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Fresh Corn Salad with Bell Peppers & Zesty Lime Dressing – Crisp, Sweet & Refreshing 🌽🌶️🍋

This Fresh Corn Salad is the ultimate summer side dish: sweet, crunchy corn tossed with crisp bell peppers, red onion, and a bright, zesty lime dressing. It’s naturally gluten-free, vegan, and comes together in just 15 minutes—perfect for cookouts, picnics, or a quick healthy lunch. Fresh, tangy, and colorful, this salad will quickly become your go-to warm-weather recipe! 🥗✨
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🌽 Salad
  • 3 cups fresh corn kernels from 4 ears of corn or thawed frozen corn
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 green or yellow bell pepper diced
  • ½ cup red onion finely chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro or parsley chopped (optional)
🍋 Zesty Lime Dressing
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 tsp lime zest
  • 1 tsp honey or agave optional for sweetness
  • ½ tsp chili powder or smoked paprika
  • Salt & black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Sharp knife & cutting board
  • Small bowl or jar for dressing
  • Whisk or fork
  • Measuring cups & spoons

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Corn
  1. If using fresh corn, cook ears in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then cool and cut kernels off the cob.
  2. If using frozen corn, thaw and drain well.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
  1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, honey, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
  1. In a large bowl, combine corn, bell peppers, red onion, and cilantro.
  2. Pour dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
Step 4: Serve
  1. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  2. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes for even better flavor!

Notes

🥄 Variations
Add Avocado: Dice one avocado and gently fold in before serving.
Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle with crumbled feta or cotija cheese.
Protein Boost: Add black beans or chickpeas.
Extra Heat: Mix in minced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne.
🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Make Ahead: Chop veggies and prepare dressing up to 1 day ahead; combine just before serving.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use canned corn?
Yes—drain and rinse well.
How do I make it spicier?
Add diced jalapeño or extra chili powder.
Can I use lemon instead of lime?
Yes—lemon juice gives a slightly different but still bright flavor.
How do I keep it crisp?
Serve shortly after mixing, or refrigerate separately and combine before serving.
Can I grill the corn?
Yes! Grilled corn adds a smoky, delicious flavor.
Is it vegan?
Yes—just use maple syrup or agave instead of honey if needed.
Is it gluten-free?
Naturally gluten-free!
What herbs work best?
Cilantro, parsley, or basil.
What main dishes pair well?
Grilled chicken, fish, burgers, or tacos.
Can kids eat this?
Absolutely—just skip or reduce chili powder if sensitive to spice.
📝 Conclusion
This Fresh Corn Salad with Bell Peppers & Zesty Lime Dressing is sweet, crunchy, and refreshing—a colorful, healthy side that brightens any meal. It’s easy, quick, and sure to wow at your next BBQ or gathering! 🌽🌶️🍋