Description

This easy Frito corn salad is a crunchy, creamy, and tangy summer BBQ side dish that comes together in minutes. Packed with sweet corn, colorful peppers, cheddar cheese, and zippy dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cans (15 oz each) sweet corn, drained (or 3 cups frozen/thawed or fresh corn)
1 medium red bell pepper, diced
1 medium green bell pepper, diced
4 green onions, thinly sliced (white and green parts)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
1 bag (9.25 oz) Fritos corn chips, slightly crushed

Instructions

Drain the corn well. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry.
Dice the red and green bell peppers. Thinly slice the green onions.
In a large mixing bowl, combine corn, diced peppers, green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese. Toss gently.
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (if using), lime juice, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Pour the dressing over the corn mixture and gently fold until evenly coated.
Cover and chill the salad for at least 30 minutes for best flavor (optional, but recommended).
Just before serving, gently fold in the Fritos, reserving a few for garnish.
Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with extra green onions or diced peppers if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Add Fritos just before serving to keep them crunchy. For a lighter version, use half light mayo and Greek yogurt. You can make the salad base up to 4 hours ahead and chill; store Fritos separately. Add jalapeño for heat, black beans for a Southwest twist, or use vegan mayo and cheese for a dairy-free version. Always check Fritos and mayo for gluten if needed.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: About 1 cup
Calories: 340
Sugar: 4
Sodium: 480
Fat: 22
Saturated Fat: 6
Carbohydrates: 28
Fiber: 2
Protein: 6

Keywords: Frito corn salad, summer salad, BBQ side, potluck, easy salad, corn salad, crunchy salad, picnic, party food, gluten-free option