If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant salad that combines crunchy cucumbers with the smoky sweetness of street corn and a creamy dressing that ties everything together, you’re in for a treat. This Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe brings together juicy rotisserie chicken, crisp veggies, and a zesty, spicy kick that makes it the perfect light meal or side dish for any occasion. It’s quick to prepare, bursting with bright flavors, and so satisfyingly creamy, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this salad lies in using straightforward, wholesome ingredients that each add something special to the final dish. From the refreshing crunch of cucumbers to the smoky warmth of chili powder, every component plays a vital role in creating a balanced and flavorful salad.
- English cucumbers (1 1/2, sliced): Crisp and refreshing, cucumbers are the cool base that balances the creamy dressing.
- Rotisserie chicken (2 cups, chopped): Adds hearty protein and savory depth without fuss.
- Cilantro (1/4 cup, minced): Brings a fresh, herby brightness that lifts the entire salad.
- Green onions (3, sliced): Introduce a mild onion flavor with a little crunch.
- Jalapeno (1, seeded and diced): Delivers a gentle heat that wakes up your taste buds.
- Red onion (1/4, diced): Adds sharpness and a pop of color for visual appeal.
- Red bell pepper (1/2, diced): Sweet, crunchy, and colorful, balancing the spice and creaminess.
- Sweet corn (1 can, drained): The star ingredient bringing that iconic street corn sweetness and texture.
- Plain Greek yogurt (1/2 cup, 2% or higher): Provides tangy creaminess and healthy protein.
- Mayonnaise (1/3 cup): Adds richness, helping the dressing cling beautifully to every bite.
- Lime (juice and zest of 1): Injects citrusy brightness that brightens the creamy dressing.
- Garlic (1 clove, finely minced): Gives a subtle savory punch to the dressing.
- Chili powder (1 tsp): Adds smoky warmth and a slight kick to the dressing.
- Paprika (1/2 tsp): Enhances color and adds a mild, sweet earthiness.
- Cumin (1/2 tsp): Provides a warm, nutty undertone that complements the other spices.
- Salt and freshly cracked pepper (1/4 tsp each): Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors perfectly.
How to Make Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Start by halving and slicing your English cucumbers, then lay them out in a single layer on paper towels. Top them with more paper towels and gently press to draw out excess moisture. This step is crucial because it keeps your salad crisp and prevents it from becoming watery once mixed with the dressing.
Step 2: Whisk the Creamy Dressing
In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, fresh lime juice and zest, your chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth. Taste the dressing and feel free to adjust by adding a pinch more cumin or chili powder if you want an extra flavor boost. The dressing is the soul of this salad and packing it with vibrant spices makes all the difference.
Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and add the dried cucumber slices along with your drained sweet corn, chopped rotisserie chicken, minced cilantro, sliced green onions, diced jalapeno, diced red onion, and diced red bell pepper. This mix balances crunchy, creamy, spicy, and sweet elements beautifully.
Step 4: Dress and Toss
Pour most of the prepared dressing over your salad veggies and chicken. Use a spatula to gently toss until every bite is evenly coated in that luscious dressing. Add the remaining dressing if you prefer it a little saucier. Chill the salad briefly to let the flavors marry before serving.
How to Serve Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle extra chopped cilantro and a little crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese on top. A dusting of paprika or additional lime wedges on the side adds a pop of color and zest that guests will love.
Side Dishes
This salad shines beautifully alongside grilled meats like chicken, steak, or shrimp. It also pairs well with warm tortillas or crusty bread, making it an excellent companion for casual backyard barbecues or festive taco nights.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this salad in a vibrant, colorful bowl to highlight its freshness, or fill small lettuce cups for a fun, hand-held appetizer option. For a picnic or potluck, layering the salad in individual clear jars lets everyone appreciate the vivid colors before digging in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers refrigerated in a tightly sealed container to maintain freshness. The salad holds well for up to 2 days, though the cucumbers may release more water over time, so give it a gentle stir before serving again.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well. The cucumber and fresh vegetables will become watery and lose their crisp texture after freezing and thawing, so it’s better to make it fresh or within a couple of days.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat this salad since it’s meant to be served chilled. However, if you add the salad alongside warm dishes, letting it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes will soften the chill without sacrificing the refreshing element.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of canned corn?
Absolutely! Fresh corn cut off the cob adds a sweeter, crunchier element. Just lightly cook or roast the corn first for that characteristic street corn flavor before mixing it in.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, sour cream or a plant-based yogurt alternative can work, though the tang and creaminess might differ slightly. Adjust seasonings to balance accordingly.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild kick thanks to the jalapeno and chili powder, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can easily reduce or omit the jalapeno if you prefer something gentler.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Yes! Simply leave out the chicken and perhaps add extra corn or some black beans for protein. The flavors still hold up wonderfully.
How long does it take to prepare this salad?
One of the best things about the Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe is how quick it is to put together. You’re looking at about 15 minutes from start to finish, including prep time!
Final Thoughts
This Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe is one of those wonderfully easy dishes that impresses without fuss. The perfect balance of creamy, crisp, spicy, and fresh keeps every bite exciting. Whether you’re making a quick lunch or an eye-catching side for your next gathering, this salad promises to become a cherished favorite in your rotation. Give it a try and get ready to fall in love with all its vibrant flavors!
Print
Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This refreshing Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad combines crisp cucumber slices, sweet corn, and tender rotisserie chicken tossed in a tangy, creamy dressing with Greek yogurt and mayo, seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and fresh lime, making it a perfect light and flavorful summer dish ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Protein
- 1 1/2 English cucumbers (halved and sliced, about 3 cups)
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken (chopped)
- 1/4 cup cilantro (minced)
- 3 green onions (sliced)
- 1 jalapeno (seeded and diced)
- 1/4 red onion (diced)
- 1/2 red bell pepper (seeded and diced)
- 15.25 oz can sweet corn (drained)
Dressing
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or higher for creaminess)
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 lime (juice and zest)
- 1 clove garlic (finely minced or grated)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked pepper
Instructions
- Dry the Cucumbers: Lay the cucumber slices in a single layer on paper towels, then add another layer of paper towels on top. Press gently into the cucumbers to absorb excess moisture. Leave them to dry under the paper towels while preparing the other ingredients to ensure a crisp salad texture.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lime juice and zest, chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Whisk thoroughly until smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired, adding a bit more cumin or chili powder if preferred for extra flavor.
- Mix Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried cucumber slices, drained sweet corn, chopped rotisserie chicken, minced cilantro, sliced green onions, diced jalapeno, red onion, and red bell pepper. Ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Toss with Dressing: Pour most of the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Use a spatula to gently fold and mix until everything is evenly coated with the creamy dressing. Add any remaining dressing based on your preference for creaminess.
- Serve and Store: Serve the salad chilled for best flavor. Store leftovers in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to 2 days.
Notes
- Pressing the cucumbers dry is essential to prevent a watery salad and maintain crispness.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeno based on your heat tolerance or omit for a milder version.
- Rotisserie chicken adds convenience and rich flavor, but you can substitute with grilled or shredded cooked chicken.
- This salad is best served chilled and consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.
- For a dairy-free version, replace Greek yogurt with a non-dairy alternative and use a vegan mayonnaise.
