How To Upgrade Canned Corn With A Common Fridge Staple

Canned corn is that faithful, often overlooked pantry item that suffers from its own success; it's dependable, inexpensive, and always there — all qualities that cause us to take it for granted. And don't you dare throw its more attractive cousin into the mix (the beloved fresh corn on the cob), or all of a sudden, canned corn really becomes the bald-headed throwaway.

That doesn't mean it has to stay boring, though. If you set out to cook the canned vegetable properly, all you need is a bit of creativity to turn that ordinary canned corn into something that tastes far more exciting than what came out of the tin initially. Don't get us wrong, it might sound unconventional, but don't knock it until you try it. The way to liven it up is to put some salad dressing in it ... Yes, salad dressing.

It may sound horrific at worst or like a crude joke at best, but a splash of this ingredient can take canned corn to the next level almost instantly. The tangy, seasoned flavors do the heavy lifting, infusing the corn with zing and complexity. Italian dressing, for example, adds zest and herbs that bring out the natural sweetness of the kernels, while creamy dressings like ranch or caesar create a richer side dish, making the corn itself creamy (depending on how heavy your hand is). Best of all, it takes no time at all to open the can, drain it, and mix in the dressing. Once you get over the shock factor of it all, you're well on your way to an unsuspectingly tasty bite. Canned corn salad is a thing, and we're here for it. 

Once you've mixed canned corn with salad dressing, the possibilities open up. If you start with a vinaigrette-style dressing, try adding diced bell peppers, red onion, or even a sprinkle of feta for a side dish that feels light and ready for the summer. Alternatively, creamy dressings pair perfectly with smoky spices like paprika or chili powder, which creates a warm and savory balance that's perfect for taco nights.

You can also go for a fresher flavor by mixing in chopped herbs such as cilantro or parsley, which help brighten the flavor of canned corn. A squeeze of lime juice is another easy add-in that plays especially well with ranch or chipotle-style dressings. For something a little heartier, toss the dressed corn with black beans, avocado, and cherry tomatoes; at that point it's practically a meal on its own and makes a great topping for nachos or baked potatoes.

The beauty of this upgrade is its flexibility. You don't need to stick to a single flavor profile, and you don't need to spend extra time in the kitchen. That little bottle of salad dressing in the fridge might just be the secret to making canned corn a dish you actually look forward to serving.