Refreshing Corn Salad with Zesty Lime Vinaigrette
When sweet corn is in season, there’s no better way to enjoy its fresh, vibrant flavors than in a delicious corn salad. Bursting with colors and textures, this recipe combines juicy kernels of corn with crisp vegetables and a zesty lime vinaigrette. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a light and refreshing side dish, this corn salad is sure to impress. Join us as we explore how to make this flavorful dish, along with some helpful tips, variations, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Ingredients:
Lime Vinaigrette:
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/2 tablespoon honey
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Corn Salad:
- 5 ears of corn, shucked and de-silked
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 red pepper, cut into small dice
- 1 cup grape tomatoes or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 jalapeno, minced (seeds and veins removed)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
Instructions:
- Prepare the Lime Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until the vinaigrette is well combined. Set aside.
- Cook the Corn: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shucked corn and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender. Drain the corn and let it cool slightly.
- Cut the Corn Kernels: Once the corn has cooled, stand each ear of corn upright on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to carefully slice down the length of the cob, removing the kernels.
- Prepare the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn kernels, sugar, lemon juice, red pepper, tomatoes, cilantro, green onions, jalapeno, feta cheese, and red onion.
- Add the Vinaigrette: Pour the prepared lime vinaigrette over the salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the corn salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Grilled Corn Option: For added smokiness, grill the corn on the cob before cutting off the kernels. Brush the shucked corn with olive oil and grill over medium-high heat until lightly charred, then proceed with the recipe as directed.
- Vegan Variation: Omit the feta cheese or substitute it with diced avocado for a creamy, vegan-friendly alternative.
- Extra Heat: Increase the amount of minced jalapeno or add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick of heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn? A: Yes, you can use frozen corn kernels if fresh corn is not available. Simply thaw the corn before using and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: How long does this corn salad last in the refrigerator? A: This corn salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, for best results, it is recommended to enjoy it within 24 hours of preparation to maintain its freshness and crispness.
Q: Can I make the lime vinaigrette in advance? A: Absolutely! The lime vinaigrette can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use. Give it a good shake or whisk before dressing the salad.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto-Friendly Option:
- Substitute the sugar in the salad with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia to reduce the carb content.
Low-Carb Twist:
- Replace the corn with grilled zucchini or roasted cauliflower for a low-carb alternative that’s equally delicious.
In conclusion, this Corn Salad with Zesty Lime Vinaigrette is a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that will brighten up any meal. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at a barbecue or enjoying it as a light lunch on a hot summer day, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its vibrant colors and refreshing taste, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the bounty of summer produce. So go ahead, whip up a batch of this irresistible corn salad, and savor the taste of summer with every bite!