This Easy Frito Corn Salad is a fun and crunchy dish that you can whip up in no time! It mixes sweet corn, crunchy Fritos, and zesty dressing for a tasty treat.
I love serving this salad at BBQs because it always brings a smile. Plus, who can resist those crunchy Fritos? They make everything better! 😄
Making this salad is super easy—just toss everything together and chill. It’s perfect for a hot day when you want something refreshing and quick!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Kernel Corn: This adds a sweet crunch to the salad. If you don’t have canned corn, fresh corn off the cob or frozen corn can work well. Just make sure to cook it first if using frozen.
Cream-Style Corn: It gives the salad a creamy texture. You can blend regular corn until it’s smooth if you can’t find cream-style corn. Just a quick whizz in the blender will do!
Mayonnaise: It’s the base for the salad’s creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt makes a great substitute! Some even like to use a mix of both for flavor and texture.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a beautiful sharpness. If you want to switch things up, feel free to use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little spice. Even vegan cheese works if you prefer a dairy-free option.
Red Onion: This adds a nice bite. If red onion feels too strong for your taste, use green onions or sweet onions instead. You can even soak them in cold water for a milder flavor.
How Do I Keep the Fritos Crunchy in My Salad?
If you want your Fritos to stay crispy, it’s best to add them just before serving. Mixing them in too early can make them soggy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Prepare the corn mixture first and let it chill as needed.
- Just when you’re ready to serve, carefully fold in the Fritos. This way, they’ll retain their crunch and add that beautiful texture contrast!
How to Make Easy Frito Corn Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (15 oz) can of whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can of cream-style corn
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1 (9.25 oz) bag of Fritos corn chips
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Frito Corn Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You can serve it immediately or allow it to chill in the fridge for a bit if you’d like, making it a great last-minute side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn Mixture:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Open the cans of whole kernel corn and cream-style corn. Drain the liquid from the whole kernel corn and add both types of corn to the bowl. Give them a good mix to combine.
2. Add the Creaminess:
Now, it’s time to add some creaminess! Spoon in the 1 cup of mayonnaise and stir everything together until the mixture is nice and smooth. This will be the base of your salad!
3. Mix in the Veggies and Cheese:
Next, add your shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped red onion, diced green bell pepper, and diced tomatoes if you’re using them. Fold these ingredients in gently until they’re evenly mixed throughout the corn mixture.
4. Season to Taste:
Time to bring some flavor to the mix! Sprinkle in salt and pepper according to your preference. If you like a zesty kick, don’t forget to add the lime juice. Give everything one final stir to combine the flavors.
5. Add the Fritos:
Just before serving, take your bag of Fritos corn chips and gently fold them into the salad. This keeps them from getting soggy and helps maintain their crunchy texture, which is the best part!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Now you’re ready to serve! This delicious salad can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. It’s perfect as a side for barbecues, picnics, or potlucks. Dig in and savor the delightful mix of flavors and textures!
Can I Use Fresh Corn Instead of Canned Corn?
Absolutely! You can use fresh corn on the cob instead of canned corn. Just cook the fresh corn by boiling or grilling it, then cut the kernels off the cob. Use about 2 cups of fresh corn to replace the canned varieties.
How Can I Make This Salad Healthier?
To lighten up the salad, consider using Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise, or you can use reduced-fat mayonnaise. Additionally, you can increase the vegetable content by adding diced cucumbers or shredded carrots.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Definitely! This salad tastes even better after sitting for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld. Just prepare it a few hours ahead of time and refrigerate it. Make sure to add the Fritos just before serving to keep them crunchy!
How to Store Leftover Frito Corn Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If it gets a bit watery from the vegetables, just give it a good stir before serving again. You might want to add a few more Fritos for extra crunch!
