Name: Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Salad:; 2 ears of corn, grilled and kernels removed; 1 large cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; For the Dressing:; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon mayonnaise; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste

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This Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing, vibrant dish that combines the smoky flavors of grilled corn with the cool, crunchy texture of fresh cucumber. A perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and spicy elements, it offers a delightful twist on a classic summer salad. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, attending a potluck, or just looking for a simple yet flavorful side dish, this salad is sure to impress.

Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The smoky, charred corn pairs beautifully with the crisp cucumber, while the creamy dressing made with Greek yogurt and mayonnaise adds richness and tang. A touch of lime, chili powder, and cilantro gives the salad a refreshing kick, making it the ideal side for any summer meal. It’s easy to make, and the best part? It’s just as delicious when made in advance, letting the flavors meld together.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious salad:

2 ears of corn, grilled and kernels removed
1 large cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Grill the corn: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the corn on the grates and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the corn is tender and has a slight char. Remove the corn from the grill and let it cool for a few minutes.
Remove the kernels: Once the corn is cool enough to handle, use a sharp knife to carefully cut the kernels from the cob. Place the kernels in a large mixing bowl.
Add the vegetables: To the bowl with the corn kernels, add the diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro. Mix everything together.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Combine: Pour the dressing over the corn and cucumber mixture, tossing until everything is evenly coated.
Chill: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This salad is best served chilled.
Serve: Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with additional cilantro and a sprinkle of chili powder if desired.
Enjoy: Serve your creamy, refreshing Street Corn Cucumber Salad chilled and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Variations

Vegan Option: Replace the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with dairy-free alternatives, such as coconut yogurt and vegan mayo.
Add Avocado: For a creamier texture, add diced avocado to the salad.
More Spice: If you like extra heat, increase the chili powder or add a chopped jalapeño.
Add Cheese: Crumbled feta or cotija cheese would be a great addition for some extra richness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: This salad is best served chilled and doesn’t require reheating. Just stir before serving to refresh the ingredients.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?

While fresh grilled corn offers the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen corn if fresh is not available. Just thaw it and sauté for a bit to get some charred flavor.

2. Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, this salad actually benefits from chilling for 30 minutes or more, as it allows the flavors to meld together. It’s great to prepare ahead of time!

3. Can I make this salad spicier?

If you like it spicy, you can add extra chili powder or a chopped jalapeño to give it more heat.

4. How long will this salad last in the fridge?

This salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container.

5. Can I use a different type of yogurt?

Yes, you can use regular yogurt, sour cream, or any other creamy substitute, depending on your preferences.

6. Can I make this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the mayonnaise used is gluten-free.

7. Can I use a different herb besides cilantro?

Yes, you can swap cilantro for parsley, mint, or any other herb you like.

8. Can I serve this warm instead of chilled?

While this salad is best served chilled, you could serve it at room temperature if you prefer.

9. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Definitely! You can add bell peppers, tomatoes, or even diced radishes for added crunch and color.

10. Can I substitute the mayonnaise with something else?

If you prefer, you can use more Greek yogurt in place of the mayonnaise for a lighter version, or even cashew cream for a dairy-free option.

Conclusion

This Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad is the perfect refreshing side dish for any summer occasion. The smoky corn, cool cucumber, and tangy dressing create a delightful balance of flavors that will leave everyone asking for the recipe. Easy to make, customizable, and perfect for potlucks or backyard barbecues, this salad is a must-try for your next gathering!