Creamy Southern Corn Salad: A Refreshing and Flavorful Side Dish

This Southern-style Corn Salad is a refreshing and creamy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Combining sweet corn with crunchy celery, vibrant green pepper, and juicy tomatoes, this salad is tossed in a tangy and slightly sweet dressing. It’s quick to prepare and sure to be a hit at your next picnic, barbecue, or family dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 5 cups cooked and cooled corn
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced celery
  • 1/4 cup finely diced green pepper
  • 1/2 cup chopped tomato, seeds removed
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Prep Time:

  • 10 minutes

Additional Time:

  • 2 hours

Total Time:

  • 2 hours 10 minutes

Servings:

  • 12 servings

Instructions:

  1. Combine Vegetables:
    • In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled corn, celery, green pepper, and tomatoes.
  2. Prepare Dressing:
    • In a separate small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, granulated sugar, vinegar, and ground black pepper. Taste the dressing and add additional vinegar or sugar as desired.
  3. Mix Salad:
    • Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and stir to combine thoroughly.
  4. Refrigerate:
    • Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve this corn salad as a side dish with grilled meats, such as chicken, steak, or pork.
  • It also pairs well with barbecue ribs, burgers, or as a topping for tacos.
  • For a lighter meal, enjoy it on its own or over a bed of mixed greens.

Cooking Tips:

  • For added flavor, you can grill the corn before cutting it off the cob.
  • Ensure the corn is completely cooled before mixing it with the other vegetables to keep the salad fresh and crisp.
  • Adjust the seasoning of the dressing to your taste, adding more vinegar for tanginess or more sugar for sweetness.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Corn: Provides fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, which support digestive health and provide essential nutrients.
  • Celery: Low in calories and high in vitamins K and C, as well as antioxidants.
  • Tomatoes: Rich in vitamins C and K, and antioxidants like lycopene, which are beneficial for heart health.

Dietary Information:

  • This salad is vegetarian.
  • For a lighter version, you can use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt instead of regular mayonnaise.
  • Gluten-free as long as all ingredients (including the mayonnaise) are certified gluten-free.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 10 minutes to prepare, making it a perfect last-minute side dish.
  • Flavorful: The combination of fresh vegetables and the tangy, creamy dressing creates a delicious and satisfying salad.
  • Versatile: Suitable for various occasions, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.

Conclusion:

This Southern-style Corn Salad is a delicious and versatile side dish that’s sure to become a favorite. With its creamy and tangy dressing, crunchy vegetables, and sweet corn, it’s a perfect addition to any meal. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, this salad is both healthy and satisfying. Enjoy this refreshing dish at your next event or family meal!