5-minute corn salad: how to elevate your meals with minimal effort

Summertime brings an abundance of fresh and flavorful produce, and sweet corn is certainly a star among them. Its sweet, juicy kernels are a delight to eat on their own, but they also shine in a variety of salads. If you’re looking for a refreshing and satisfying side dish or a light summer meal, a sweet corn salad is the perfect choice.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 6 ears fresh sweet corn (about 4 cups kernels)
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cucumber, chopped
• 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Dressing Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

How to Do Sweet Corn Salad: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Corn:

• Remove the husks and silks from the corn.
• Use a sharp knife to cut the kernels off the cob.

2. Chop the Vegetables:

• Dice the bell peppers, cucumber, and red onion.

3. Combine the Ingredients:

• In a large bowl, combine the corn kernels, chopped vegetables, cilantro, and basil.

4. Make the Dressing:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

5. Add the Dressing to the Salad:

• Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.

6. Add Optional Ingredients:

• If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the salad.

7. Chill and Serve:

• Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend and the salad to chill.

Variations

• Grilled Corn Salad: Grill the corn kernels before adding them to the salad for a smoky flavor.
• Avocado Corn Salad: Add diced avocado to the salad for creaminess and healthy fats.
• Black Bean Corn Salad: Add canned black beans to the salad for extra protein and texture.
• Spicy Corn Salad: Add diced jalapeño or cayenne pepper to the salad for a kick of heat.
• Fruit Corn Salad: Add diced strawberries, blueberries, or pineapple to the salad for a sweet and refreshing twist.

Tips for a Perfect Sweet Corn Salad

• Use fresh, sweet corn for the best flavor.
• Cut the corn kernels close to the cob to get the most juice.
• Don’t overdress the salad, as this can make it soggy.
• Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
• Serve the salad with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a complete meal.

In a nutshell: Savor the Summer with a Refreshing Sweet Corn Salad

A sweet corn salad is a versatile and delicious summer dish that can be enjoyed as a side or a light meal. With its fresh, flavorful ingredients and customizable variations, you can create a salad that perfectly suits your taste. So, gather your ingredients and follow these step-by-step instructions to savor the summer with this refreshing and satisfying dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen corn in this salad?
A: Yes, you can use frozen corn, but fresh corn will provide the best flavor. If using frozen corn, thaw it completely before adding it to the salad.

Q: How long will this salad keep in the refrigerator?
A: The salad will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the salad up to 24 hours ahead of time. Just keep it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.