Description
The Summer Corn Salad with Chile Lime Dressing is a refreshing and colorful dish that combines the natural sweetness of fresh corn with the zesty kick of lime and chili. It’s a perfect side dish for summer barbecues, picnics, or a light main course. The addition of fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, and avocado enhances its flavor and texture, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 6 ears of corn)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 avocado, diced
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chile Lime Dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Salad:
- Cook the Corn: If using fresh corn, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the corn and cook for about 3-5 minutes until tender. Drain and cool. Alternatively, you can grill the corn for added flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, avocado, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using). Toss gently to combine.
2. Make the Dressing:
- Whisk Together: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Assemble the Salad:
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Season to Taste: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Serve:
- Chill: Let the salad sit for about 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Enjoy: Serve chilled or at room temperature. This salad is perfect as a side dish or a light main course!
Notes
For added crunch and flavor, toss in some crushed tortilla chips or roasted pepitas just before serving. It gives the salad a fun, summery twist!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossed
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired