Zesty Zucchini Corn Salad 🌽🥒

This vibrant and refreshing salad is a delightful way to enjoy summer's bounty. The combination of fresh zucchini and sweet corn, tossed with a zesty lime dressing, makes for a perfect side dish or light lunch. Serve it at a barbecue or picnic, and watch it disappear!

Ingredients

For the salad

• 2 medium zucchinis, diced
• 1 cup of fresh or frozen corn (if using frozen, thaw first)
• 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 avocado, diced (optional, but recommended for creaminess)

For the dressing

• Juice of 2 limes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon honey or agave (for a vegan option)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• In a large bowl, combine the diced zucchini, corn, bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro.

🥗 For a more tender zucchini, consider lightly sautéing the diced zucchini in a pan with a bit of olive oil for 3-5 minutes, then let it cool before adding it to the salad.

• In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.

• Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.

• If using, gently fold in the diced avocado right before serving to keep it from getting mushy.

🥑 For added flavor, you can also sprinkle in some crumbled feta cheese or cotija cheese!

Variations

• Add protein: Toss in some black beans or grilled chicken for a heartier salad. 🍗
• Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick! 🔥
• Herb lovers: Substitute cilantro with fresh basil or parsley for a different flavor profile. 🌿
• Grilled version: Grill the zucchini and corn for a smoky flavor. Just toss them on the grill for a few minutes before combining them with the other salad ingredients.

Storage

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors will meld together beautifully! Just be cautious with the avocado; if you add it, it might brown.

Enjoy your Zesty Zucchini Corn Salad with friends and family! 🌟🥳