This Crack Corn Salad is a fun mix of sweet corn, creamy dressing, and tasty extras like red onions and peppers. It’s colorful, crunchy, and great for sunny days!
Honestly, this salad is a hit at every gathering. You can whip it up in no time. I love serving it alongside BBQ dishes—it adds a nice twist to the meal. 🌽🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn gives a sweet and crunchy texture. If fresh isn’t available, using canned corn works just fine—just make sure to drain and rinse it well. Frozen corn can also be a great alternative!
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a savory flavor and crunch. You could swap it with turkey bacon or even crispy chickpeas for a vegetarian option. I find that cooking the bacon until really crispy enhances the texture of the salad.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These ingredients create a creamy base. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can replace both mayo and sour cream. It adds a nice tang and is a healthier choice.
Feta Cheese: For a salty kick, feta is awesome but feel free to leave it out if you’re looking to keep it dairy-free. You might try adding some diced avocado for creaminess instead.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This gives a nice tang. If you don’t have it, any vinegar like white wine or lemon juice can work, too. I love the slight sweetness of apple cider vinegar in this recipe.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Is Well-Mixed and Flavorsome?
Mixing the salad well is key for great flavor. Start with the corn and bacon in a large bowl. When making the dressing in a smaller bowl, whisk it until creamy to ensure it combines smoothly with everything.
- Ensure your dressing is evenly mixed before pouring it over the main ingredients.
- Mix gently but thoroughly; this way, every bite is tasty!
- Taste before serving. You may want extra salt, pepper, or vinegar depending on your preference.
Letting the salad chill is important, too. It helps the ingredients meld together, making it even tastier!
How to Make Crack Corn Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels (or 2 cans of corn, drained)
- 1 cup diced cooked bacon (about 6–8 slices)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful crack corn salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, in just about 45 minutes, you’ll have a refreshing salad ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the corn kernels for about 5 minutes until they are tender. Once cooked, drain the corn and let it cool. If you’re using canned corn, simply drain and rinse it, and it’s ready to go!
2. Mix the Base Ingredients:
To a large mixing bowl, add the cooled corn, diced cooked bacon, and sliced green onions. Give it a gentle stir to combine all the ingredients.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until you have a smooth dressing. It should be creamy and well-blended.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the corn and bacon mixture. Toss everything together gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. If you want to add extra flavor, fold in the crumbled feta cheese.
5. Season and Chill:
Give the salad a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add a bit more salt and pepper to make it just right. Once seasoned, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, take the salad out of the fridge. If you like, you can garnish it with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. Enjoy your refreshing crack corn salad!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh Corn?
Absolutely! You can use frozen corn kernels; just make sure to thaw them first. You can do this by placing them in a bowl in the fridge overnight or running them under cold water in a colander for a few minutes. Drain well before adding to the salad.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free mayonnaise for a lighter option. This will keep the salad creamy while adding a bit of tanginess. Adjust the seasoning as needed since yogurt can be slightly more tart.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Leftover crack corn salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just note that the corn may become slightly softer over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. Give it a stir before serving if some separation occurs!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Of course! This salad is quite versatile. Feel free to add diced bell peppers, jalapeños for some heat, or even chopped tomatoes for extra freshness. Just make sure to keep the overall texture balanced, and adjust the dressing if needed!
