Sweet Corn Peach Salad

This vibrant sweet corn salad with peaches is my go-to summer side dish. Crisp corn, juicy peaches, creamy avocado, tangy lime and a touch of honey create a fresh and colorful salad that steals the show at any gathering. It comes together in just twenty minutes with simple prep and no cooking fuss. Every forkful bursts with sunshine flavors—if you bring this to a cookout, expect everyone to ask for the recipe.

I first brought this to a July picnic and watched it disappear even before the grilled burgers hit the table. Now my friends request it for every backyard barbecue.

Ingredients

• Fresh corn on the cob: The foundation of the salad with crisp texture and sweet flavor Use peak summer corn and get it as fresh as possible
• Peaches: Brings juicy sweetness to every bite Ripe but still slightly firm peaches work best so they hold their shape
• Red onion: Finely chopped for zesty crunch Look for bright purple color and firm bulbs
• Cilantro: Adds a grassy freshness Choose vibrant green leaves and avoid wilted bunches
• Jalapeño: For a gentle heat and flavor Remove seeds for less spice Use shiny firm jalapeños
• Avocado: Adds creaminess and richness Pick just ripe fruit that gives slightly to a gentle squeeze to avoid mushiness
• Lime juice: The backbone of the vinaigrette Use freshly squeezed for the brightest flavor
• Honey: Sweetens the dressing and balances the lime Try to use pure raw honey if possible
• Salt and black pepper: For seasoning and bringing out all the flavors Use flaked or kosher salt for best results

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Corn:

Cook your corn cobs using your favorite method Boiling or steaming works well Let them cool completely to avoid wilting the salad Once cooled carefully cut the kernels off the cobs and place them in a large mixing bowl

Make the Vinaigrette:

In a small bowl whisk together the lime juice and honey Stir thoroughly to dissolve the honey fully Add black pepper to taste The vinaigrette should be glossy and pourable

Combine and Toss:

Add the peaches red onion cilantro and jalapeño to the corn in the bowl Pour in the vinaigrette and toss gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated Taste and sprinkle in salt as needed Toss again to incorporate seasoning without breaking up the fruit

Chill the Salad:

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for about ten to twenty minutes This resting time helps the flavors meld and keeps the salad crisp and refreshing

Serve with Avocado:

Either gently fold in diced avocado just before serving or serve the avocado on top of each bowl for a prettier presentation Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture

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I absolutely love how the honey lime vinaigrette ties everything together My kids adore helping to whisk it up and drizzle it over the salad I always save a bit to use later for grilled veggies

Storage Tips

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days For best results add the avocado just before serving since it can brown quickly If you need to prep in advance dice the avocado and toss it with extra lime juice to keep it fresh

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap white peaches or nectarines if yellow peaches are out of season Replace cilantro with fresh mint or basil for a different but equally refreshing green Turn down the spice by using half a bell pepper instead of jalapeño

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Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for a lighter evening meal It works beautifully as a taco filling or spooned over warm rice Add a few crumbles of feta or goat cheese if you want some extra tang

Cultural Notes

Fresh corn salads like this are a summertime staple all over the Americas Corn and stone fruit both have histories deeply rooted in native agriculture in the United States Plus honey lime dressings are classic in Southern home cooking for brightening produce with a bit of sweetness

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use frozen or canned corn?

Fresh corn gives the best texture, but you can substitute frozen or canned corn; just drain and pat dry before using.

→ How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Add avocado right before serving, and toss gently with lime juice to help prevent browning and keep it fresh.

→ What can I substitute for cilantro?

If you prefer, swap cilantro for fresh parsley or basil, both of which complement the sweet and tangy flavors nicely.

→ Is this dish served cold or at room temperature?

This salad is best served chilled; refrigerate briefly after tossing for extra crispness and flavor meld.

→ How spicy is the jalapeño?

With seeds removed, jalapeño adds a mild kick. For less heat, use half or omit entirely. Adjust to your taste.

→ Can I make this in advance?

You can prepare ahead by mixing all ingredients except avocado. Add avocado just before serving for peak freshness.