Dressings that enhance corn in chilled salads
Corn’s sweet, starchy kernels pair well with dressings that add acidity, fat, and complementary seasonings. Choose the dressing to match the cuisine of the dish.
Great dressing options:
- Lemon or lime vinaigrette: Olive oil + citrus juice + honey + salt for a bright, summery finish.
- Creamy yogurt dressing: Greek yogurt + lemon zest + garlic + herbs for a tangy, cooling profile.
- Cilantro-lime dressing: Cilantro + lime + olive oil + jalapeño for a Mexican-inspired punch.
- Balsamic-honey vinaigrette: Balsamic vinegar + honey + mustard for a sweet-savory contrast.
- Mustard vinaigrette: Dijon + red wine vinegar + olive oil + shallot for a sharper edge.
Tips:
- Balance: Corn benefits from a bit of acid and fat to round out sweetness.
- Texture: Add crunch (nuts, seeds) or creaminess (cheese, avocado) to contrast kernels.
- Make-ahead: Dressings can be made ahead and tossed with salad right before serving to prevent sogginess.
Pick a dressing that complements other ingredients and the overall meal theme for the best results.