Fritos Corn Salad
This vibrant Fritos Corn Salad is a delightful blend of sweet corn, crisp bell pepper, creamy cheese, and the irresistible crunch of Chili Cheese Fritos. It’s a super quick, no-cook side dish that’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or any gathering where you need a crowd-pleasing, flavorful dish that comes together in minutes. Its unique texture and savory-spicy kick make it an instant hit.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes (includes chilling)
Servings
6 to 8 servings
Keywords
Why This Recipe Delivers
- Unbeatable combination of creamy and crunchy textures.
- Incredibly quick and easy to prepare with no cooking required.
- Packed with savory, sweet, and zesty flavors that are universally loved.
- Perfect for any gathering, from casual barbecues to festive potlucks.
- A fun and unique twist on traditional corn salads.
Ingredients
- 850 grams (2 x 425g cans) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 medium red bell pepper (approximately 150 grams), finely diced
- 250 grams (2 cups) shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 240 milliliters (1 cup) mayonnaise (full-fat or light)
- 1.25 milliliters (1/4 teaspoon) freshly ground black pepper
- 260 grams (1 bag, 9.25 ounces) Chili Cheese Fritos, lightly crushed
- 30 grams (1/4 cup) fresh cilantro, roughly chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare your fresh ingredients. Begin by thoroughly draining the two cans of whole kernel corn, pressing out any excess liquid to prevent a watery salad. Next, finely dice the red bell pepper into small, uniform pieces, ensuring each bite offers a balanced texture and flavor. If using, roughly chop the fresh cilantro for your garnish.
- Combine the creamy base. In a large mixing bowl, gently add the well-drained whole kernel corn, the finely diced red bell pepper, the shredded Mexican blend cheese, the creamy mayonnaise, and the freshly ground black pepper.
- Mix until evenly coated. Using a sturdy spatula or a large spoon, thoroughly stir all the ingredients together. The goal is to ensure the corn and bell pepper are completely and evenly coated with the mayonnaise and cheese, creating a cohesive and flavorful mixture.
- Allow flavors to meld and chill. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the corn salad for a minimum of 30 minutes. This crucial chilling period allows the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully, and the salad will achieve an optimal refreshing temperature for serving.
- Incorporate the signature crunch. Just before you are ready to serve the salad, retrieve it from the refrigerator. Add the lightly crushed Chili Cheese Fritos to the chilled corn mixture. Gently fold them in with a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the salad while still retaining their satisfying crunch. Avoid overmixing to prevent the Fritos from becoming soggy.
- Garnish and serve immediately. Transfer the finished Zesty Fritos Corn Salad to an attractive serving bowl. If desired, sprinkle the fresh chopped cilantro over the top for a vibrant splash of color and a hint of fresh herbaceousness. Serve the salad promptly to enjoy the maximum crispness of the Fritos.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Can opener
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or large mixing spoon
- Plastic wrap
Essential Success Tips
- Ensure the corn is very well-drained to prevent a watery salad. Patting it dry with a paper towel after draining can help.
- Dice the red bell pepper finely and uniformly so that it blends well with the corn and cheese.
- Always add the Fritos just before serving to maintain their maximum crispness and prevent them from getting soggy.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop and meld.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before adding Fritos. A pinch of salt or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavors.
Professional Cooking Secrets
- For an extra layer of flavor complexity, briefly toast a small amount of cumin seeds in a dry pan, then grind them and add a tiny pinch to the salad base.
- To elevate the creamy texture, consider adding a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt along with the mayonnaise. This adds a subtle tanginess and extra richness.
- If making a larger batch, store the base salad mixture separately and only combine with Fritos in smaller portions as needed, to ensure every serving is perfectly crunchy.
Notes
- Storage: Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days, though the Fritos will lose their crispness over time.
- Variations: Feel free to add finely chopped green onions, a squeeze of lime juice for extra zest, or a pinch of chili powder for more heat.
- Serving Suggestion: This salad is fantastic alongside grilled chicken, barbecued ribs, tacos, or as a vibrant side to any picnic spread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Fritos Corn Salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the corn, bell pepper, cheese, mayonnaise, and black pepper mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. However, always add the crushed Chili Cheese Fritos just before serving to keep them from getting soggy.
What kind of corn should I use?
Canned whole kernel corn is recommended for convenience. Make sure to drain it very well. Frozen corn, thawed and drained, can also be used, but canned often yields a slightly sweeter, softer texture that blends beautifully in this salad.
Can I use a different type of Fritos?
While Chili Cheese Fritos are highly recommended for their specific flavor profile that complements the salad perfectly, you could experiment with original Fritos for a milder taste or even a spicy variety if you like extra heat. The key is the Fritos' iconic crunch.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 380, Protein: 10g, Fat: 28g, Carbs: 25g, Fiber: 3g. (Estimated values per serving, may vary by brands and specific quantities)
Allergy Information
Contains dairy (cheese) and soy/egg (mayonnaise). Chili Cheese Fritos contain milk ingredients. For a dairy-free option, use dairy-free cheese and mayonnaise substitutes. Always check product labels for specific allergen information.
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