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Easy Loaded Corn Salad

June 4, 2023
Shanika | Orchids + Sweet Tea
This Easy Loaded Corn Salad is bursting with fresh flavors and is a must-have for any gathering. The ultimate crowd-pleasing summer side dish!

Easy Loaded Corn Salad

This Easy Loaded Corn Salad is bursting with fresh flavors and is a must-have for any summer gathering. Whether you're serving it as a summer side dish or main course, this quick salad recipe is a real crowd-pleaser. This easy corn salad is topped with a luscious creamy garlic dairy-free dressing that perfectly complements the fresh ingredients, elevating the flavors to a whole new level! A true star at summer parties and game day gatherings. Entirely Vegan, Gluten-free & Dairy-free!

Corn salad ingredients in a large silver bowl with two spoons on a black wood table.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links via Amazon for products that I wholeheartedly love and receive commission from.

I'm so excited to share my Easy Loaded Corn salad with you guys! It’s my take on the popular Mexican street food 'Esquites.' This salad is a delectable twist on the classic. I've transformed it into a refreshing summer salad that's equally if not more delicious. If you like this easy corn salad recipe, then I know you'll LOVE these Dairy-Free Mexican Street Corn Nachos. Wash them down with this insanely refreshing Frozen Peach and Lime Margarita Mocktail or this tangy Citrus Honey Mint Mocktail!

Why Easy Loaded Corn Salad?

This Easy Loaded Corn Salad is an absolute summer must-have. Whether it's a patio dinner or a backyard BBQ. My kid loves scooping it up with tortilla chips or having it as a side dish alongside some Crispy Oven Fried Chicken. If you're wanting to keep it all plant-based, try these Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings seriously perfect for any occasion. Trust me-- It's a flavor explosion that will instantly uplift your mood. Savor all the goodness of this amazing quick + easy salad recipe that is completely vegan and gluten-free. Let the summertime feasting begin!

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Ingredients on a black wood table including corn, avocado, tomatoes, sauce, and herbs and seasonings.

How To Make Easy Loaded Corn Salad

The best thing about this Loaded Corn Salad recipe besides that it's completely plant-based is that most of the ingredients are pantry staples. Plus, it's easy to mix and match ingredients with whatever you have on hand, so there's no need to make an extra trip to the store!

Dairy-free Garlic Dressing

Ingredients

  • Garlic
  • Vegan Mayo (I love Follow Your Heart Veganaise)
  • Almond Milk or another plant-based milk of your choice.
  • Parsley + Garlic Powder
  • Salt + Pepper.

Whisk everything together in a bowl until combined and smooth. Yup. It's that easy.

Loaded Corn Salad

Ingredients

  • Corn! The star of the show. You can use a mix of white + yellow sweet corn
  • Jalapeños. You can remove the seeds for less heat
  • Avocado. I recommend Hass for ultra creaminess.
  • Red onion. Adds sweetness.
  • Roasted herb tomatoes. You can also use raw tomatoes.
  • Cucumber. To add a crunchy texture and freshness.
  • Herbs. I suggest Parsley, Basil + Oregano.
  • Salt + Pepper. Enhances all the flavors!

In a bowl, add the cooked corn, chopped jalapeños, diced avocado, tomatoes, chopped cucumber, and seasonings to a bowl and stir everything together until combined. Drizzle generous amounts of garlic dressing atop everything and toss together until veggies are coated.

Long white plate of salad with a spoon on a black wood table with tortilla chips and sliced avocados.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS EASY LOADED CORN SALAD

Creamy and crunchy: A delightful combination of creamy and crunchy textures, thanks to the creamy dressings and crisp veggies.
Versatile and customizable: You can personalize your loaded corn salad by adding your favorite toppings!
Easy to make: You can whip up this salad in no time. The ideal summer side dish for quick meals or last-minute party preparations.
A Perfect Flavor Balance: Tangy + Fresh + Creamy = Deliciousness.
Party in a bowl: This summer salad brings the party vibes to your table, making every meal feel like a festive celebration.

What to Eat with Easy Loaded Corn Salad

This summer salad is perfect for making ahead for any Potluck, BBQ, or Picnic. Serve it alongside other delicious sides like this Soft Buttery Vegan Brioche Bread, a simple side dish of Sticky Peach Chicken Wings, or these Sticky Coca-Cola Cauliflower Wings!

Add-In Ideas

More heat- More Jalapenos or ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper
More zing - Add zest from 1 lime
Veggies - Bell peppers or any of your fav veggies can be added to suit!
Plant Protein - Crispy tofu, tempeh, edamame, or black beans are a great addition.
Meat Protein - Chicken + Fish are a great option if you are not vegan or vegetarian.
Extra Crunch - Homemade croutons are an amazing add-on in all salads if you ask me..

SHOP MY FAVORITE TOOLS FOR COOKING, ESPECIALLY FOR THIS SUMMER SALAD!

