This Easy Crack Corn Salad is a summer treat that’s as fun to eat as it is to make! With sweet corn, crunchy veggies, and a tangy dressing, it’s perfect for picnics or barbecues.
Who doesn’t love a good corn salad? It’s colorful, refreshing, and sure to impress your friends—just remember to save some for yourself! 😄 I love pairing it with grilled meats for a delicious meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn on the cob is sweet and delightful for this recipe. If it’s out of season, frozen corn works perfectly too; just thaw it and drain any excess moisture.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a nice crunch and flavor. For a healthier option, turkey bacon or even smoked tempeh slices can be used as alternatives. Both give great taste!
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: This combo creates a creamy dressing. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use low-fat mayo.
Green Onions: These add color and a fresh crunch. If you don’t have them, red or white onions can be used, but use them sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
Herbs: If you’re not a fan of parsley or cilantro, you can skip it or try dill instead; it pairs nicely with corn!
How Do I Cook Fresh Corn for This Salad?
Cooking fresh corn is straightforward! Follow these steps for perfectly tender kernels:
- First, husk the corn and remove all the silks.
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. This is crucial for a good cook!
- Add the corn and let it boil for just about 2-3 minutes. You want it tender but still crisp.
- Remove the corn and let it cool. This helps with handling and slicing off the kernels later.
Once cooled, slice off the kernels for your salad, and enjoy the burst of sweet flavor they add!
Easy Crack Corn Salad Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 6 ears of corn or 4 cups frozen)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
- 4 green onions, sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious corn salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator before serving. Overall, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a summer get-together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add the corn and cook for 2-3 minutes until it’s just tender. Drain the corn and let it cool completely. If you’re using frozen corn, simply thaw it and drain any excess moisture.
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled corn, crispy chopped bacon, and sliced green onions. These ingredients together create a wonderful base for the salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until everything is smooth and well combined. This will add that creamy, tangy flavor!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the corn mixture and toss gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated. It should look delicious already!
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste! Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you’d like, toss in some fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
6. Chill the Salad:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows all those yummy flavors to meld together, making the salad even better!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your crack corn salad chilled as a refreshing side dish, perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or gatherings. It’s creamy, tangy, and full of smoky bacon flavor—everyone will love it!
This crack corn salad is not only easy to make but also a hit among friends and family. Enjoy your summer with this delightful dish!
FAQ for Easy Crack Corn Salad Recipe
Can I Use Canned Corn Instead of Fresh or Frozen?
Yes, you can use canned corn for this recipe! Just be sure to drain and rinse it well to remove excess sodium and preserve the best flavor. About 4 cups of canned corn will work perfectly in place of fresh or frozen corn.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon. You can add some smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor, or use crispy roasted chickpeas for some crunch instead.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Absolutely! You can make the salad a day in advance. Just keep it stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad often tastes even better after sitting for a while as the flavors meld together!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
If stored properly in an airtight container, leftovers will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving again, and you’re good to go!
