Jalapeno Corn Bread Salad
A vibrant, flavorful salad combining spicy jalapeno corn bread, fresh vegetables, crispy bacon, and creamy dressing, perfect for casual gatherings or summer cookouts.
Ingredients
- 2 pkg. jalapeno corn bread mix, baked, cooled and crumbled ⓘ
- 1 bunch green onions, chopped ⓘ
- 1 bell pepper, chopped ⓘ
- 2 small tomatoes, chopped ⓘ
- 8 strips fried bacon, crumbled ⓘ
- 1 c. Cheddar cheese, shredded ⓘ
- 1 can whole kernel corn, drained ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. chili powder ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper ⓘ
- Tabasco sauce ⓘ
- 1 1/2 c. sour cream ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine the crumbled jalapeno corn bread, chopped green onions, bell pepper, chopped tomatoes, crumbled bacon, shredded Cheddar cheese (reserve some for topping), drained corn, chili powder, and black pepper in a large bowl.
- Mix sour cream, Miracle Whip, and Tabasco sauce together in a separate bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetable and bread mixture and stir until well combined.
- Chill the salad for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Sprinkle reserved cheese, tomatoes, and bacon on top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider using fresh jalapenos or adding diced green chiles to the mixture. If you want a vegetarian option, substitute the bacon with crispy chickpeas. You can also swap the Cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added flavor. Be sure to let the corn bread cool completely before crumbling to avoid a mushy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad as a side dish at barbecues or potlucks, where it pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as part of a buffet spread. Consider serving it alongside dishes like Lob-La-La Casserole or Hot Spud Salad for a well-rounded meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together and improve over time. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge for a refreshing snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jalapeno Corn Bread Salad contains roughly 171 calories, with 8g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 628mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead! Prepare it a day in advance to allow the flavors to develop. Just be sure to add the reserved toppings right before serving to keep them fresh and visually appealing.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute for sour cream. It provides a similar tanginess and creaminess while adding protein. You can also use a dairy-free sour cream alternative if you need a vegan option.
How can I make this salad gluten-free?
To make this salad gluten-free, use a gluten-free corn bread mix. Many brands offer delicious alternatives that will work well in this recipe. Just ensure all other ingredients, like the dressing, are also gluten-free.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).