By If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed dish, this Spiced Corn Salad recipe is your perfect match. With sweet corn kernels, crunchy vegetables, bold spices, and a zesty lemon kick, this salad brings a delicious twist to your table. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ, a potluck, or just want a nutritious side for dinner, this dish checks all the boxes: easy to make, bursting with flavor, and rich in nutrients.
Ingredients for Spiced Corn Salad
To prepare this irresistible spiced corn salad, you’ll need the following fresh and flavorful ingredients:
- 2 cups sweet corn kernels (boiled or roasted)
- 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small tomato, deseeded and diced
- 1 small cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional for spice lovers)
- ¼ cup fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon or lime
- ½ tsp roasted cumin powder
- ¼ tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or mustard oil (optional for richness)
How to Make Spiced Corn Salad (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
You can use fresh, frozen, or canned corn for this recipe. If using fresh corn, boil it for about 5–7 minutes until tender. Let it cool and then remove the kernels. Roasted corn adds a smoky flavor, which is highly recommended.
Step 2: Chop the Veggies
Finely chop all vegetables — red onion, tomato, cucumber, green chili, and coriander leaves. Make sure to deseed the tomato to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
Step 3: Mix the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the boiled or roasted corn kernels with the chopped veggies. Add roasted cumin powder, red chili powder, and salt.
Step 4: Add Lemon Juice
Squeeze fresh lemon or lime juice over the mixture to add tanginess and enhance all the flavors. If you’re using oil, drizzle it in at this point for extra depth and richness.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
Give everything a good toss until the spices and lemon juice are well incorporated. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15–20 minutes for a chilled version.
Tips for the Best Spiced Corn Salad
- Roast your corn on an open flame or grill for a smoky, charred flavor.
- Add protein like black beans or grilled paneer to make it a complete meal.
- Use fresh herbs like mint or basil for a flavor twist.
- Make it creamy by adding a spoonful of Greek yogurt or avocado cubes.
- Avoid sogginess by removing tomato seeds and draining excess moisture from cucumber.
Variations of Spiced Corn Salad
This salad is incredibly versatile. Here are some variations you can try:
- Mexican Corn Salad: Add Cotija cheese, lime zest, and a touch of mayonnaise or sour cream.
- Indian Chaat Style: Mix in some chaat masala, sev (crunchy noodles), and pomegranate seeds.
- Mediterranean Twist: Add olives, feta cheese, and cherry tomatoes with a drizzle of balsamic.
- Southwest Style: Add black beans, red bell peppers, jalapeños, and cilantro.
