Corn salad is a delightful dish that captures the essence of summer with its vibrant colors and fresh flavors. This recipe takes it up a notch with a tangy lime vinaigrette that adds a zesty kick to the sweet corn and crunchy vegetables. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light side dish any time of year, this corn salad is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.
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 freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Corn Salad:
- 5 ears of corn, shucked and de-silked
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 red pepper, cut into small dice
- 1 cup grape tomatoes or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 jalapeno, minced, seeds and veins removed
- 1/2 cup feta cheese
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
Instructions:
- Prepare Lime Vinaigrette:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, honey, ground cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until emulsified. Set aside.
- Cook Corn:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the shucked and de-silked ears of corn to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the corn is tender. Remove the corn from the pot and let it cool slightly.
- Cut Corn Kernels:
- Once the corn has cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the kernels off the cob. Place the corn kernels in a large mixing bowl.
- Prepare Salad Ingredients:
- In the same mixing bowl with the corn kernels, add the sugar, lemon juice, diced red pepper, halved grape or cherry tomatoes, chopped cilantro, chopped green onions, minced jalapeno, crumbled feta cheese, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Toss with Vinaigrette:
- Pour the prepared lime vinaigrette over the salad ingredients in the mixing bowl. Gently toss everything together until well combined and evenly coated with the vinaigrette.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, give the salad a quick toss to redistribute the dressing. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- Fresh Corn: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh ears of corn when making this salad. Look for ears that have bright green husks and kernels that feel plump and firm.
- Adjust Heat: If you prefer a spicier salad, leave the seeds and veins in the jalapeno or add an extra pinch of cayenne pepper to the vinaigrette. For a milder option, remove the seeds and veins from the jalapeno and reduce the amount of cayenne pepper.
- Make-Ahead: This corn salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. The flavors will continue to develop as it chills, making it even more delicious when served.
Serving Suggestions:
- Barbecue Side Dish: Serve this corn salad alongside grilled meats such as chicken, steak, or shrimp for a refreshing and colorful side dish that complements the smoky flavors of the barbecue.
- Taco Night: Use this corn salad as a filling for tacos or as a topping for nachos for a fresh and flavorful twist on your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes.
- Lunch Option: Enjoy this corn salad on its own as a light and satisfying lunch, or pair it with a piece of crusty bread or a side of quinoa for added protein and fiber.
With its bright flavors and vibrant colors, this corn salad with zesty lime vinaigrette is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, attending a potluck, or simply looking for a light and refreshing side dish, this salad is the perfect choice. Bursting with sweet corn, crunchy vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing, it’s a celebration of summer in every bite. So, gather your ingredients, whip up a batch of this delicious corn salad, and get ready to savor the flavors of the season!
