She Strengthens

Summer’s Sweetest Ingredient: 9 Corn Salad Recipes to Savor

As the summer season arrives, bushels of corn waiting to be husked signal the start of a delicious journey. While a classic ear of corn is always a pleasure, its sweetness and savory flavor cry out to be paired with other summer produce in a vibrant and chunky salad.

Endless Possibilities

The versatility of corn salads knows no bounds, and we’re excited to share our favorite recipes that put this veggie center stage. Whether you’re experimenting in the kitchen or grilling outdoors, these creations will inspire you to get creative with corn.

Tomato, Tomatillo, and Corn Salad with Avocado Dressing

This refreshing salad combines the tanginess of tomatillos with sweet corn, crunchy jicama, and juicy tomatoes. The pièce de résistance is a rich, smoky avocado-chipotle dressing that just happens to be vegan.

Fresh Corn and Tomato Salad

Simple yet stunning, this easy salad is perfect for pairing with grilled delights or enjoying at a picnic. Try it with heirloom tomatoes or sweet orange Sungolds, but be sure to add them just before serving to preserve their texture.

Maque Choux: A Southern Classic

This corn salad, featuring the Cajun “holy trinity” of onion, green pepper, and celery, is a Southern staple. Crispy okra, cream, and bacon elevate this recipe to new heights. Pair it with Cajun shrimp or jambalaya for a summer celebration.

Charred Corn and Zucchini Salad

The sweet harmony of zucchini and corn is elevated by the crispy layer of char achieved through grilling. Chopped cilantro and feta cheese add a delightful zing to this summer salad.

Honey Lemon Shrimp and Corn Salad

Introducing Tajin seasoning, a chili-lime delight that adds a kick to this summery corn entree. Honey sweetens the spice, while shrimp and a rainbow of corn kernels provide a hefty dose of protein and fiber.

Mexican Quinoa Salad with Corn and Black Beans

This Southwestern salad gets a nutritious boost from quinoa, which pairs perfectly with corn and black beans. A light, cumin-dusted vinaigrette adds a kick, while sliced avocado and chopped fresh tomatoes take it to the next level.

Garden Fresh Corn Salad

Celebrate summer’s bounty with this bright, light, and crisp salad, featuring corn alongside a garden’s worth of veggie pals, including radishes, cucumber, tomatoes, and fresh herbs.

Elote Corn Salad

Grilled Mexican street corn becomes an easy-to-serve salad sensation. Prepare to share this recipe, as everyone will want a taste!

Sweet Corn and Arugula Salad

This easy, vegan salad checks all the boxes, combining shucked corn with peppery arugula, colorful red onion and bell pepper, and a simple vinaigrette. Whole foods never tasted so good!

The Bottom Line

Summer picnics, potlucks, and dinner gatherings can always use a side (or main dish) featuring sweet, crunchy corn. These salads will have you thinking of “corny” as a very good thing indeed!