This Easy Crack Corn Salad is a perfect dish for summer! Made with sweet corn, colorful peppers, and a creamy dressing, it’s fresh and full of flavor.
Every bite is a crunchy delight, and it’s great for picnics or BBQs. I love making a big bowl and watching it disappear—friends can’t resist coming back for more!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Whether using fresh or frozen corn, both options are great! Fresh corn provides a tender and sweet bite, while frozen corn is convenient. You can also use canned corn if that’s what you have on hand—just drain and rinse it well.
Bacon: For added flavor, I love crispy bacon! If you want a vegetarian version, try using smoked paprika and a few drops of liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavor. You could also use vegetarian bacon or omit it for a lighter salad.
Mayonnaise: Regular mayonnaise gives a rich creaminess, but you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. Vegan mayo is another alternative if you’re avoiding eggs.
Green Onions: These add a lovely crunch and mild onion flavor. If you don’t have green onions, finely chopped red or yellow onion works too—but use less since it has a stronger flavor.
How Do I Cook Bacon Perfectly for This Salad?
Cooking bacon until it’s nicely crispy is vital for this salad. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with a cold skillet; add bacon strips in a single layer.
- Cook over medium heat, turning occasionally, until it becomes crisp—about 8-10 minutes.
- Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
This method helps the bacon crisp up evenly and avoid burning. Make sure to chop it once it’s cooled down a bit!
Easy Crack Corn Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 6 ears of corn if fresh)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus a little extra time to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. So, you’ll be looking at roughly 50 minutes total, but most of that time is just waiting for it to chill!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
If using fresh corn, start by shucking the corn and carefully cutting the kernels off the cob. If frozen, just thaw and drain the corn. Either option works great for this salad!
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it gets nice and crispy—this should take about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, place it on a paper towel to absorb the excess grease, then chop it into small pieces.
3. Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the corn kernels and the chopped bacon. This is where the fun begins, as you get to mix those delicious flavors!
4. Add the Creamy Dressing:
Now, add the mayonnaise, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if you’re using it) to the bowl. Stir everything together until the corn and bacon are well coated in the creamy mixture.
5. Incorporate the Green Onions:
Gently fold in the chopped green onions. These will add a nice crunch and fresh flavor to your salad!
6. Season to Taste:
Take a moment to taste your salad and sprinkle in some salt and black pepper to your liking. Remember, bacon can add a bit of saltiness on its own too!
7. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to come together beautifully.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, give it a good stir and serve your Easy Crack Corn Salad cold. It makes a perfect and refreshing side dish for any summer gathering!
This salad is creamy, slightly smoky, and bursting with fresh corn sweetness—a perfect easy summer dish!
FAQ for Easy Crack Corn Salad
Can I Use Canned Corn Instead of Fresh or Frozen?
Absolutely! Canned corn works well for this salad. Just make sure to drain and rinse it thoroughly to remove excess sodium before adding it to the mix.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon. You can add a bit of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke to give it that smoky flavor without the meat!
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes, this salad is great for making ahead! You can prepare it up to a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator, and stir well before serving to refresh the flavors.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving, as some ingredients may settle or separate. Enjoy it as a side dish or even in a wrap!
