Crunchy Chili Lime Corn Salad

Looking for a vibrant, refreshing dish that embodies summer? Try the Zesty Crunchy Chili Lime Corn Salad! Bursting with sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and a zesty lime dressing, this salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a colorful side dish. With its delightful mix of flavors and textures, including crunchy bell peppers and creamy avocado, it's not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. Impress your guests with this tasty and nutritious recipe that’s sure to become a favorite!

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Ingredients

3 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 5-6 ears of corn)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 medium red bell pepper, diced

1 small red onion, finely chopped

1 ripe avocado, diced

1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

Juice of 2 limes

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 cup crushed tortilla chips (for added crunch)

Instructions

Prepare the Corn: If using fresh corn, begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rapid boil. Add the corn and cook for approximately 4-5 minutes until tender and bright yellow. Once cooked, carefully drain the corn and immediately transfer it to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and maintain its crisp texture. If you opt for frozen corn, simply thaw it and drain any excess liquid.

Mix the Veggies: In a spacious mixing bowl, add the prepared corn, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and diced avocado. Gently toss the ingredients together with a spatula to ensure they are evenly distributed, being careful not to mash the avocado.

Whisk the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, pour in the freshly squeezed lime juice and olive oil. Add the chili powder, ground cumin, and season with salt and pepper. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is well blended and emulsified. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice according to your preference.

Combine & Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss again until all the veggies are beautifully coated with the zesty dressing. Right before serving, sprinkle in the crushed tortilla chips to add a delightful crunch, and lightly toss to combine.

Garnish: For an added burst of flavor and color, top the salad with freshly chopped cilantro. This not only enhances the look but also complements the zesty profile of the salad.

Chill for Extra Flavor: For the best taste, consider allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving, letting the flavors meld beautifully. This step is optional but highly recommended.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 45 mins | Serves 6-8