Bacon Blue Cheese Corn Salad

Name: Bacon Blue Cheese Corn Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 strips bacon, chopped; 2 tablespoons butter; 3 shallots, thinly sliced; ½ teaspoon white pepper; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 5-6 ears corn, kernels removed (or about 3 cups of canned corn, drained); ½ cup heavy cream; 1½ tablespoons lemon juice, plus 2 teaspoons zest; ½ cup blue cheese, crumbled; 3 tablespoons chives, chopped (for garnish); Salt to taste

Recipe By:

jesseca

Posted:

April 6, 2025

Updated:

April 6, 2025

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This Bacon Blue Cheese Corn Salad is one of those recipes that makes you feel good just thinking about it. The crispy bacon adds a satisfying crunch, while the blue cheese brings a tangy richness that complements the sweetness of fresh corn perfectly. Imagine tossing juicy kernels together with decadent bacon and creamy dressing; it’s the kind of dish that draws you in and makes your mouth water. It’s not just any salad—this is a celebration of flavors and textures all in one bowl.

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Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a cozy dinner, or just craving something delicious, this salad has got you covered. Plus, it’s visually stunning, with vibrant colors that brighten up your table. You’ll love the way it pairs with grilled meats, or even as a stand-alone dish for a light lunch. Let’s get started by exploring why this recipe is a gem and how you can whip it up easily in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Works

This Bacon Blue Cheese Corn Salad brings together an exciting medley of flavors. The crispy bacon creates a savory crunch, which perfectly contrasts with the creamy blue cheese. Combined with sweet, juicy corn, the textures work harmoniously to create every bite an experience. Moreover, the addition of spices and a zesty dressing enhances the overall taste, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Bacon Blue Cheese Corn Salad

It’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of flavors! This recipe shines brightly at summer barbecues yet serves as a comforting side dish during the chillier months. The creamy dressing and vibrant ingredients make it not only delicious but also visually stunning. Imagine serving this delightful dish to your friends and family, as it garners compliments almost immediately. It’s one of those recipes that you will want to keep close at hand.

Ingredients

To whip up this fabulous Bacon Blue Cheese Corn Salad, you will need:

4 strips bacon, chopped
2 tablespoons butter
3 shallots, thinly sliced
½ teaspoon white pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
5-6 ears corn, kernels removed (or about 3 cups of canned corn, drained)
½ cup heavy cream
1½ tablespoons lemon juice, plus 2 teaspoons zest
½ cup blue cheese, crumbled
3 tablespoons chives, chopped (for garnish)
Salt to taste

Preparing the Bacon

Crisp the Bacon in Skillet

Start by adding the chopped bacon to a medium skillet along with about 1/3 cup of water. Bring the heat to medium and allow the bacon to cook for 15-20 minutes. This slow cooking lets the fat render out beautifully, making your bacon crispy and delicious.

Remove and Reserve Bacon Fat

Once your bacon is crispy and golden, reduce the heat to medium-low. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet, but be sure to leave behind about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat. This will add incredible flavor to the next steps!

Sautéing Shallots

Cook Shallots Until Soft

In that same skillet, add the butter and the sliced shallots. Cook them for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them soft and fragrant but not browned, enhancing the flavors in your salad.

Adding Spices and Corn

Incorporate Spices

Next, stir in the white pepper and smoked paprika. Cooking these spices for about a minute will release their warm aromas, setting the stage for the corn to shine.

Add the Corn

Now, mix in the corn kernels and sprinkle in some salt as needed. Allow the corn to cook for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally while it’s cooking until the corn becomes tender and sweet.

Creating the Creamy Base

Mix in Cream and Bacon

To start forming that rich base, add the heavy cream and the crispy bacon you set aside earlier. Cook everything together for an additional 12-15 minutes; by now, the cream should thicken nicely. Stir frequently to prevent any sticking.

Finish with Lemon

Once thickened, take your skillet off the heat. Fold in the fresh lemon zest and juice for that zesty kick that perfectly balances the richness of the dish.

Garnishing the Salad

Top with Blue Cheese and Chives

For the finishing touch, transfer the salad to a serving dish. Sprinkle it generously with crumbled blue cheese and toss on some chopped chives. Not only does this add a pop of color, but it also enhances the flavor profile beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

This Bacon Blue Cheese Corn Salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or steak, making it a versatile side for any meal. You could also enjoy it on its own for a delightful lunch option. Imagine serving it at a backyard barbecue; it’s sure to be the talk of the party!

Tips for Success

For the best flavor, use fresh corn when it’s in season.
Adjust the amount of blue cheese based on your taste preference; some enjoy a stronger flavor, while others may prefer a milder note.
To save time during meal prep, pre-cook the bacon and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to whip up the salad.

Variations

Feel free to get creative! You can substitute blue cheese with feta cheese if you prefer a different flavor profile. Adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños can introduce an extra crunch or a spicy kick. For added creaminess and healthy fats, consider mixing in avocado as well.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can gently reheat it on the stovetop or savor it cold!

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
A1: Yes, frozen corn works perfectly! Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to your salad.

Q2: What can I use if I don’t have blue cheese?
A2: Feta or goat cheese can make excellent substitutes for blue cheese.

Q3: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A3: You absolutely can. Prepare it a day in advance, but keep toppings separate until just before serving for the best taste.

Q4: Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
A4: Absolutely! Properly store it in containers and keep garnishes separate until you’re ready to eat.

Q5: How can I make this vegetarian?
A5: Simply omit the bacon and use olive oil for cooking. Adding a little smoked paprika can still give you that depth of flavor.

This Bacon Blue Cheese Corn Salad is a fabulous blend of savory and refreshing flavors. It’s bound to become a staple in your culinary adventures, bringing joy to your taste buds. Enjoy cooking this easy-to-follow recipe, and share the goodness with friends and family, creating unforgettable dining experiences along the way!

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Bacon Blue Cheese Corn Salad

Why This Recipe Works

Why You’ll Love This Bacon Blue Cheese Corn Salad

Ingredients