Fresh corn is a summertime staple, and what better way to celebrate its sweetness than in a vibrant, flavorful salad? Inspired by the beloved Pioneer Woman’s approach to hearty, delicious home cooking, this corn salad recipe takes the classic Mexican street corn flavors and transforms them into an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing side dish. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a simple family dinner, this Pioneer Woman Corn Salad is sure to become your new go-to summer recipe.
Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Inspired Corn Salad
Just like Ree Drummond, The Pioneer Woman, we believe in using simple, fresh ingredients to create dishes that burst with flavor. This corn salad is no exception. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this zesty side dish to life:
- Sweet Corn: The star of the show! Fresh corn on the cob, grilled to perfection, brings a smoky sweetness that is simply irresistible.
- Creamy Mayo: A touch of mayonnaise adds a lovely creaminess that coats the corn and brings all the flavors together.
- Bright Lime: Lime juice and zest are essential for that signature tangy zip that makes this salad so refreshing.
- Garlic and Scallions: These aromatics provide a savory depth, adding a bit of bite and oniony goodness.
- Cotija Cheese (or Feta): Salty and crumbly, Cotija cheese is traditional, but feta makes a fantastic substitute if you can’t find it.
- Fresh Cilantro: A handful of chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness and herbaceousness.
- Smoked Paprika: For a hint of smoky warmth that complements the grilled corn. Chili powder also works wonderfully.
- Jalapeño: A touch of diced jalapeño brings a welcome kick. Feel free to adjust the amount to your spice preference.
- Sea Salt: To enhance all the flavors and tie everything together beautifully.
- Olive Oil: Just a drizzle to brush the corn before grilling.
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Image: Vibrant and colorful Pioneer Woman corn salad, showcasing grilled corn kernels, creamy dressing, and fresh toppings like cilantro and cheese.
Making Your Pioneer Woman Corn Salad: Step-by-Step
Creating this Pioneer Woman corn salad is as easy as pie (or should we say, cornbread?). Follow these simple steps:
- Grill the Corn: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the corn on the cob with a little olive oil. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until kernels are tender and slightly charred.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, lime zest, and minced garlic. Set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: Once the corn is cool enough to handle, cut the kernels off the cob. In a large bowl, combine the grilled corn kernels, chopped scallions, Cotija cheese (or feta), chopped cilantro, smoked paprika, and diced jalapeño.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the creamy lime dressing over the corn mixture and gently fold everything together until well combined.
- Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe
Image: Close-up shot of Pioneer Woman corn salad, highlighting the texture of the corn, creamy dressing, and flecks of cilantro and jalapeño.
Serving Suggestions for Your Corn Salad
This Pioneer Woman corn salad is incredibly versatile and pairs well with so many dishes. It’s fantastic as a side dish at:
- Summer Cookouts: Serve it alongside grilled burgers, hot dogs, or BBQ ribs.
- Potlucks and Picnics: It’s a make-ahead salad that travels well and is always a hit.
- Mexican Fiesta Nights: Complement your tacos, fajitas, or enchiladas with this vibrant salad.
- Simple Weeknight Dinners: Add it to your plate with grilled chicken, fish, or vegetarian mains for a burst of flavor and freshness.
For a complete Pioneer Woman-style feast, consider serving this corn salad with:
- Grilled Meats: Ree loves her grilled meats! This salad is a perfect counterpoint to rich, savory grilled steak, chicken, or pork.
- Hearty Sandwiches: Imagine this salad alongside a juicy pulled pork sandwich or a hearty veggie burger.
- Burrito Bowls: Add leftover corn salad to burrito bowls with rice, beans, and your favorite toppings for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
- Ree’s Famous Recipes: Explore other Pioneer Woman recipes and find your perfect pairing!
corn salad
Image: Top-down view of a bowl of Pioneer Woman corn salad, showcasing its vibrant colors and inviting presentation, ready to be served.
More Delicious Summer Salad Ideas
If you’re loving this Pioneer Woman corn salad, why not try some other refreshing summer salads? Explore recipes featuring seasonal vegetables, bright dressings, and fresh herbs for more delightful side dishes to enjoy all summer long.
Pioneer Woman Corn Salad Recipe
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 4 ears fresh sweet corn, husked
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ⅓ cup chopped scallions
- ¼ cup crumbled Cotija cheese or feta cheese
- ¼ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder
- 1 small jalapeño pepper, finely diced (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
Equipment:
- Grill
- Large bowl
- Small bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Instructions:
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Brush corn with olive oil and grill for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.
- While corn grills, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, lime zest, and garlic in a small bowl.
- Once corn is cool enough to handle, cut kernels off the cob and place in a large bowl.
- Add scallions, Cotija or feta cheese, cilantro, smoked paprika, and jalapeño to the bowl with the corn.
- Pour dressing over corn mixture and gently fold to combine.
- Season with sea salt to taste.
- Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Recipe Notes:
- For extra smoky flavor, you can roast the jalapeño alongside the corn on the grill.
- To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeño to control the spice level.
Enjoy this Pioneer Woman inspired corn salad – it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
