Summer Cornbread Salad (Printable Version)
Colorful layers of cornbread, fresh vegetables, and cheese with a creamy dressing create this perfect summer potluck dish.
# What You'll Need:
→ Cornbread Base
01 - 4 cups crumbled cornbread (homemade or store-bought, preferably a day old)
→ Salad Layers
02 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
03 - 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
04 - 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed from frozen)
05 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
06 - ½ red onion, finely diced
07 - 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
08 - 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
09 - ¼ cup chopped green onions or chives
10 - ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
→ Dressing
11 - ¾ cup sour cream
12 - ¾ cup mayonnaise
13 - 1 tbsp lime juice
14 - 1 tsp garlic powder
15 - Salt and pepper to taste
# Steps to Follow:
01 - In a bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
02 - In a large trifle dish or clear glass bowl, layer half the crumbled cornbread, followed by half of each of the following: black beans, corn, tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, bacon (if using), cheddar cheese, and dressing. Repeat layers.
03 - Finish with green onions and chopped cilantro.
04 - For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
# Additional Tips::
01 -
- Ready in just 25 minutes with minimal prep work
- Perfect make-ahead dish that actually improves with time in the refrigerator
- Endlessly customizable with whatever fresh summer produce you have on hand
- Feeds a crowd beautifully with impressive visual appeal
02 -
- Makes excellent leftovers and actually tastes better the next day
- Can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance making it perfect for busy hosts
- Provides a complete meal with protein carbohydrates and vegetables in one dish
- Travels well to outdoor gatherings just keep chilled until serving time
03 -
- Toast your cornbread crumbles in the oven for 10 minutes before assembling for extra texture that stands up to the dressing longer
- Layer ingredients in a clear glass bowl or trifle dish to showcase the beautiful colors and layers creating visual appeal before the first bite
- Prepare extra dressing on the side for those who prefer a creamier salad allowing guests to customize their portion