Step into the vibrant flavors of summer with this exceptional Jalapeño and Roasted Corn Salad. Far from your ordinary green salad, this dish is a celebration of texture, spice, and the irresistible sweetness of perfectly roasted corn. It’s an incredibly versatile recipe, serving as the ultimate companion for your backyard cookouts or transforming into a dynamic topping for your favorite taco creations. Imagine it elevating the savory richness of our Marinated Skirt Steak Street Tacos or adding a zesty kick to Blackened Garlic Shrimp Tacos. Get ready to experience a salad that’s anything but basic, bursting with freshness and a tantalizing smoky depth that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
The Irresistible Magic of Roasted Corn
What truly sets this corn salad apart is the technique of roasting the corn. While boiling corn on the cob yields a tender kernel, roasting unlocks an entirely new dimension of flavor. The high heat of the oven caramelizes the natural sugars in the corn, creating a beautiful golden-brown char and an incredibly concentrated, smoky sweetness that simply can’t be achieved otherwise. This Maillard reaction adds a depth and complexity that forms the backbone of our salad, making it profoundly more flavorful and appealing.
To achieve this perfect roast, simply place the shucked corn directly on the oven rack. This method allows for even heat distribution and maximum surface contact, encouraging that delightful caramelization. The natural moisture within the corn steams it to tenderness while the exterior develops a fantastic roasted texture. It’s a simple step that makes a monumental difference in the final taste profile of this dish, transforming ordinary corn into a culinary star. Don’t skip this crucial step; it’s the secret to an unforgettable corn salad.
Key Ingredients for a Flavorful Corn Salad
This vibrant corn salad is an explosion of fresh ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating its balanced and bold flavor. Beyond the star ingredient—the roasted corn—we incorporate a medley of fresh produce and zesty seasonings:
- Roasted Corn: As highlighted, the foundation of this salad. Opt for fresh, in-season corn for the best flavor and sweetness. Three medium ears are typically enough for 4 servings.
- Bell Peppers and Onions: These aromatic vegetables provide a crucial textural contrast and a gentle sweetness. We use red bell pepper for its vibrant color and mild flavor, complementing the corn beautifully. Dicing them finely ensures they integrate seamlessly into each bite. Sautéing them until just translucent mellows their raw edge and brings out their inherent sweetness, adding another layer of savory depth to the salad.
- Jalapeño Pepper: Here’s where the spicy kick comes in! Diced jalapeños infuse the salad with a pleasant heat without overpowering the other flavors. If you prefer a milder salad, you can remove the seeds and membranes, which contain most of the capsaicin. For those who crave more heat, consider adding a serrano pepper or an extra jalapeño.
- Butter: Used to sauté the bell peppers and onions, butter adds a rich, luxurious undertone that enhances the overall flavor profile of the cooked vegetables before they join the corn.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is a non-negotiable component. Its bright, acidic zest cuts through the richness of the corn and butter, providing a refreshing counterpoint and elevating all the other flavors. It’s the perfect finishing touch that makes the salad truly pop.
- Cilantro: This fresh herb introduces a burst of vibrant, herbaceous flavor and a beautiful green hue. Cilantro adds an authentic, fresh taste that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients. We believe it’s essential for the full flavor experience, but we understand that cilantro can be a divisive herb. If you fall into the “cilantro tastes like soap” camp, feel free to omit it entirely. The salad will still be delicious, just with a slightly different aromatic profile.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance and balance all the other flavors. Adjust to your taste preferences.
The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its delicious outcome but also in the quality and freshness of its simple components. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to contribute to a harmonious and memorable culinary experience.
Enjoy Your Jalapeño and Roasted Corn Salad!
We are confident that this recipe for Jalapeño and Roasted Corn Salad will become a beloved staple in your kitchen, especially during the warmer months. Its dynamic flavors and ease of preparation make it a standout dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it at a casual backyard barbecue, as a vibrant side for your weeknight meals, or generously piled onto your favorite tacos, this salad delivers on taste and satisfaction. We absolutely adore seeing your culinary creations! If you decide to give this recipe a try, please don’t hesitate to leave us a comment below and share your experience. Your feedback is invaluable and helps our community grow. You can also tag us on Instagram @cooking_with_wine to show us your delicious results. Happy cooking!
Looking for more exciting and flavorful recipes that share a similar vibrant spirit? Explore these other fantastic dishes from our collection:
- Spicy Grilled Watermelon Salad: A surprisingly refreshing and zesty summer treat.
- Mexican Street Corn Pasta: A creative fusion of classic street food and a comforting pasta dish.
- Spicy Ginger Garlic Shrimp Skewers: Perfect for grilling, packed with bold Asian-inspired flavors.
- Cajun Crab Cakes: Bring the Heat: A delightful seafood option with a spicy kick.
- Guacamole From Scratch: The essential guide to making fresh, authentic guacamole every time.
📖 Recipe: Jalapeño and Roasted Corn Salad
Jalapeño and Roasted Corn Salad
This Jalapeño and Roasted Corn Salad is the perfect summer side for a cookout or a fantastic topping for your favorite taco recipe! Its blend of smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors makes it a highly addictive and versatile dish.
Pin Recipe
10 mins
1 hr
1 hr 10 mins
Sides
American
4 servings
137 kcal
Ingredients
- 3 medium ears of corn
- 2 tablespoon butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeno pepper, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat, or add a serrano for more)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lime juice, freshly squeezed
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for cilantro lovers)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This optimal temperature ensures the corn roasts evenly and develops that desirable charred flavor without drying out.
- Roast the Corn: Once the oven reaches temperature, place the unshucked corn directly on the oven rack. Roast for approximately 1 hour. This roasting method will sweeten and slightly char the kernels, intensifying their flavor profile significantly.
- Sauté Aromatics: While the corn is roasting, begin preparing your other vegetables. Dice the onion and bell pepper into small, uniform pieces. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper mixture to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions become translucent and soft, which should take about 4-5 minutes. This step mellows their flavors and adds a savory base to the salad. Remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside.
- Combine and Season: Once the corn has finished roasting, carefully remove it from the oven. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes; this makes it easier to handle and helps prevent burns. Shuck the corn, removing all the husks and silk. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the kernels from each ear of corn. Return the skillet with the sautéed pepper and onion mixture to medium heat. Add the roasted corn kernels, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring gently, until the corn mixture is completely warmed through, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat, then stir in the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro (if using). Taste the salad and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice to suit your preference.
- Serve: Transfer the Jalapeño and Roasted Corn Salad to a serving bowl. This salad is fantastic served warm as a side dish for any meal, or as a vibrant, flavorful topping for your favorite tacos, burrito bowls, or grilled proteins.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0.2g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 641mg
Potassium: 330mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 7g
Vitamin A: 1357IU
Vitamin C: 50mg
Calcium: 14mg
Iron: 1mg
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!