Get ready to revolutionize your summer side dishes with this mouthwatering Corn Salad with Buttermilk Dressing that's about to become the star of your next cookout! Imagine a vibrant, fresh blend of sweet corn kernels, juicy cherry tomatoes, and zesty herbs, all brought together with a creamy, tangy buttermilk dressing that will have your guests begging for the recipe. This isn't just another boring salad - it's a flavor explosion that combines the best of summer's fresh produce with a creamy, irresistible dressing that'll make you forget about every other side dish you've ever tried!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove corn kernels from fresh ears by standing the ear vertically and carefully slicing downward with a sharp knife, collecting kernels in a large mixing bowl.
- Dice the red onion into small, uniform pieces and halve the cherry tomatoes to ensure even distribution throughout the salad.
- Chop fresh cilantro leaves finely, removing any tough stems to maximize flavor and texture.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together buttermilk, mayonnaise, and lemon juice until smooth and well-combined to create the dressing.
- Season the buttermilk dressing with salt and freshly ground black pepper, tasting and adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Add diced red onion and halved cherry tomatoes to the corn kernels in the mixing bowl.
- Pour the prepared buttermilk dressing over the corn mixture and gently fold to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the salad and gently mix to distribute herbs throughout.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and chill before serving.
- Before serving, give the salad a final gentle stir and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Tips
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh corn kernels straight from the cob for the most incredible flavor and texture. If fresh corn isn't available, high-quality frozen corn can work in a pinch.
- Chill for Maximum Flavor: Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 15-30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and develop, creating a more complex and delicious dish.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add extra ingredients like diced avocado, grilled jalapeños, or crumbled feta cheese to make the salad your own.
- Cutting Corn Like a Pro: When removing kernels from the cob, stand the ear vertically in a large bowl and use a sharp knife to slice downward. This prevents kernels from flying everywhere and catches them neatly.
- Dressing Tip: Taste and adjust the buttermilk dressing before adding it to the salad. The perfect balance of tangy, creamy, and seasoned is key to an outstanding corn salad.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This salad can be prepared up to a day in advance, making it perfect for potlucks and summer gatherings.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 5mg