Here, I’ve curated a list of cooking + baking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite baked goods or cooked meals, especially with this Easy Loaded Corn Salad. Everything from my fave high-powered blender, baking sheets, wooden spoons, salad chopper, mixing bowls, and more.

Salad in a long white plate with a spoon on a black wood table with tortilla chips and sliced avocados.

Common Q + A's for this Easy Loaded Corn Salad

How Long Does This Easy Corn Salad Last?

Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days, depending on the ingredients. Always determine the ingredients in your salad and keep it no longer than the shelf life of your fastest-spoiling ingredient.

Can I Make This Ahead Of Time?

Absolutely! The corn + chopped veggies can be made up to 2 days beforehand and stored in an airtight container and refrigerated making it a quick salad recipe! The dairy-free dressing can be made and refrigerated in a separate airtight container.

Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh Corn for the Loaded Corn Salad?

Absolutely! While fresh corn is ideal, you can definitely use frozen corn kernels as a substitute for a quick salad on the go. Just make sure to thaw and drain the corn before incorporating it into the salad.

Can I Adjust the Level of Spiciness in the Loaded Corn Salad?

Of course! The level of spiciness can be adjusted to your preference. If you like it milder, reduce or omit the spicy ingredients like jalapenos. If you prefer it hotter, add more of those elements or even experiment with adding some chili powder or cayenne pepper.

Can I Use a Different Type of Dressing for the Loaded Corn Salad?

Definitely! So while the suggested dressing is a creamy and tangy option, you can experiment with different dressings to suit your taste. Try my Creamy Honey Mustard Dressing or Homemade Green Goddess Dressing for a different flavor!

Can Children Enjoy Loaded Corn Salad?

Definitely! This quick salad recipe is a family-friendly dish that children can enjoy. If needed, you can adjust the spice level or omit certain ingredients to suit their taste preferences. It's a great way to introduce them to different flavors and textures of fresh vegetables.

Can I Make a Larger Batch of the Easy Loaded Corn Salad for a Party or Gathering?

Absolutely! This amazing summer side dish can be easily scaled up to feed a larger crowd. You can simply adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly and mix everything together in a larger bowl. It's a fantastic dish to share at summer parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.

Other Crowd-Pleasing Recipes You'll Love!

If you loved this Easy Loaded Corn Salad try these family-friendly recipes next!

MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?

If you tried this Easy Loaded Corn Salad recipe or any other recipe on my website, please please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. I love hearing from you.

Salad in a long white plate with a spoon on a black wood table with tortilla chips and sliced avocados.

Easy Loaded Corn Salad

June 4, 2023
5 from 2 votes
This Easy Loaded Corn Salad is bursting with fresh flavors and is a must-have for any gathering. The ultimate crowd-pleasing summer side dish!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Serves: 6 servings

Ingredients

SALAD:

  • 6 cups cooked corn kernels (You can use a mix of white + yellow sweet corn)
  • 2 jalapeños, finely chopped (You can remove the seeds for less heat)
  • 1 large Hass avocado, ripe + diced
  • 1 red onion, finely chopped or diced
  • 4 cups Roasted herb tomatoes (You can also use raw tomatoes, diced)
  • 1 cucumber, peeled + finely chopped
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried parsley
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano

DAIRY-FREE CREAMY GARLIC DRESSING:

  • 4-6 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup vegan mayonnaise
  • ½ cup Almond milk, unsweetened (You can use your fave plant-based milk)
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

TO MAKE THE GARLIC DRESSING:

  • Whisk together the vegan mayonnaise, milk, minced garlic, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl until combined and smooth.
  • Set aside in the refrigerator until ready to use.

TO MAKE THE CORN SALAD:

  • In a bowl, add the cooked corn, chopped jalapeños, diced avocado, tomatoes, chopped cucumber, and seasonings to a bowl stir everything together until combined. Drizzle generous amounts of garlic dressing atop everything and toss together until veggies are coated.
  • Serve immediately with your favorite meat or main dish or eat as a light lunch or snack with your favorites like tortilla chips, bread, etc.
  • Bon Appetit!

Tips & Tricks

  • STORAGE: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days, depending on the ingredients. 
  • HERB ROASTED TOMATOES: To see the recipe, tap this link.
  • DRESSING (STORAGE): Add  leftover dressing to your favorite mason jar or tightly sealed container and refrigerate for 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Nutrition

Calories: 300kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Sodium: 842mg | Potassium: 493mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 353IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 90mg | Iron: 2mg

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Signature of my name, Shanika in black font.

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5 from 2 votes (1 rating without comment)

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  1. Another keeper, Shanika. This is a delicious salad. I could have eaten the sauce alone. I did start eating it, but then I realized I had forgotten the almond milk. It's still good. Next time, I will use half the amount of milk and perhaps use it as a dip for something lol. Nevertheless, thank you for sharing.