Corn Salad

Name: Corn Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 large ears of fresh corn; 1 ½ cups diced bell pepper (red and green); 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved); 1 cup English cucumber (diced); ½ cup red onions (finely diced); 1/3 cup fresh cilantro (roughly chopped); 3/4 cup fresh Cotija cheese; 3 tablespoons avocado oil; ¼ cup lime juice; 2 tablespoons red apple vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; salt; black pepper; cumin; garlic powder; chili powder

Published: August 24, 2025

by Saphira

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients: The use of fresh corn and colorful veggies makes this salad not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of total time, you can whip up this salad in no time, making it an excellent choice for last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Dish: This corn salad pairs well with various main dishes, perfect for any barbecue or family meal.
Healthy Snack: Packed with nutritious ingredients, it’s a great option for a healthy snack that satisfies without the guilt.
Customizable Flavor: You can easily adjust the spices and ingredients according to your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Corn Salad, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure the process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Sharp knife
Mixing bowl
Container with lid

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: A big pot allows you to boil multiple ears of corn at once, ensuring even cooking.
Colander: Useful for draining the corn after boiling, preventing overcooking by rinsing with cold water.
Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes it easier to cut the kernels off the cob cleanly and safely.

Ingredients

This easy Corn Salad recipe is loaded with fresh Mexican flavors and is tossed in the most flavorful dressing! It makes a perfect side dish for a potluck or healthy summer snack!

Ingredients:
– 4 large ears of fresh corn (see notes)
– 1 ½ cups diced bell pepper (I use red and green)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved)
– 1 cup English cucumber (diced)
– ½ cup red onions (finely diced)
– 1/3 cup fresh cilantro (roughly chopped)
– 3/4 cup fresh Cotija cheese (see notes for subs)
– 3 tablespoons avocado oil (or extra virgin olive oil)
– ¼ cup lime juice (can sub lemon juice)
– 2 tablespoons red apple vinegar
– 1 Tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon EACH: salt, dried parsley
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ¼ teaspoon EACH: cumin, garlic powder, chili powder

How to Make Corn Salad

Step 1: Prep Work

Note: If preparing a day ahead, consider adding the dressing/cheese just before serving.
Combine dressing ingredients in a container with a lid and shake to combine. Refrigerate while you cut/dice remaining ingredients for the salad. I like to place the veggies on paper towels to absorb excess moisture for extra fresh/crisp results.

Step 2: Cook the Corn

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once a boil is reached, salt the water generously. (I use 2 heaping Tbsp. kosher salt.) The salt flavors the corn and brings out its natural sweetness.
Add the corn and let it boil for 4 minutes. Set a timer to ensure you don’t overcook it.
Transfer the corn to a colander and rinse it with cold water until the cobs are fully cooled.

Step 3: Make the Salad

Cut the kernels from the cob. (I place the cob flat-side-down and slide a sharp knife down the side.) Transfer to a large bowl along with remaining salad ingredients. Toss to combine.
Shake the dressing again and pour it over the salad. Toss until well combined.
Serve immediately or cover and chill for up to 1 day.

Enjoy your refreshing Corn Salad as a delightful side dish or nutritious snack!

How to Serve Corn Salad

Corn Salad is a versatile dish that can brighten up any meal. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a casual family dinner, this salad pairs well with many dishes and can be served in various ways.

As a Side Dish

Perfect alongside grilled meats for a refreshing contrast.
Complements tacos or burritos, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

In Tacos

Use Corn Salad as a topping for fish or shrimp tacos.
Adds a crunchy texture and vibrant colors to your meal.

On a Bed of Greens

Serve Corn Salad on top of mixed greens for a light lunch.
Drizzle with extra dressing for added flavor.

As an Appetizer

Offer Corn Salad in small cups at parties for easy serving.
Pair with tortilla chips for a delicious dip.

How to Perfect Corn Salad

To achieve the best Corn Salad, consider these simple yet effective tips to enhance the flavors and textures of your dish.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and ripe vegetables will make your salad taste vibrant and crisp.
Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
Adjust Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to tweak the spices according to your palate; add more lime juice or salt if needed.
Add Texture: Incorporate nuts or seeds for an extra crunch that complements the soft veggies.
Experiment with Herbs: Try different herbs like basil or mint for unique flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Corn Salad

Corn Salad is not only delicious on its own but also pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some tasty options to serve alongside it.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken breasts seasoned with herbs make an excellent protein complement.
Pulled Pork: Tender pulled pork adds a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with the freshness of Corn Salad.
Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf provides heartiness while keeping the meal healthy.
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies add depth and contrast in both flavor and appearance.
Mexican Street Corn: For corn lovers, serve this cheesy, spicy version as a delightful duo.
Fish Tacos: Lightly battered fish tacos pair beautifully, balancing flavors from the sea and garden.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making corn salad can be simple, but certain mistakes can lead to a less than perfect dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

Overcooking the Corn: Boiling the corn for too long can make it mushy. Aim for just 4 minutes to keep it tender and sweet.
Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using canned or frozen corn might save time, but it won’t give you the same freshness and flavor as fresh corn. Always opt for fresh corn when possible.
Not Letting It Chill: Serving corn salad immediately means missing out on flavor melding. Allow it to chill for at least 30 minutes after mixing for maximum taste.
Ignoring Seasoning: Not seasoning your dressing properly can lead to bland flavors. Be generous with salt and spices to enhance the overall taste of your corn salad.
Forgetting Texture: Adding too many watery ingredients like tomatoes without draining them can make the salad soggy. Make sure to dry veggies before mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Keep in the fridge for up to 1 day for best freshness.

Freezing Corn Salad

Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of fresh vegetables after thawing.
If you must freeze, consider only freezing the corn, not mixed with other ingredients.

Reheating Corn Salad

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm covered for about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warmed through.
Stovetop: Gently warm on low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making corn salad that might help you enjoy this dish even more.

What is Corn Salad?

Corn salad is a refreshing dish made primarily with fresh corn, vegetables, and a flavorful dressing. It’s great as a side or snack.

Can I use frozen corn in Corn Salad?

While fresh corn is ideal for flavor and texture, you can use frozen corn if needed. Just make sure it’s thawed and drained well before mixing.

How long does Corn Salad last?

Corn salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.

What can I add to my Corn Salad?

Feel free to customize! Add black beans, avocado, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.

Is Corn Salad healthy?

Yes! With its fresh vegetables and lean dressing options, corn salad is a nutritious choice full of vitamins and minerals.

Final Thoughts

This easy Corn Salad recipe showcases vibrant flavors and textures that everyone will love. It’s versatile enough to serve at gatherings or enjoy as a healthy snack. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients!