This Fresh Corn Salad is summer in a bowl! It’s bursting with flavors, quick to whip up, and perfect for any summer party!
You know it’s not summer without some fresh, juicy, sweet summer corn.
From those delicious corn kernel to the tangy lime juice and the hint of chili kick, this salad is truly a crowd pleaser!
It’s the perfect combo of textures and flavors and is just begging to be eaten on warm afternoons!
Mexican corn salad is made with nature’s candy – fresh sweet corn!
A breeze to prepare! This is your go-to for last-minute summer picnics!
The chili powder and lime juice combo is such a zesty twist that is a true crowd pleaser!
And this corn salad recipe is perfect as a light meal or a easy side dish.
Celebrate summer months with this fresh and tangy treat.
What is Corn Salad?
Corn salad is a super yummy mix of corn and other ingredients to make a salad.
Most often it’s combined with fresh herbs, dressings, and sometimes other veggies.
It’s a summer staple for a lot of people since it’s the perfect summer side dish during BBQs, family dinners, and more.
You can find corn salad in a lot of Mexican foods but really, it goes with almost anything.
What Ingredients are in Fresh Corn Salad?
Very few fresh ingredients, a bit of mixing, and voila, you have a bowl of sunshine ready to be devoured.
Here’s what you’ll need to grab:
- Corn: The superstar, bringing in the sweet, juicy crunch.
- Cilantro: Adds a dash of freshness and an aromatic touch.
- Mayo: Gives the salad its creamy texture.
- Chili Powder: Introduces a smoky flavor and a hint of heat.
- Lime Juice: A zesty touch that elevates the salad.
Pro tip: Always choose the freshest ears of corn from the grocery store or farmers market for the best flavor.
How to Make Fresh Corn Salad?
This fresh corn salad recipe is super easy to make!
Here’s what you need to know:
- Prep your corn – cook it and then strip those kernels.
- Toss corn and cilantro in a bowl.
- Whisk together your very simple dressing ingredients.
- Combine everything and give a good mix.
- Chill before serving to let the flavors meld.
Pro tip: Use a sharp knife on a stable cutting board to easily remove corn kernels.
What to Serve with Fresh Corn Salad?
This summer corn salad goes with sooo many things!
Pair it with grilled meats, use it as a topping for tacos, or toss it out with your favorite summer potluck dishes.
And for a Mexican twist, you could even add some creamy avocado and cotija cheese.
Here are some recipes if you’re looking for ideas:
- Sour Cream Chicken Marinade
- Turkey Havarti Sandwich
- Sour Cream Chicken
- Grilled Salmon with Mayo
- Lemon Cream Pesto Shrimp
- Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken
- Smoky Chicken Tacos
- Korean BBQ Chicken Recipe
- Mexican Black Beans Recipe
- Chicken Carbonara Recipe
- Cincinnati Chili
- Seafood Pasta Recipe
- Creamy Mustard Chicken Recipe
- Deconstructed Cabbage Rolls
- Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad Recipe
Can You Freeze Fresh Corn Salad?
While fresh is best, you can freeze this easy corn salad recipe too.
But the texture will probably change when you thaw it.
It will still taste okay and be okay to eat. But I don’t think the texture would be that great.
How to Store Fresh Corn Salad?
Place the simple salad in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge.
It’s always best to eat it within a couple of days.
And never leave it out in the sun! The mayo will quickly go bad in the heat.
If you’re serving it at a potluck, make sure to leave it in the cooler or fridge until you’re ready to eat.
Do You Serve Fresh Corn Salad Hot or Cold?
Cold is the way to go when serving Mexican corn salad! Especially refreshing on a hot summer day.
While it might be warm when you first mix it if the corn was freshly cooked, it really is best to serve it cold.
Can You Use Raw Corn in Fresh Corn Salad?
You can and SHOULD use raw corn in this salad!
Raw corn gives you the most delicious crunch. Just be sure it’s fresh and cooked well for the best results.
You could use canned too but the flavor from fresh is my fav.
Can You Use Frozen Corn in Fresh Corn Salad?
You can also use frozen corn in Mexican street corn salad.
Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen corn before use.
That’s really essential. Otherwise your salad will be way to watery.
When to Serve Fresh Corn Salad?
When to serve corn salad and other salad recipes? All summer long!
It’s the perfect side dish at summer BBQs, picnics, family gatherings, or even as a light lunch.
It’s a great addition to lunch, dinner, or just a light afternoon snack. Honestly! Serve it whenever!
Can Dogs Eat Fresh Corn Salad?
While corn is safe for dogs to eat, they probably shouldn’t eat this salad.
Some ingredients like mayo might be difficult for dogs to digest.
If you do let them eat this, be careful. And talk to your vet if you have any trouble.
This Fresh Corn Salad is simple to make, delicious, and a summer favorite! Whether it’s your first time trying it or you’re a corn salad fan, this version is bound to be a favorite.
So, the next time you’re at the farmers market and see those gorgeous corn cobs, you know what delicious salad awaits you at home!

Fresh Corn Salad
Dive into summer with this Fresh Corn Salad! Juicy corn kernels, tangy lime, and a hint of chili - it's sunshine in a bowl!
Ingredients
Instructions
- Shuck and cook corn, cut kernels from corn. Boiling will take you 3-4 minutes.
- Mix corn and chopped cilantro together, set aside.
- Combine mayonnaise, chili powder and lime juice. Mix well.
- Add mayonnaise mixture to corn mixture, mix well.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 10 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 175Total Fat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 338mgCarbohydrates: 22gFiber: 3gSugar: 5gProtein: 4g
Photos and recipe updated on August 27, 2106
Photos & Text Updated: February 26, 2025
Barbara
Saturday 28th of July 2018
Great base recipe. I added more chili power and lime juice because I felt it was too subtle. I also added some green onions, smoked paprika, ,parsley for more color (as my cilantro was limited, and 1 can of black beans. Huge hit, super easy. PS, go easy on the smoked paprika if to try it. A little goes a long way.
Tammy Harris
Sunday 25th of February 2018
I made the Mexican Corn Salad using Best Foods Vegan Mayo and it was a huge hit. I will be making this again in both Vegan and non-Vegan versions . It’s delicious!!!
Rosalinda
Wednesday 13th of December 2017
I made this today. It was delicious! I topped it with Cojita Cheese and was perfect! Thank you for sharing recipe.
Monica @HappyandBlessedHome.com
Thursday 21st of September 2017
This awesome recipe is being featured as one my my top 10 New Tasty Must Try Side Dishes at Family Fun Friday. Thanks for sharing your cooking talents with us! https://www.happyandblessedhome.com/10-new-must-try-side-dishes/
Regan
Thursday 20th of April 2017
What a simple, fresh recipe, thank you for sharing. Featuring this week on Family Fun Friday. http://www.happyandblessedhome.com/6-spring-inspired-recipes/