Are you craving a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal that’s ready in minutes? Look no further! This sweet corn and crispy bacon salad is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a light yet flavorful lunch. It's a simple recipe, ideal for homemade cooking, that combines the salty crunch of bacon with the sweetness of fresh corn – a match made in culinary heaven! This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. Prepare to be amazed by how simple it is to create this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 2 ears of corn)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (for extra heat)
Instructions:
-
Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet.
-
Sauté the Corn and Onion: Add the red onion to the skillet with the bacon grease and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the corn kernels and cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender-crisp. If using frozen corn, ensure it's fully cooked and heated through.
-
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, cilantro, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
-
Combine and Serve: Add the cooked corn and onion mixture to a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to combine. Stir in the crispy bacon.
-
Garnish and Enjoy: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve immediately or chill for later. You can garnish with extra cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor, use a smoky bacon.
- Don't overcook the corn; you want it tender-crisp, not mushy.
- If you prefer a smoother salad, you can pulse the corn and onion mixture briefly in a food processor before adding the dressing.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder to your liking.
Variations:
- Avocado Corn Salad: Add 1/2 cup diced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.
- Black Bean Corn Salad: Incorporate 1 can (15 ounces) of black beans, rinsed and drained, for extra protein and fiber.
- Spicy Corn Salad: Add a finely minced jalapeño or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Grilled Corn Salad: Grill the corn on the cob before cutting off the kernels for a smoky flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 250-300 (depending on ingredients and portion size)
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fiber: 3-4g
This recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and easily adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs. Enjoy this simple yet incredibly flavorful sweet corn and bacon salad! It’s a great addition to any meal and perfect for potlucks or casual gatherings. We hope you enjoy this easy recipe as much as we do!