What To Know
- Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice at the barbecue, this easy-to-make corn salad will elevate your next gathering.
- Serve it as a side salad with grilled fish or shrimp, add it to tacos or burritos, or pack it for a refreshing lunch.
- Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for a delicious and healthy side dish, this corn salad is the perfect choice.
Corn salad is a beloved summer staple, perfect for backyard barbecues and potlucks. With its vibrant colors, sweet and savory flavors, and refreshing crunch, it’s a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice at the barbecue, this easy-to-make corn salad will elevate your next gathering.
Ingredients:
- 12 ears of fresh corn, shucked and kernels removed
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red onion, diced
- 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Prepare the corn: Remove the kernels from the cob using a sharp knife or a corn cob stripper.
2. Combine the vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the corn kernels, diced bell peppers, red onion, cilantro, basil, parsley, and mint.
3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, white wine vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
4. Combine the salad: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and stir well to combine.
5. Chill: Refrigerate the corn salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Variations:
- Add some heat: For a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the dressing.
- Swap out the herbs: If you don’t have all the herbs listed, feel free to substitute with your favorites. Oregano, thyme, and rosemary are all great options.
- Make it a main course: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to turn this salad into a satisfying meal.
Tips for the Best Corn Salad:
- Use the freshest corn possible: Fresh corn will give your salad the best flavor and texture. If you can’t find fresh corn, frozen corn will work in a pinch.
- Don’t overcook the corn: Overcooked corn will become mushy and lose its sweetness. Cook the corn just until it’s tender-crisp.
- Chill the salad thoroughly: Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld and gives the dressing a chance to thicken.
- Serve the salad cold: Corn salad is best served cold, so keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
The Perfect Pairing: Corn Salad and BBQ
Corn salad is the perfect accompaniment to any barbecue dish. Its sweet and savory flavors complement the smoky, grilled flavors of ribs, chicken, and burgers. The refreshing crunch also provides a nice contrast to the richness of the grilled meats.
A Versatile Side Dish: Beyond BBQ
While corn salad is a classic BBQ side dish, it’s also versatile enough to be enjoyed in many other ways. Serve it as a side salad with grilled fish or shrimp, add it to tacos or burritos, or pack it for a refreshing lunch.
Key Points: Elevate Your BBQ with the Ultimate Corn Salad
With its vibrant colors, refreshing flavors, and versatility, this corn salad is sure to become a staple in your summer grilling repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for a delicious and healthy side dish, this corn salad is the perfect choice. So grab some fresh corn and give it a try today!
What You Need to Learn
Q: Can I make this corn salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this corn salad up to 3 days ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Q: Can I use frozen corn?
A: Yes, you can use frozen corn in this recipe. Just thaw it completely before adding it to the salad.
Q: What other vegetables can I add to this corn salad?
A: You can add any vegetables you like to this corn salad. Some good options include tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, and black beans.
