Creamy Corn Salad Jalapeño (Print Version)

Sweet corn and crunchy veggies tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing enlivened by jalapeño heat.

# Ingredient List:

→ Vegetables

01 - 4 cups fresh corn kernels (from approximately 5 ears) or frozen, thawed
02 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
03 - 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
04 - 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
05 - 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
06 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

→ Dressing

07 - 1/3 cup mayonnaise
08 - 1/4 cup sour cream
09 - 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
10 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
11 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
12 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
13 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

# How to Make:

01 - If using fresh corn, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add corn kernels and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until just tender. Drain and allow to cool completely.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled corn, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
03 - In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
04 - Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated.
05 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld, or serve immediately if preferred.
06 - Garnish with additional fresh cilantro before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in under 30 minutes, which means you can make it while your grill heats up or your main dish finishes.
  • The creamy dressing balances sweet corn with a jalapeño kick that sneaks up on you in the best way.
  • You can make it ahead and chill it, so it's one less thing to worry about when guests arrive.
02 -
  • Don't drown the salad with dressing—start with less and add more as needed, because you can always add but you can't take it back.
  • If you're making this ahead, keep the dressing separate and toss it in just before serving so things don't get soggy and sad.
03 -
  • Grilling your corn kernels before adding them to the salad deepens the flavor in a way that makes people ask what you did differently.
  • Taste the dressing before you add it to the vegetables—it should make your mouth water, because it's the foundation of everything.
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