Why You’ll Love Our Corn Salad!

Nothing says summer like fresh, sweet corn on the cob, and this corn salad brings out the very best in it! The secret lies in grilling the corn, which imparts a delightful smoky char that enhances its natural sweetness.

This salad is ideal for potlucks, barbecues, and outdoor gatherings. It pairs beautifully with grilled proteins, making it the perfect accompaniment to dishes like tofu, salmon, chicken, shrimp, or steak. With its refreshing blend of flavors, you’re bound to keep coming back for more!

Corn Salad Recipe Ingredients

• Fresh Corn: Choose sweet corn with firm kernels for the best flavor.
• Crispy Radishes: They add a refreshing crunch and a hint of pepperiness.
• Lime: Freshly squeezed lime juice, or lemon juice if that’s what you have on hand.
• Red Onion: For a sharp and aromatic flavor. If you prefer something milder, green onions work well too.
• Fresh Herbs: Use a mix of cilantro, basil, or dill for an added burst of flavor.
• Avocado: For creaminess. Pro tip: Add the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh!

How to Make the Best Corn Salad

1. Grill the Corn

   Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the corn directly on the grill, turning every 3 minutes until it is lightly charred on all sides.

   When done, let the corn cool before cutting off the kernels. For best results, lay the ear of corn horizontally on the counter and slice downwards carefully; this prevents kernels from flying everywhere!

2. Prepare the Dressing

   In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, extra-virgin olive oil, kosher salt, and pepper. Make sure to use a big bowl since this is where you’ll toss your salad!

3. Assemble Your Salad

   Start by adding the red onion to the dressing; letting it sit for a minute will help mellow out its flavor. Then, toss in the grilled corn and fresh herbs. Give everything a good mix before gently folding in the avocado.

4. Taste and Adjust

   Finally, taste your salad and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like a bit of a kick, feel free to sprinkle in some chili flakes or cayenne pepper!

Corn Salad Variations

• Add Beans: Toss in some black beans for extra protein and a hearty texture.
• Mix in Other Veggies: Try adding halved cherry tomatoes, diced bell peppers, or minced jalapeños for an additional veggie boost.
• Add Cheese: Crumbled feta or cotija cheese makes for a delicious addition!
• Char Corn on the Stove: No grill? No problem! Use a cast-iron skillet or even char the corn over a gas burner on your stovetop.

Chef’s Tips

1. Add Avocado Just Before Serving: This will help prevent it from browning and keep your salad looking fresh.
2. Meal Prepping: You can mix the dressing in advance and grill the corn beforehand, keeping everything in separate containers until it’s time to serve.
3. Tame the Onions: Let the diced onion sit in the dressing for a few minutes before adding the other ingredients; it reduces the sharpness.
4. Save the Corn Cobs: These can be added to your next veggie stock for extra flavor—you can even freeze them!

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to one day, or keep the avocado separate until serving to maintain freshness. When stored in an airtight container without the avocado, this corn salad can last up to four days.

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant salad makes for a light summer lunch, a glorious appetizer with crunchy tortilla chips, or can serve as a delightful side dish alongside any grilled protein. The possibilities are endless—enjoy!