Crack Corn Salad Recipe: A Refreshing Delight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crack Corn Salad is a perfect combination of flavors and textures that make it an instant favorite. The sweetness of corn pairs beautifully with the smoky, savory brisket and the sharpness of cheddar cheese. The creamy ranch dressing ties it all together, while the jalapeño adds just the right amount of heat. This salad is not only refreshing but also incredibly versatile, making it the ideal side dish for any barbecue, picnic, or casual dinner. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be served in no time!

Ingredients

• 4 cups sweet corn (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)

• 12 slices smoked brisket meat, finely chopped

• ¼ cup green onions, chopped

• 1 jalapeño, finely diced

• ½ cup Ranch salad dressing (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

• Juice of 1 lime

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• Kosher salt, to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For homemade ranch dressing (optional):

• 1½ cups mayonnaise

• ½ cup sour cream

• ⅓ cup whole milk

• ¼ cup buttermilk

• ¼ teaspoon onion powder

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon fresh dill

• Salt and pepper, to taste

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

Directions

1. If making homemade ranch dressing, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, buttermilk, onion powder, garlic, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside or refrigerate.

2. Prepare the salad: In a large bowl, combine the sweet corn, smoked brisket meat, green onions, jalapeño, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper.

3. Add ½ cup of ranch dressing to the mixture and stir until everything is well coated. Adjust the amount of dressing to your desired creaminess level.

4. Optional: Chill for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Spice level: Adjust the spice by using more or less jalapeño. For a milder version, substitute with bell peppers.

• Grilled corn: If you want a smoky flavor, use fresh grilled corn instead of regular sweet corn.

• Cheese swap: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for different flavor profiles.

• Vegetarian option: Skip the smoked brisket meat and add more veggies like diced bell peppers or cucumbers for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Crack Corn Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: This salad is best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. However, if you prefer, you can allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?

Yes, frozen corn works perfectly! Just thaw it before using it in the salad.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, letting it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving helps the flavors come together beautifully.

3. What can I substitute for smoked brisket meat?

If you prefer a different protein, you can substitute the smoked brisket meat with shredded chicken, or even grilled sausage.

4. Can I use a different cheese?

Yes! While cheddar is the classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even pepper jack for a bit of heat.

5. How can I make this salad spicier?

Increase the amount of jalapeño or add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for more heat.

6. Is there a dairy-free version of this salad?

Yes, you can substitute the ranch dressing with a dairy-free version and use a dairy-free cheese alternative for the cheddar.

7. Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! You can add diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or even cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and flavor.

8. How do I make homemade ranch dressing?

To make homemade ranch, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, whole milk, buttermilk, garlic, onion powder, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper until smooth.

9. Can I use pre-cooked smoked brisket?

Yes, you can use store-bought pre-cooked smoked brisket for convenience, just be sure to chop it into small pieces.

10. How long will the salad last in the fridge?

The salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

This Crack Corn Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that will quickly become a go-to favorite for your gatherings. It combines fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and plenty of crunch, making it the perfect side dish to complement any meal. Whether you make it for a casual weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!

Print