Can I use fresh or frozen corn instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just make sure fresh corn is cooked and cooled, and if using frozen, thaw and drain well. The idea is max sweetness with minimal excess moisture.

How do I keep the Fritos from going soggy?

Keep the Fritos in a separate container and only mix them in right before serving. This way they stay wonderfully crisp, giving each bite the perfect crunch.

What can I use instead of Fritos?

If you want to switch things up, try other corn chips, tortilla strips, or even crunchy fried onions. Each brings its own character, but Fritos are a classic for a reason!

Can I make this salad ahead for a party?

Yes! Mix all the salad ingredients and dressing the night before. Keep the chips out until ready to serve. It’s the best way to save time and keep everything fresh.

Frito Corn Salad Recipe - LittleSpoonBites

Description

This Frito Corn Salad is a flavorful, crunchy side dish packed with sweet corn, black beans, Rotel tomatoes, diced bell pepper, and cheddar cheese, all tossed in a creamy, spiced dressing. Just before serving, it’s mixed with Fritos corn chips for the ultimate crunchy texture. This quick and easy salad is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or as a fun appetizer or snack.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Vegetables & Canned Goods

2 (15-ounce) cans sweet corn, drained
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained
1 (10-ounce) can Rotel, drained
1 bell pepper, diced (red, green, or yellow)

Cheese

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Chips

1 (9.25-ounce) bag Fritos corn chips

Dressing

2/3 cup sour cream
1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

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Instructions

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground cumin. Whisk everything together until the dressing is smooth and fully incorporated.
Prepare the Salad Base: In a large bowl, add the drained corn, black beans, Rotel, diced bell pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese. Toss together to mix evenly.
Add the Dressing: Pour the homemade dressing over the salad mixture. Top the salad base with all the dressing.
Mix the Salad: Gently stir the salad and dressing together, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
Add the Fritos: Just before serving, add the Fritos corn chips to the bowl. Fold them gently into the salad mixture, being careful not to break them, to keep the Fritos crunchy.

Notes

This salad is best enjoyed fresh as the Fritos will become soggy if left to sit for too long after mixing.
For make-ahead, store the salad and dressing separately or even premix both, but only add Fritos right before serving.
The salad (without chips) keeps in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Customize by using your favorite bell pepper color.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
Calories: 228 kcal
Sugar: 7 g
Sodium: 397 mg
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
Trans Fat: 0.001 g
Carbohydrates: 27 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 8 g
Cholesterol: 25 mg