This Corn Salad is a vibrant, veggie-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick side for dinner, this salad is light, fresh, and ready to serve in under 15 minutes. The combination of juicy corn, cherry tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers makes it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal produce!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This corn salad can be made in just 12 minutes from start to finish.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh corn and vegetables ensures maximum flavor and nutrition.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side dish for any meal or a light lunch on its own.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or dressings to make it your own.
• Healthy Option: With low calories and high freshness, this salad fits perfectly into your healthy eating plan.

Tools and Preparation

To make this corn salad, you’ll need a few essential tools that will help you create the dish effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without mess.
• Skillet: Cooking the corn in a skillet enhances its flavor by giving it a nice char.
• Whisk: A whisk helps mix the dressing thoroughly for an even distribution of flavors.

Ingredients

This vibrant corn salad is veggie-packed, lightly dressed for a fresh taste, and ready to brighten your plate in under 15 minutes!

For the Salad

• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1½ cups corn (fresh or thawed frozen corn)
• 1½ cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
• ½ cup cucumber (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil (minced)
• ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons Italian dressing (optional)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Corn Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lime juice, and salt in a small bowl. Set aside while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Corn

In a skillet over medium heat, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the corn and cook until tender, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once cooked, pour the corn into a large bowl and let it cool slightly. Add halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped cucumber, and minced basil. Mix well.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the mixture until ready to serve. Just before serving, drizzle with your homemade dressing or Italian dressing if using. Top with crumbled feta cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Corn Salad!

How to Serve Corn Salad

Corn salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether as a refreshing side or a light main course, it pairs well with many meals. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal.
• Pair it with tacos for a fresh and crunchy contrast.

In a Wrap

• Use corn salad as a filling for wraps, adding protein like grilled shrimp or beans.
• Combine it with avocado and lettuce for added creaminess.

On Top of Greens

• Nestle corn salad on a bed of mixed greens for a colorful salad bowl.
• Add nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.

With Tortilla Chips

• Serve corn salad as a dip with tortilla chips for a fun appetizer.
• Drizzle with lime juice to enhance the flavors.

As Stuffed Avocados

• Hollow out avocados and fill them with corn salad for an elegant presentation.
• Top with additional feta cheese or nuts for texture.

How to Perfect Corn Salad

To make your corn salad truly shine, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure every bite is packed with flavor and freshness.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and ripe tomatoes will elevate the taste of your salad.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dressing before adding it to the salad. Adjust salt and lime juice according to your preference.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the corn salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
• Experiment with Herbs: Try adding different herbs, like cilantro or parsley, to give your salad a unique twist.
• Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken, black beans, or chickpeas to turn this side dish into a filling meal.

Best Side Dishes for Corn Salad

Corn salad pairs beautifully with many sides, making it perfect for any meal occasion. Here are some great options to complement its vibrant flavors.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add smoky flavors that balance the sweetness of the corn.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf offers a hearty base and works well with the lightness of corn salad.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes provide satisfying crunch and pair well with the fresh tastes.
4. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread brings comfort and warmth alongside this refreshing dish.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the crispness of corn salad.
6. Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit salad brightens up your meal while keeping it light and refreshing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making corn salad, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using canned corn instead of fresh or frozen can lead to a less vibrant flavor. Opt for fresh or thawed frozen corn for the best taste and texture.
• Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more gradually if needed.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season your salad properly can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust salt and lime juice as necessary before serving.
• Not Allowing Cooling Time: Serving the salad warm can affect its freshness. Let the corn cool slightly before mixing it with other ingredients.
• Forgetting Texture Variety: Only using one type of vegetable can result in a dull dish. Incorporate different textures, like crunchy cucumbers and juicy tomatoes, for a more exciting salad.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Freezing Corn Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it changes the texture of the vegetables.
• If you must freeze, consider only freezing the cooked corn and adding fresh ingredients later.

Reheating Corn Salad

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the corn salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed. Avoid cooking too long to maintain freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Corn Salad?

Corn salad is a refreshing dish made with corn, vegetables, and dressing. It’s perfect as a side or light meal during summer.

Can I customize my Corn Salad?

Absolutely! You can add other ingredients such as bell peppers, avocado, or black beans for added flavor and nutrition.

How long does Corn Salad last?

Corn salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when kept in an airtight container.

Is Corn Salad healthy?

Yes! This corn salad is packed with fresh veggies and healthy fats from olive oil, making it nutritious and delicious.

Final Thoughts

This vibrant corn salad is not only quick to prepare but also highly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or proteins. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a light meal any time of year. Don’t hesitate to try different variations that suit your taste!

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Corn Salad

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 12 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

This Corn Salad is a delightful, colorful dish bursting with fresh flavors, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or seeking a quick side for dinner, this salad can be ready in just 12 minutes. Juicy corn combines beautifully with halved cherry tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers, creating not only a delicious but also visually stunning dish. Enhanced with a zesty lime dressing and topped with crumbled feta cheese, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal produce while keeping meals light and nutritious.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1½ cups corn (fresh or thawed frozen)
• 1½ cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
• ½ cup cucumber (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil (minced)
• ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
• Optional: 2 tablespoons Italian dressing

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Instructions

1. Whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lime juice, and salt in a small bowl for the dressing.
2. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the corn for 5–7 minutes until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked corn, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped cucumber, and minced basil.
4. Chill the mixture before serving. Drizzle with your dressing and top with crumbled feta cheese if desired.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding bell peppers or black beans. Adjust seasoning by tasting your dressing before mixing it into the salad.