Sweet Corn Salad with Bacon Recipe | Easy & Delicious Side Dish

Bright, flavorful, and irresistibly satisfying, a Sweet Corn Salad with Bacon Recipe is one of those dishes that instantly elevates any meal. The natural sweetness of fresh corn pairs perfectly with the smoky crunch of bacon, while crisp vegetables and a light dressing tie the whole salad together. This salad is both versatile and crowd-pleasing—it shines as a side for summer barbecues, family dinners, or potluck gatherings.

Its combination of textures and flavors makes every bite delightful, and the simplicity of preparation ensures it can be whipped up in minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a special occasion, this sweet corn salad with bacon delivers freshness, flavor, and a touch of indulgence all in one bowl.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious sweet corn salad. The table below includes approximate calorie counts per serving:

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories (per serving)
Fresh or frozen sweet corn	2 cups	150
Bacon strips	6 strips	270
Red bell pepper, diced	1 cup	40
Red onion, finely chopped	½ cup	20
Cherry tomatoes, halved	1 cup	27
Mayonnaise	¼ cup	360
Greek yogurt	¼ cup	35
Lime juice	2 tablespoons	7
Fresh cilantro, chopped	2 tablespoons	2
Salt	½ teaspoon	0
Black pepper	¼ teaspoon	0

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the bacon:
   In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon strips until crispy. Remove from the skillet, drain on paper towels, and crumble into small pieces.
2. Prepare the corn:
   If using fresh corn, boil or grill the corn until tender, then cut the kernels off the cob. For frozen corn, blanch in boiling water for 2–3 minutes and drain.
3. Chop vegetables:
   Dice red bell pepper, halve cherry tomatoes, and finely chop red onion and cilantro.
4. Make the dressing:
   In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
5. Combine salad ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine corn, crumbled bacon, bell pepper, onion, tomatoes, and cilantro. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
6. Chill and serve:
   Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

• Spice it up: Add diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a mild kick.
• Cheese lovers: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or crumbled feta for extra creaminess.
• Make it lighter: Replace mayonnaise with extra Greek yogurt or a light vinaigrette.
• Add beans: Black beans or kidney beans can make this salad more filling and protein-rich.
• Herbs: Swap cilantro for fresh parsley or basil if preferred.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	220–250 kcal
Protein	6 g
Carbohydrates	20 g
Fat	15 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	6 g

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a side dish for grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish.
• Pair with tacos or quesadillas for a fresh, flavorful complement.
• Include in a picnic or potluck spread—its vibrant colors and flavor are always a hit.
• Enjoy as a light lunch on its own, with a slice of crusty bread or tortilla chips.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Keep the dressing separate until just before serving to prevent the corn and vegetables from becoming soggy.

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

Absolutely. Frozen corn works perfectly—just blanch it in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, drain, and use as directed in the recipe.

3. How can I make this salad vegetarian?

Simply skip the bacon and add roasted chickpeas, toasted nuts, or crispy tempeh for crunch and protein.

4. Can I add cheese to the salad?

Yes! Shredded cheddar, crumbled feta, or Cotija cheese pairs wonderfully with the sweet corn and smoky bacon flavor.

5. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1–2 days. Add the dressing right before serving to maintain freshness.

Conclusion

Sweet corn salad with bacon is a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. Easy to prepare, versatile, and full of texture, it’s the perfect side dish for almost any occasion. With fresh corn, crisp vegetables, creamy dressing, and crispy bacon, every bite delivers satisfaction while still feeling light and refreshing. This salad is proof that simple ingredients can come together to create something truly irresistible—perfect for everyday meals or entertaining guests.