This Easy Crack Corn Salad is perfect for hot summer days! It combines sweet corn, crunchy bell peppers, and creamy dressing for a bright, tasty dish that everyone will love.
I love how quick it is to make! Just toss all the ingredients together, and boom—you have a colorful salad that’s great at picnics or barbecues. Trust me, it disappears fast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn is always best for sweetness and texture. If you can’t find it, frozen corn works perfectly and is much easier to prep. Just make sure it’s thawed and well-drained!
Bacon: I love the crunchy bacon in this salad, but you can swap it for cooked turkey bacon or even leave it out for a vegetarian version. You might want to add some smoked paprika for that savory flavor.
Mayonnaise: Regular mayonnaise adds creaminess, but you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option. A vegan mayo also works great if you prefer a plant-based salad.
Parmesan Cheese: If you’re out of Parmesan, try feta for a tangy twist or omit it for a dairy-free version. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor without the cheese!
How Do I Get the Corn Just Right?
Cooking corn perfectly is key to this salad. If you’re using fresh corn, you can either boil it or grill it. Both methods are simple: just cook the corn for about 5-7 minutes until tender. If you’re using frozen corn, make sure it’s completely thawed and drained to keep the salad from getting watery.
- For boiling: Bring salted water to a boil, add corn, cover, and cook.
- For grilling: Place corn on the grill, turning occasionally until lightly charred.
- Let cooked corn cool before adding to your salad to keep the other ingredients fresh.
Easy Crack Corn Salad Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sour cream
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing and easy salad takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time, plus 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. In total, you’re looking at around 50 minutes, but most of that time is just waiting for it to cool down and let the flavors mingle together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
If using fresh corn, cook the corn kernels by boiling or grilling them until tender. If using frozen corn, be sure to thaw and drain it well. This will help avoid any excess water in your salad.
2. Mix the Main Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked corn kernels, crunchy chopped bacon, and thinly sliced green onions. Give it a gentle stir to mix these delicious ingredients together.
3. Whisk the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until everything is smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Dressing and Salad:
Pour the dressing over the corn mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated with the creamy dressing.
5. Collect the Flavor:
Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning if needed with a bit more salt, pepper, or lemon juice for that extra zing!
6. Garnish and Chill:
If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a fresh touch. Then, cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This time will let all those yummy flavors meld together perfectly!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, serve the salad cold as a great side dish for your summer gatherings. Enjoy the delightful crunch and explosion of flavors in every bite!
This creamy, crunchy crack corn salad is a delicious and easy side dish that’s sure to impress at any summer event!
FAQ for Easy Crack Corn Salad
Can I Use Canned Corn Instead of Fresh or Frozen?
Absolutely! Canned corn works well too. Just be sure to drain and rinse it to remove excess sodium and any canning liquid before adding it to your salad.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Crack Corn Salad?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as some separation may occur.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge. The flavors will get even better after chilling, making it a great make-ahead dish for gatherings!
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you want a vegetarian option, try using diced avocados for creaminess or crumbled feta cheese for added flavor. You could also use vegan bacon or simply omit it for a lighter salad.
