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Fresh Viral Summer Corn Salad Recipe Easy 5-Minute Perfect Side Dish

fresh summer corn salad - featured image

A quick and easy summer corn salad bursting with sweet corn, zesty lime, fresh herbs, and a hint of spice. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or a light, refreshing side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 56 ears of corn), cut off the cob
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (or parsley as a substitute)
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (optional)
  • Optional add-ins: 1/2 avocado diced, crumbled feta cheese

Instructions

  1. Prep the corn: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the kernels off the cob. You should have about 4 cups (about 5-6 ears). If using frozen corn, thaw completely and drain any excess water.
  2. Chop the veggies: Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the red bell pepper, finely chop the red onion, and roughly chop the fresh cilantro (or parsley). If you want a milder onion flavor, soak the chopped onion in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain well.
  3. Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  4. Combine everything: In a large mixing bowl, add the corn kernels, tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, and cilantro. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently but thoroughly.
  5. Optional add-ins: If using avocado or crumbled feta, fold them in carefully now to avoid mashing. Add avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and green.
  6. Chill and serve: Let the salad sit in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to let flavors marry, or serve immediately. Taste again before serving and adjust salt or lime juice if needed.

Notes

Use fresh corn when possible for best sweetness and texture. If using frozen corn, thaw and drain well to avoid watery salad. Soaking red onion in cold water reduces sharpness. Add avocado just before serving to keep it fresh. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Toss dressing separately if transporting to keep salad crisp.

Nutrition

Keywords: summer corn salad, fresh corn salad, easy side dish, quick salad, viral recipe, lime corn salad, healthy summer salad