Description
This easy and flavorful corn salad combines fresh corn, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, colorful bell peppers, and zesty lime dressing for a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 3 cups Fresh Corn (sweet, fresh corn kernels, grilled or boiled)
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup Cucumber (diced)
- 1/4 cup Red Onion (finely chopped)
- 1 cup Bell Pepper (diced, red, yellow, or orange)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro (chopped)
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons Lime Juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (extra-virgin)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Corn: If using fresh corn, grill or boil for 5-7 minutes until tender. Allow to cool and cut the kernels off the cob. If using frozen corn, thaw completely and drain any excess water.
- Halve Cherry Tomatoes: Wash and cut the cherry tomatoes in half for added juiciness and texture.
- Dice Cucumber: Wash the cucumber thoroughly and dice into small cubes for a crunchy bite.
- Chop Red Onion: Finely chop the red onion. Soak in cold water for 10 minutes if the flavor is too strong, then drain well.
- Dice Bell Pepper: Wash and dice the bell pepper into bite-sized pieces, using red, yellow, or orange varieties for color.
- Combine Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and diced bell peppers to mix evenly.
- Add Cilantro: Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro to infuse the salad with a bright herbal flavor.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lime juice and extra-virgin olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture, then toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Allow Flavors to Meld: Let the salad sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
- Final Taste and Serve: Taste the salad and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing, flavorful side or light main dish.
Notes
- Fresh corn can be substituted with thawed frozen corn for convenience.
- Soaking red onion in cold water reduces sharpness and bitterness.
- The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days but is best enjoyed fresh.
- Optional add-ins: avocado, black beans, or feta cheese for extra creaminess and protein.
- Make sure to toss gently to maintain the integrity of the diced vegetables.
