Barefoot Contessa Fresh Corn Salad

Looking for a refreshing, simple side that showcases the natural sweetness of corn? Ina Garten’s Fresh Corn Salad is a celebration of seasonal ingredients. With crisp corn kernels, vibrant herbs, and a light vinaigrette, this chilled salad is ideal for barbecues, picnics, or light lunches.

What Is Barefoot Contessa Fresh Corn Salad?

This salad features blanched fresh corn, tossed with red onion, fresh basil, and a light vinaigrette of olive oil and vinegar. It’s slightly tangy, naturally sweet, and gets better as it chills. Ina keeps it simple, allowing the ingredients to shine.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Barefoot Contessa Smoked Salmon Deviled Eggs
• Ina Garten Make-Ahead Cranberry Sauce
• Ina Garten Turkey Meatballs

Reasons to Try Barefoot Contessa Fresh Corn Salad

• Quick and easy – Only 15 minutes from start to finish
• Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian – Crowd-friendly
• Bright and refreshing – No heavy dressing
• Perfect for summer – Best with peak-season corn
• Great for make-ahead meals – Stays crisp in the fridge
• Pairs well with almost anything – Versatile side dish
• Simple ingredients, big flavor – Classic Ina Garten approach

Ingredients Needed to Make Barefoot Contessa Fresh Corn Salad

• 5 ears of fresh corn, husked
• ½ cup small-diced red onion
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 3 tablespoons good olive oil
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ cup chopped fresh basil leaves

Instructions to Prepare Barefoot Contessa Fresh Corn Salad

Step 1: Cook the Corn

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the corn and cook uncovered for 3–4 minutes until just tender but still crisp. Do not overcook.

Step 2: Cool and Cut the Corn

Drain the corn and immerse it in cold water to stop the cooking. Once cool, cut the kernels off the cob by standing each ear upright and slicing downward.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, toss the corn kernels with the red onion, vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Step 4: Add Fresh Basil and Chill

Just before serving, fold in the chopped basil. Serve cold or at room temperature.

What to Serve With Fresh Corn Salad

• Grilled chicken or steak – A light and sweet contrast
• Barbecue ribs or pulled pork – Cuts through the richness
• Burgers and sandwiches – Perfect summer side
• Grilled seafood – Complements shrimp, scallops, or salmon
• Frittatas or quiche – Great brunch addition
• Roasted vegetable platters – Adds color and flavor
• Cold pasta or potato salads – Rounds out the spread

Expert Tips for Mastering the Recipe

• Use the freshest corn possible – Sweetness and crunch depend on it
• Don’t overcook the corn – You want it tender-crisp
• Dice the onion finely – So it doesn’t overpower
• Add basil just before serving – Keeps it green and aromatic
• Let the salad chill – Flavors meld beautifully over time
• Taste and adjust seasoning – Especially before serving
• Use a serrated knife for easier corn cutting – Keeps kernels intact

Variations of the Recipe

• Add cherry tomatoes or cucumber – For extra freshness
• Include feta or goat cheese crumbles – For creaminess
• Toss in avocado chunks – For richness and texture
• Use white balsamic vinegar – For a sweeter vinaigrette
• Swap basil with cilantro or parsley – To change the herb profile
• Add a pinch of chili flakes – For a subtle kick
• Use grilled corn – For a smoky flavor twist

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerate in an airtight container – Stays fresh up to 3 days
• Add basil fresh each time – Avoids wilting
• Stir before serving – Redistributes dressing
• Don’t freeze – Texture will become soggy
• Label and date – For best freshness
• Avoid direct sunlight or heat – Serve cold or at room temp
• Use clean utensils – Helps prevent spoilage

How Do I Reuse Fresh Corn Salad?

• Spoon into tacos or burritos – Adds crunch and flavor
• Mix with quinoa or farro – For a quick grain salad
• Add to lettuce wraps or sandwich wraps – Brightens them up
• Serve over grilled fish or chicken – Works like a relish
• Toss into a green salad – Adds texture and sweetness
• Use in omelets or frittatas – A flavorful filling
• Stir into cold pasta salads – For added dimension

Nutritional Value (per ¾ cup serving)

• Calories: 140
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 200mg

FAQs

Can I make Barefoot Contessa’s corn salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just add the basil right before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.

Can I use frozen or canned corn instead of fresh?

Fresh corn is best for texture and sweetness, but thawed frozen corn is a good alternative. Avoid canned corn as it lacks crunch and flavor.

How do I cut corn off the cob easily?

Stand the corn vertically in a wide bowl and slice downward with a sharp or serrated knife to catch the kernels as they fall.

How long does fresh corn salad last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to 3 days. Stir before serving and refresh with extra herbs if needed.

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Final Words

Barefoot Contessa’s Fresh Corn Salad is a must-make for summer and beyond. It’s simple, seasonal, and versatile—everything you want in a side dish. With sweet corn, sharp red onion, and bright basil, this salad brings freshness to any meal with very little effort.