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: 1 pound of cooked crawfish tails, peeled; 2 cups of fresh corn kernels (or frozen, thawed); 1/2 red onion, finely diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup of mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons of lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Simple Recipes

I absolutely love making Crawfish and Corn Salad, especially during the summer months when the corn is sweet and juicy. This dish is both refreshing and satisfying, making it the perfect addition to any summer gathering. The combination of tender crawfish tails and crisp corn kernels, all tossed in a zesty dressing, creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. I find that letting the salad chill for a bit allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, bringing out the best in each bite. Trust me, it's a crowd-pleaser!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-04T18:29:28.472Z

When I first discovered Crawfish and Corn Salad at a local seafood festival, it seemed like a revelation. It was love at first taste! The way the sweetness of the corn elevates the ocean brininess of the crawfish is nothing short of magical. After trying multiple recipes, I realized that the key lies in a simple yet effective dressing of lemon juice and mayonnaise that complements the dish perfectly.

The beauty of this salad is its versatility. It can be served as a side dish, or you can add avocado for extra creaminess to make it a complete meal. I recommend letting it chill for at least 30 minutes before serving; this helps all the flavors come together beautifully!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The harmonious blend of sweet corn and savory crawfish creates an irresistible salad.
It's a refreshing dish that’s ideal for hot summer days.
Simple to prepare, making it perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions.

Selecting Quality Ingredients

When making Crawfish and Corn Salad, the quality of your ingredients greatly influences the final flavor. Fresh corn is ideal, especially during summer when it's in season. Look for ears with bright green husks and moist silk, and remember to use raw kernels cut straight from the cob for the best sweetness. If using frozen corn, ensure it’s thawed completely to prevent excess moisture in your salad.

For the crawfish tails, choose pre-cooked and peeled ones for convenience. Look for products that are packed in a light brine; this ensures the tails remain juicy and flavorful. If you're in an area where fresh crawfish is available, you can boil your own, but make sure to season the water to infuse a deep flavor.

Tips for a Flavorful Dressing

The dressing in this salad is crucial for tying the ingredients together. Using mayonnaise as a base provides a creamy texture that complements the sweet corn and savory crawfish. I recommend opting for a higher quality mayonnaise or even homemade if you have time, as it enhances the overall taste. The lemon juice adds brightness; don’t be shy—adjust the amount to your personal taste for a tangier profile.

After mixing the dressing, let it sit for a few minutes before adding it to the salad. This allows the flavors to marry together, resulting in a more robust dressing. If you prefer a lower-calorie version, Greek yogurt makes a great substitute for mayonnaise and adds a different flavor dimension.

Serving and Storing Tips

Once your Crawfish and Corn Salad is ready, serve it chilled to fully enjoy its refreshing qualities. Consider pairing it with grilled proteins like shrimp or chicken for a complete meal. You can also serve it as a topping for tacos or a filling in wraps for a fun twist. The salad can be garnished with sliced avocados or crumbled feta cheese for added richness.

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh, as the ingredients can become soggy over time. If you decide to make it ahead, keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve to maintain the texture and crispness of the vegetables.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Crawfish and Corn Salad:

Ingredients

1 pound of cooked crawfish tails, peeled
2 cups of fresh corn kernels (or frozen, thawed)
1/2 red onion, finely diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup of mayonnaise
2 tablespoons of lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the crawfish tails, corn, red onion, and bell pepper.

Make the Dressing

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

Combine and Chill

Pour the dressing over the crawfish and corn mixture, tossing gently to combine. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your refreshing salad!

Enjoy your Crawfish and Corn Salad as a delightful side or main dish!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, try mixing in some diced cucumber or celery. If you can't find crawfish, shrimp makes a great substitute in this salad.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to customize your Crawfish and Corn Salad by adding your favorite vegetables. Diced cucumbers or cherry tomatoes can add an additional layer of freshness, while jalapeños provide a spicy kick. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the crawfish with black beans or grilled tofu, which will provide a delightful texture and flavor balance.

For those who enjoy additional herbs, consider folding in fresh cilantro or dill. These herbs will not only enhance the flavor but will also provide a vibrant color contrast. Be mindful of the quantities, though; start with a small amount and gradually adjust according to your preference.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue is the salad becoming too watery, especially if you’ve used frozen corn. To avoid this, make sure to thoroughly drain and pat dry the corn before adding it to the salad. If your mixture does become watery, a handful of crushed tortilla chips can help absorb excess moisture, while adding crunch at the same time.

Another potential problem is the salad lacking flavor. This can sometimes happen if the dressing is not balanced. If you find it too bland, try adding more lemon juice or a drizzle of hot sauce for an added kick. Always taste and adjust before serving; everyone's palate is different, and a little tweak can make all the difference.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen crawfish tails?

Yes, just ensure they are thawed and well-drained before adding to the salad.

→ How long can I store the salad?

You can keep the salad in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; however, it's best enjoyed fresh.

→ What can I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or can be served on a bed of greens.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free, making it suitable for gluten-intolerant individuals.