A refreshing and simple dish, corn salad is perfect for summer gatherings. With sweet corn, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing, it’s both delicious and healthy.
Corn salad is a bright, crisp, and refreshing dish that captures the essence of summer in every bite. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue, bringing it to a picnic, or enjoying it as a light side dish on a warm day, corn salad is always a hit. Bursting with sweet corn, crunchy vegetables, and zesty flavors, it’s a simple yet satisfying way to make the most of seasonal ingredients.
At the heart of the salad is fresh corn, which brings natural sweetness and a juicy crunch. Whether grilled, boiled, or cut straight from the cob, corn adds a sunny, golden pop to the bowl and pairs well with a wide range of ingredients. Red bell peppers and cherry tomatoes bring color and a mild sweetness, while red onions or scallions add a bit of sharpness and depth. For creaminess, you can mix in avocado or crumbled cheese like feta or cotija, which adds richness and a slight tang.
What ties it all together is the dressing, often a blend of olive oil, lime or lemon juice, and a touch of honey or vinegar. This simple vinaigrette enhances the freshness of the vegetables without overpowering them. Fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, or parsley add a final layer of flavor and brightness, making each bite feel light and balanced.
Corn salad is incredibly versatile. You can serve it chilled or at room temperature, on its own or as a topping for grilled meats, tacos, or even mixed into greens. It’s easy to make ahead of time, and the flavors only get better as they sit and mingle. With its vibrant colors, fresh taste, and simple ingredients, corn salad is a summertime staple that’s both easy to love and endlessly adaptable.
Ingredients
- 2 cups corn kernels fresh or canned
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup cucumber diced
- 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed
- 1/4 cup cilantro chopped
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Drizzle the olive oil and lime juice over the vegetables.
- Add the chopped cilantro and toss everything together until evenly mixed.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Nutrition
Corn salad it not a salad if it don’t have lettuce bro. Just saying.
I get what you’re saying, but salads can be more than just lettuce! This corn salad looks refreshing.
But why does it need lettuce? This recipe sounds yum and veggie-packed! Who needs lettuce anyway?
I made this last night but forgot the lime juice. Still tasted good.
For me, too much cilantro. I dont like the taste. What can I use instead?
You can try parsley instead! It has a milder taste and works well in salads.
Bless my heart, I forgot the olive oil! 😅 Still turned out great though, but I wouldn’t recommend skipping it!
Corn salad? Is that even a meal? I prefer mine with meat! 🍗
Easy to make but my kids didn’t like it. They said too many veggies.
Quick, easy, and healthy! Just the way I like it!
Whats the point of this dish? You just mix stuff in a bowl!
Looks yummy! Can I use frozen corn? Don’t wanna buy fresh, too much work! 😜
I thought it was too bland. Added some chili powder and it was better, but still needs more seasoning.
I added some feta cheese and it made it even better! Yummy!
5 stars! Perfect for summer BBQs. My guests loved it!
Corn in salad? Isn’t that gonna be too sweet? I prefer my salads more savory.
This sounds delicious! I can’t wait to try it at my next family dinner.
Not sure what all the hype is about. It’s just corn and tomatoes. Needs more flavor.
My sister makes a version with jalapenos and it’s way better. Just my opinion. 🤷♂️
This corn salad is amazing! So fresh and delicious. Definitely making it again!
Simple and fresh! Perfect for summer! I’ll think about adding avocados next time!
Adding avocados sounds great! They’d make it even creamier. I love this salad! 🍅🥑
Simple? I dunno, seems kinda bland. Maybe it’s better with more spices or something.
This corn salad is sooo good! Made it for a picnic and everyone loved it! Will definitely make it again!
Sounds delicious! I’m glad everyone enjoyed it, I might try this for my next family gathering!
Eh, my kids didn’t even touch it. Guess they’re just not into salad? Gave it a try tho! 🌽
Maybe they just prefer cooked veggies? My kids love corn but not in salad form. 🤷♀️