Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a vibrant dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer! This Warm Roasted Red Onion Corn Salad is a delightful blend of sweet corn and caramelized onions, all tossed together with fresh cilantro and a zesty lime dressing. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for a refreshing side dish to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. With just 35 minutes of your time, you'll create a colorful and flavorful salad that will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how easy it is to bring the taste of summer to your table!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 2 red onions, cut into wedges
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Carefully remove the husks from the corn ears, ensuring all silk is stripped away. Using a sharp knife, cut the corn kernels off the cob by standing each ear upright and slicing downward, collecting kernels in a bowl.
- Cut red onions into even wedges, making sure they are approximately 1-inch thick to ensure even roasting. This helps maintain a consistent texture and caramelization.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss corn kernels and red onion wedges with olive oil, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Spread the corn and onion mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper roasting and caramelization.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, stirring once halfway through cooking. Look for golden-brown edges on the corn and onions, indicating proper caramelization.
- Remove from oven and immediately transfer to a serving dish. While still warm, squeeze fresh lime juice over the vegetables, which will enhance their natural flavors.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the salad, gently tossing to distribute herbs evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve warm as a side dish or light lunch, enjoying the sweet roasted corn and caramelized onions with bright cilantro and lime notes.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, select fresh, sweet corn and firm red onions. The quality of your produce will greatly enhance the overall taste of the salad.
- Don’t Rush the Roasting: Make sure to spread the corn and onion mixture in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow for proper caramelization. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, which might result in a less flavorful dish.
- Adjust the Seasoning: After tossing the salad with lime juice and cilantro, taste it! Depending on your preference, you might want to add a bit more salt or pepper to elevate the flavors even further.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize this salad by adding other ingredients like diced bell peppers, avocado, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve Warm or Cold: While this salad is delicious warm, it can also be enjoyed chilled. Make it ahead of time and let the flavors meld in the fridge for a refreshing cold salad option.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 110kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
