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Corn Salad

Corn Salad

Bright, breezy, and full of flavor, this corn salad is sweet, tangy, and just crunchy enough to make you smile with every bite. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a quick weeknight side, it’s fresh, colorful, and totally no-fuss.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 5
Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups fresh corn kernels about 6 ears — or frozen if you’re not feeling the farmer’s market trip
  • 1 red bell pepper diced (for that sweet crunch and glam color)
  • 1 small red onion finely chopped (because onion = personality)
  • 1 avocado diced (creamy dreamy vibes)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved (optional, but they’re cute)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped (herb magic)
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese if you wanna be fancy
  • Juice of 2 limes zesty magic
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil smooth, silky, good fat vibes
  • 1 teaspoon honey just a touch for sweetness
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional spicy kick: a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapeño

Instructions
 

Prep like a boss

  • Start by getting all your veggies ready. Dice the bell pepper, chop the onion, halve the cherry tomatoes, and dice that avocado like it owes you money. Don’t skip this step, babe — prepping makes the whole process feel way more chef-y and less like a chaotic fridge raid.

Corn, corn, corn!

  • If you’re using fresh corn, shuck those babies and slice the kernels off the cob. Hot tip: run a knife down the cob over a big bowl — the kernels fall right in, no drama. If you’re using frozen corn, just give it a quick sauté in a pan with a little olive oil until tender and slightly caramelized. That little charred bit? Chef’s kiss.

Make the magic dressing

  • In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. If you want a little heat, toss in cayenne or finely diced jalapeño. Taste it — I always do a lil’ dip test with my finger (don’t judge, it’s the best part).

Mix it all together

  • In a large bowl, toss the corn, bell pepper, onion, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro. Pour the dressing over everything and toss gently. We’re looking for coated-not-soggy vibes here. Add feta last, and toss lightly so it doesn’t turn into a mushy mess.

Chill or dive right in

  • This salad is tasty fresh, but if you can resist, let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes. It gives all the flavors a chance to mingle, and babe, the taste level goes from “yum” to “oh wow, is this really salad?”

Serve & slay

  • Plate it up like a total kitchen goddess. Sprinkle a few extra cilantro leaves or feta crumbles on top because presentation matters, even if it’s just you, your dog, and a glass of wine.

Notes

  • Fresh vs. frozen corn: Fresh corn gives the best sweet crunch, but frozen works in a pinch. Sauté frozen corn lightly for extra flavor.
  • Avocado: Add right before serving to avoid browning or mushiness.
  • Optional add-ins: Cherry tomatoes, black beans, roasted corn, jalapeño, or crispy bacon all work beautifully.
  • Make ahead: Prep the veggies and dressing in advance, but hold off on avocado and feta until serving for the freshest taste.
  • Dressing tweak: Adjust lime and honey to balance tang and sweetness. Extra lime juice gives a zesty kick.
Keyword Corn Salad