This corn salad is a burst of color and flavor! With sweet corn, crunchy veggies, and fresh herbs, it’s perfect for summer picnics or a quick side dish.
What I love most is how refreshing it is! Toss everything together, and you’ve got a tasty dish that’s ready in minutes. Perfect for when you want something easy and delicious! 🌽🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn is ideal for this salad! When you cut it off the cob, it stays sweet and juicy. If fresh isn’t available, frozen corn works too—just make sure to thaw it completely.
Herbs: I love using cilantro, parsley, and mint, as they add a delightful freshness. If you’re not a fan, swap with basil or even dill for a different flavor profile.
Jalapeño: It adds a nice kick! If you prefer mild heat, leave it out or substitute with diced bell pepper. For more spice, try adding a serrano pepper!
Honey or Agave: This sweetener balances the acidity of lime. Maple syrup can be a great vegan alternative if that’s your preference.
How Do You Achieve the Best Flavor in Your Corn Salad?
The key to a flavorful corn salad is letting it sit after mixing. This allows the dressing to soak into the veggies. For the best results:
- Make sure to season the salad well with salt and pepper to bring out the flavors.
- Let it chill for at least 20 minutes, but feel free to let it sit longer in the fridge—up to a few hours works great!
- Give it a taste test before serving. Adjust the lime juice or sweetener based on how tangy or sweet you want it.
With just a little time, you’ll have a delicious salad that everyone will love! Enjoy! 🌽🥗
Bright and Zesty Corn Salad with Fresh Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4-5 ears of corn) or 3 cups frozen corn, thawed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for a bit of heat)
For the Dressing:
- Juice of 2 limes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing corn salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus a little time to chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes. So in total, you’re looking at roughly 35 minutes before it’s ready to serve! Perfect for a quick and tasty side dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the corn ears and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they’re tender-crisp. Drain the corn and let it cool. After it’s cooled down, carefully cut the kernels off the cobs and set aside.
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn kernels, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, and finely chopped red onion. These colorful veggies will add freshness and crunch!
3. Add Fresh Herbs and Jalapeño:
Add the chopped cilantro, parsley, mint, and jalapeño (if you want a little heat) into the bowl with the veggies. Toss everything gently with a spoon to combine all those delicious flavors.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the juice of the limes, olive oil, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper until everything is well blended.
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the salad and give it another gentle toss to make sure all the ingredients are nicely coated with that zesty flavor!
6. Taste Test Time:
Give your salad a taste, and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or lime juice based on your preferences. It’s all about getting it just right for your taste buds!
7. Chill Out:
Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 20 minutes. This step is important because it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully!
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Once chilled, your Bright and Zesty Corn Salad is ready to serve! Present it chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish that’s perfect for summer meals. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Canned Corn Instead of Fresh or Frozen?
Yes, you can use canned corn in a pinch! Just make sure to drain and rinse the corn thoroughly before adding it to the salad to reduce the sodium content and improve flavor.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a day ahead. However, it’s best to add the dressing right before serving to keep the vegetables crisp and fresh. If you’ve already mixed it, stir gently before serving to ensure everything is well combined.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but the vegetables may soften a bit. Give it a quick toss before serving again!
Can I Substitute the Herbs?
Yes! Feel free to swap out the herbs based on your preference. Basil, dill, or chives would make great alternatives that still add fresh, vibrant flavors to the salad.
