CORN SALAD

By deiv3 on July 15, 2024

Fresh Corn Salad with Lime Vinaigrette

Introduction

This delectable corn salad brings together a vibrant mix of fresh corn, sweet red bell peppers, sun-ripened tomatoes, cilantro, minced jalapeño, chopped scallions, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a lightly sweetened lime vinaigrette. This recipe is perfect as a side dish for summer barbecues, picnics, or any time you crave a fresh, flavorful, and colorful salad. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner, this corn salad is simple to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

Lime Vinaigrette

3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1/2 tablespoon honey
1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon onion powder
1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
1/8 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil

Corn Salad

5 ears of corn, shucked and de-silked
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 red bell pepper, diced small
1 cup grape tomatoes or cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 jalapeño, minced (seeds and veins removed)
1/2 cup feta cheese
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Lime Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey, ground cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil, whisking continuously until the vinaigrette is well blended.

Step 2: Cook the Corn

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
Add the sugar and lime juice to the boiling water; stir to dissolve.
Carefully add the corn to the boiling water, cover the pot, turn off the heat, and let the corn sit for 10 minutes.
Plunge the cooked corn into ice-cold water to stop the cooking process.
Once the corn has cooled, cut the kernels from the cob.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked corn kernels, diced red peppers, halved grape tomatoes, chopped cilantro, chopped green onions, minced jalapeños, feta cheese, and thinly sliced red onion.
Drizzle the salad with the prepared lime vinaigrette and toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Tips for the Perfect Corn Salad

Use Fresh Corn: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh corn on the cob. If it's not in season, frozen corn is a good alternative.
Don't Overcook the Corn: Overcooking can make the corn mushy. Letting it sit in hot water for 10 minutes is enough to cook it perfectly.
Make-Ahead Vinaigrette: Save time by making the lime vinaigrette a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it.
Adjust Heat Level: If you prefer a milder salad, reduce the amount of jalapeño or remove it altogether. For more heat, leave in some of the seeds.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 112 kcal
Total Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 200mg
Total Carbohydrates: 13g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 3g

FAQs

What is Corn Salad?

Corn salad is a light, refreshing dish made primarily with fresh or cooked corn kernels. It's often combined with a variety of vegetables and dressed with a vinaigrette or creamy dressing.

Can I Use Canned Corn?

While fresh corn is recommended for the best flavor, you can use canned corn in a pinch. Make sure to drain and rinse it well before using.

How Long Can I Store Corn Salad?

Corn salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld over time, but for the best texture, it's recommended to consume it fresh.

Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make this salad a few hours ahead of time. However, for the freshest taste and texture, it's best to add the vinaigrette just before serving.

What Can I Serve with Corn Salad?

Corn salad pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a larger salad spread. It's also great as a topping for tacos or as a dip with tortilla chips.

Conclusion

This fresh corn salad with lime vinaigrette is a delightful addition to any meal. It's bursting with flavors and textures, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Enjoy the vibrant colors and the harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes in every bite!