This Bright and Zesty Corn Salad is bursting with flavor! It’s made with sweet corn, crunchy peppers, and a tangy dressing that adds a refreshing kick.
This salad is perfect for summer picnics or just a light meal. It’s quick to whip up, and I love how it adds color and happiness to my table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn is best for this salad as it adds sweetness and crunch. If it’s not available, frozen corn works just fine. Just make sure to thaw it properly and sauté it for extra flavor.
Jalapeño Pepper: This gives a nice kick! If you want less heat, try using a green bell pepper instead. For more spice, add some of the seeds back in.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor. If you’re not a fan, you could use parsley, although the taste will slightly change.
Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese gives a salty kick. Feta is a great substitute if you can’t find cotija, adding a similar richness.
How Can I Get the Perfect Char on My Corn?
Charring corn is essential for flavor! It brings out the sweetness and adds a nice depth to the dish. To do it right:
- Use medium-high heat for better browning. A grill or cast-iron skillet works great.
- Keep the corn moving to prevent burning, but allow it to sit for a moment for those lovely char marks.
- Cook until lightly blackened and tender, about 5-7 minutes, then cut kernels off.
Don’t rush this step, as it’s what makes the salad shine!
Bright and Zesty Corn Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 ears of fresh corn (or about 3 cups frozen corn, thawed)
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)
For the Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lime, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and cooking. If you use frozen corn, the time may reduce slightly. Overall, it’s a quick and easy salad that’s perfect for a fresh side dish or light meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Corn:
If using fresh corn, start by charring the corn kernels in a dry skillet or on the grill over medium-high heat. Cook until the corn is slightly blackened and tender, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, cut the kernels off the cob. If you’re opting for frozen corn, simply sauté it in olive oil until lightly browned.
2. Mixing the Ingredients:
Transfer the cooked corn to a large bowl. Next, add the chopped jalapeño, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro to the bowl. These ingredients will add freshness and a zesty bite to your salad!
3. Making the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This dressing will brighten up the salad and bring the flavors together beautifully.
4. Combining Everything:
Now, pour the dressing over the corn mixture in the large bowl. Toss everything gently until well combined. Then, fold in the crumbled cotija cheese. Be careful not to break up the cheese too much, as you want those lovely crumbles of flavor!
5. Seasoning and Serving:
Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add a bit more salt, lime juice, or chili powder to suit your taste. Garnish with extra cilantro leaves and a light sprinkle of chili powder for an extra pop of color.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your Bright and Zesty Corn Salad chilled or at room temperature. This salad makes an amazing side dish for summer barbecues or a refreshing meal on its own. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Bright and Zesty Corn Salad
Can I Use Canned Corn Instead of Fresh or Frozen?
Yes, you can use canned corn! Drain and rinse it before adding it to the salad. However, for the best flavor and texture, fresh or frozen corn is preferred.
How Can I Make This Salad Spicier?
If you want to amp up the heat, consider adding more jalapeño, or include diced serrano peppers. You could also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the dressing for an extra kick!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! It actually tastes even better after marinating for a while. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Just hold off on adding the cheese until right before serving to keep it fresh.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may settle a bit!
