Crawfish and Corn Salad

Name: Crawfish and Corn Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked crawfish tails, peeled and deveined; 1 cup fresh corn kernels (or canned, drained); 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Home-Cooked Recipes

I absolutely love preparing Crawfish and Corn Salad, especially during the summer months when fresh ingredients are abundant. The combination of tender crawfish and sweet corn creates a refreshing dish that’s perfect for any gathering. I enjoy serving this salad chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, it's incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for picnics and barbecues. I often find myself reaching for this delightful salad whenever I want something light yet satisfying.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-04T16:02:28.151Z

When I first discovered the beauty of Crawfish and Corn Salad, I couldn't believe how quickly it became a staple in my kitchen. The vibrant colors and flavors remind me of sunny days spent outdoors, and I'm always amazed at how just a few simple ingredients can come together to create something so delicious. I’ve experimented with different seasonings, but I’ve found that a hint of lemon juice really elevates the dish.

One of my favorite things about this salad is its versatility. You can serve it as a side dish or a light main course, and it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats. I also love that it can be prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to develop even more over time. Whenever I serve it at gatherings, everyone's plates are always empty!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The combination of sweet corn and savory crawfish creates a harmonious flavor profile.
It’s a light and refreshing dish perfect for hot summer days.
Quick to prepare and packs a punch of protein!

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this Crawfish and Corn Salad plays a vital role in balancing flavors and textures. The crawfish tails are naturally sweet and tender, providing a robust base. Opting for fresh corn, preferably cut from the cob, enhances the sweetness and adds a delightful crunch. Alternatively, canned corn works well too—just make sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid a watery salad.

The addition of diced red bell pepper not only contributes vibrant color but also a mild, sweet flavor that complements the dish beautifully. The green onions provide a sharp contrast that brightens the overall taste. When preparing the vegetables, aim for uniform sizing to ensure even distribution in each scoop.

Technique Tips

When combining the dressing with the salad, be sure to use a gentle folding technique rather than vigorous stirring. This ensures that you maintain the integrity of the crawfish and corn without mashing them. Once the dressing is added, aim to coat each piece without overdoing it. The goal is to have a glossy finish on the salad; a good indicator is when you see a light sheen covering the ingredients.

If you're short on time, you can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve its freshness. However, I recommend adding the fresh parsley as a garnish just before serving to maintain its flavor and vibrant color.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Crawfish and Corn Salad:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked crawfish tails, peeled and deveined
1 cup fresh corn kernels (or canned, drained)
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly for a fantastic flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Crawfish and Corn Salad:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked crawfish tails with the fresh corn, diced red bell pepper, and chopped green onions.

Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the crawfish mixture and stir gently until everything is well-coated.

Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your refreshing salad!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in diced avocado or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

This Crawfish and Corn Salad is versatile and can be served in various ways. For a light lunch or main course, pair it with a side of crusty bread or a green salad. You can also serve it as a refreshing side dish beside grilled meats or seafood at a picnic or barbecue.

Consider presenting the salad in individual cups for gatherings; it adds a nice touch and makes serving easy. A sprinkle of crumbled feta or a dash of hot sauce can be delightful additions that cater to different taste preferences.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. While the salad is best enjoyed within 24 hours, it can last for up to two days. Just be aware that the texture may soften slightly as the flavors meld over time.

If you’re planning to make this ahead for an event, prepare the salad components separately. You can mix the crawfish, corn, and vegetables, but store the dressing on the side, adding it just before serving to keep the salad crisp.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen crawfish for this salad?

Yes, you can use frozen crawfish as long as they are cooked and thawed properly.

→ How long can I store the salad?

The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ What can I serve this salad with?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as a standalone dish at summer barbecues.

→ Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?

You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy flavor.