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This tangy and creamy crack corn salad brings together sweet corn and savory turkey bacon in perfect harmony. The homemade ranch dressing ties all the ingredients together for a dish that disappears quickly at every potluck and family gathering.
I first made this when looking for ways to use up summer corn, and it quickly became our most requested dish for neighborhood gatherings. The combination of sweet corn with the smoky turkey bacon creates an addictive flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- Sweet corn: fresh corn kernels provide the best texture and sweetness, but thawed frozen corn works well in a pinch
- Turkey bacon: offers a leaner alternative to traditional bacon while still providing that essential smoky flavor
- Green onions: add a mild onion flavor that complements the corn without overpowering it
- Jalapeño: provides a customizable heat level depending on whether you include seeds and membrane
- Ranch dressing: ties everything together with its creamy tanginess
- Cheddar cheese: sharp cheddar provides the best flavor contrast to the sweet corn
- Lime juice: brightens all the flavors and balances the richness of the cheese and dressing
- Garlic powder: adds depth without the harshness of fresh garlic in this cold salad
- Salt and pepper: essential for bringing out all the flavors
- Mayonnaise: creates the rich base for the dressing
- Sour cream: adds tanginess and creaminess
- Milk and buttermilk: thin the dressing to the perfect consistency while adding flavor
- Garlic and onion powder: provide that classic ranch flavor profile
- Fresh dill: gives a bright, herbaceous note that elevates homemade ranch above storebought
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the ranch dressing:
- Combine all dressing ingredients in a large bowl and whisk thoroughly until smooth. The consistency should be pourable but thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Let the mixture sit for at least 10 minutes before using to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook the corn:
- If using fresh corn, shuck the ears and remove all silk. Cut kernels from the cob by standing the ear upright and carefully slicing downward with a sharp knife. For extra flavor, you can quickly sauté the corn in a hot skillet for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly charred, then allow to cool completely.
- Prepare the bacon:
- Cook turkey bacon according to package directions until crispy. Allow to cool completely, then chop into small pieces. The bacon provides texture contrast and a savory element that balances the sweetness of the corn.
- Chop the vegetables:
- Finely dice the jalapeño, removing seeds and membrane for milder heat or leaving some in for more spice. Thinly slice green onions, using both white and green parts for balanced flavor.
- Combine all ingredients:
- In a large bowl, add corn, chopped bacon, green onions, jalapeño, shredded cheese, lime juice, and garlic powder. The lime juice not only adds flavor but helps prevent the avocado from browning if you choose to add it.
- Add dressing and season:
- Pour the ranch dressing over the mixture and gently fold until all ingredients are evenly coated. Start with less dressing than you think you need, as you can always add more. Season with salt and pepper to taste, being careful not to oversalt as the bacon and cheese already contain sodium.
- Chill and serve:
- For best results, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. The salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance, though you may want to add a small amount of fresh dressing just before serving to refresh it.
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My family particularly loves when I add diced avocado just before serving for extra creaminess. The first time I brought this to our neighborhood block party, three different people asked for the recipe before the evening was over. Now it's my signature contribution to every summer gathering.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of corn should I use?
You can use fresh, canned, or frozen sweet corn, depending on preference and availability.
- → Can this salad be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. For best results, chill it to meld the flavors together.
- → Is there an alternative to turkey bacon?
Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon with regular bacon, plant-based bacon, or omit it altogether for a vegetarian option.
- → How spicy does the addition of jalapeño make it?
The jalapeño adds a mild to moderate spice. Adjust the quantity or remove the seeds to control the heat level.
- → Can I use store-bought Ranch instead of making it?
Yes, store-bought Ranch dressing works as a convenient alternative, though homemade offers a fresher, richer taste.