Every time I look at one of Ina Garten's cookbooks, I think "Now, why didn't I name myself something like The Barefoot Contessa?" I really think I could've pulled it off!
Ina has some fun recipes, and one of these is her Fresh Corn Salad, a fantastic way to take advantage of the amazing fresh flavor of sweet corn while it's in season.
A big plus for this recipe is that it can be made ahead of time. You can put it all together and let it chill in the fridge until you're ready to serve the rest of your meal. Plus, it is neater/easier to serve and eat than corn on the cob. A bowl of fresh corn goodness is much more civilized for a group gathering, don't you think?
Fresh Corn Salad Ingredients
How to make Ina Garten Corn Salad
The preparation is pretty straightforward.
- First, cook the corn. Boil it for only 3 minutes. All this does is to reduce the starchiness of the corn, and just barely cook the kernels. "Wake 'em up" is the phrase I've seen on bags of frozen veggies.
- After 3 minutes, immerse the cobs in ice water to stop the cooking process.
- Once cool, cut the kernels from the cobs. Sometimes this can be a messy project. To contain the scatter of corn, lay the cobs lengthwise and carefully cut the kernels. A kitchen towel underneath also helps contain those runaway kernels.
- Once the corn is in the bowl, simply add some onion and a dressing made of apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and salt and pepper. The original recipe specifies ½ teaspoon of both salt and pepper, but I tend to add without measuring and then adjust to taste when serving.
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- The final ingredient is fresh basil. This is where I strayed the most from the original recipe, which specifies ½ cup of leaves. To me, this was too much. The basil can sometimes overwhelm the otherwise simple flavors of this dish.
- Therefore, I recommend about 5-6 large fresh basil leaves, julienned. Add these right before serving if you have mixed the salad ahead of time. The basil provides a brightness to the salad while still allowing the fresh corn taste to shine.
Corn Salad Recipe Variations
If you want to mix the flavors of this corn salad up a little, here are a few ideas for you:
- Feta cheese would add a little salty creaminess to the salad.
- More veggies, like tomatoes or bell peppers will add both color and flavor.
- Grill the corn instead of boiling to add a smoky char and delightful taste!
You'll want to try this Corn Salad when corn is fresh and in season! Absolutely a perfect side for some grilled chicken legs. And corn lovers should also check out this recipe for bacon fried corn. Another delicious way to enjoy fresh corn!
📖 Recipe
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Fresh Corn Salad Recipe
Video
Ingredients
- 5 ears of corn husks removed
- ½ cup diced red onion
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons olive oil extra-virgin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4-5 large fresh basil leaves julienned
Instructions
- Bring a large pan of salted water to boil, add the ears of corn and cook for 3 minutes.5 ears of corn
- Remove and immerse in ice water to stop the cooking process.
- Once cool, cut the kernels from each ear and place in a medium bowl.
- Mix vinegar and oil with some salt and pepper, then pour over the corn and toss to combine.3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 3 tablespoons olive oil, Salt and pepper
- Add onions and stir.½ cup diced red onion
- Just before serving, add the basil and taste to adjust seasoning. Can be served cold or at room temperature.4-5 large fresh basil leaves
Nutrition
Nutrition values are estimates only, using online calculators. Please verify using your own data.
Fresh Corn Salad Recipe FAQs
If you LOVE basil then, yes, by all means add more. Up to ½ cup will work. I do recommend adding it RIGHT before serving as that amount can definitely overpower the taste of the corn.
Red onion works great in this salad because of its mild taste and the pop of color it provides. If you don't have a red onion, a bunch of scallions (green onions) is a good substitute.
The list is long! Just about anything you are making during this season works well, here are a few ideas:
- Grilled pork tenderloin
- Hasselback chicken
- Pulled pork
- Grilled pizza
- Grilled chicken
- Beef Kabobs
Emily Flint
This corn salad is going to be my go-to dish for the rest of the summer! I love the fresh veggies and I always add the extra basil!
Sula
Can't beat the freshness!
Andréa Janssen
What a delicious side dish and salad and so easy to prepare. Great recipe
Sula
Don't you just love easy and delicious?
Rachael
Love this! So refreshing. Fresh corn really goes perfectly with the sharp red onion and basil. Thanks for the recipe!
Sula
I so agree, the combination is just great.
Alexandra
Love salads that are simple to prepare and so full of flavour, and this corn salad is our new favourite!
Sula
I'm so glad you like it!
Scarlet
This corn salad sounds like the perfect summer side dish. I am pinning it now to try soon!
Sula
Yes I have found it goes with just about everything!
Emily
You can never go wrong with a recipe from Barefoot Contessa, Ina Garten is one of my favorite foodies! This corn salad is so delicious and a perfect side dish for any summer meal!
Sula
So true!
Beth
This recipe is mine and my husband's favorite! We love this and I can't wait to make this again!
Sula
I'm so glad you like it!
Sandra Shaffer
I can't get enough of the fresh corn we have right now. I haven't tried Ina Garten's recipe until now. Fresh and delicious. Thanks so much!
Sula
There is something so special about fresh corn. Its the best!
Emily
Everyone needs a good fresh corn salad recipe and this is it!
Sula
I so agree!
Jamie
I love the addition of fresh basil in this salad! This is such a light, and refreshing salad with so much flavor and crunch!
Sula
Yes I love the freshness of it all!
Big Trouble
Ooo, this looks like a pretty good taco topping! Easy to make AND refreshing! Can't wait to try it, Sula!
Sula
Good idea! But you might want to substitute cilantro for the basil to be consistent with taco flavors. 🙂
Texasgirl
Perfect timing as I am always looking for ways to use sweet corn and this sounds so good
Sula
I hope you give it a try!