Sweet Corn Chaat Recipe – Za’atar & Smoked Paprika Salad

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Sweet Corn Chaat Recipe – Za’atar & Smoked Paprika Salad

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a quick, flavorful snack or side dish. And let me tell you, this Sweet Corn Chaat is it. It’s bright, zesty, and packed with so much flavor – it’s become a regular in my kitchen, especially during warmer months. I first made this when I was craving something light and refreshing, and it’s been a hit ever since!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average sweet corn salad. We’re taking things up a notch with the incredible combination of za’atar spice, smoky paprika, and a generous squeeze of lime. It’s a vibrant explosion of textures and tastes that’s ready in just 15 minutes. Plus, it’s super versatile – perfect as a light lunch, a side for dinner, or even a party snack!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious chaat:

• 1 cup Sweet Corn Kernels (approx. 150g)
• 1 cup Bell Pepper, chopped (approx. 145g – use any color you like!)
• 1 cup Tomatoes, chopped (approx. 150g)
• 1 cup Onion, chopped (approx. 120g)
• 4-5 Olives, sliced
• 4-5 Jalapeno Peppers, sliced (adjust to your spice preference!)
• 1 tbsp Fresh Mint Leaves, chopped (approx. 7g)
• 1 tbsp Fresh Cilantro, chopped (approx. 7g)
• 1 tsp Za’atar Spice Powder (approx. 5g)
• Juice of 2 Limes or 1 Lemon (approx. 60ml)
• ½ – 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Powder (approx. 2.5-5g – start with less, you can always add more!)
• Himalayan Pink Salt to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips from my kitchen to yours:

Za’atar Spice: A Deep Dive into This Middle Eastern Blend

Za’atar is a magical spice blend – it’s typically a mix of dried thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds. It adds a wonderfully earthy and tangy flavor. You can find it at most well-stocked grocery stores or online. If you can’t find it, see the FAQ section for substitution ideas!

Sweet Corn: Fresh vs. Frozen & Regional Varieties

Fresh sweet corn is amazing when in season, of course! But frozen corn works beautifully too – no need to thaw it first. In India, you’ll find different varieties of sweet corn depending on the region, but any sweet corn will work well here.

Smoked Paprika: Adding Depth of Flavor

Don’t skip the smoked paprika! It adds a lovely smoky depth that really elevates the chaat. There are different levels of smokiness available, so choose one you enjoy.

Lime vs. Lemon Juice: Which to Choose?

I personally prefer lime juice for this recipe – it has a brighter, more floral flavor. But lemon juice works perfectly well if that’s what you have on hand.

Himalayan Pink Salt: Benefits and Flavor Profile

I love using Himalayan pink salt for its subtle mineral flavor. But regular table salt works just fine too!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped sweet corn, bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, olives, and jalapenos. Don’t be shy with the veggies – the more color, the better!
2. Now, let’s make the dressing. In a separate bowl, whisk together the fresh mint, cilantro, za’atar spice, lime (or lemon) juice, smoked paprika, and a pinch of Himalayan pink salt. Give it a good whisk until everything is nicely combined.
3. Pour that gorgeous dressing over the vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together until the veggies are evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix – you want to keep everything nice and crisp.
4. Serve immediately for the best texture. Or, if you’re meal prepping, you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. If you do, I recommend adding the dressing just before serving to keep it from getting soggy.

Expert Tips

• For a little extra crunch, add some toasted chickpeas or roasted peanuts.
• Don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of jalapeno to suit your spice level.
• A squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving brightens up the flavors.

Variations

• My Family’s Favorite: My kids love it when I add a little bit of crumbled feta cheese!
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing for an extra fiery kick.
• Fruit Twist: A handful of pomegranate seeds adds a lovely sweetness and burst of color.

Vegan Adaptation

This recipe is naturally vegan! Just double-check that your za’atar spice blend doesn’t contain any hidden dairy ingredients (some blends might).

Gluten-Free Confirmation

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free!

Spice Level Adjustment (Mild to Spicy)

Easily adjust the spice level by controlling the amount of jalapeno peppers you add. Remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor, or leave them in for a fiery kick.

Festival Adaptation: Navratri/Janmashtami Friendly?

This chaat is perfect for festivals like Navratri and Janmashtami as it doesn’t include any ingredients restricted during fasting (provided you are following a fruit and vegetable-based fast).

Serving Suggestions

This Sweet Corn Chaat is fantastic on its own as a light snack. It also pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, or as a side dish with your favorite Indian meal.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, the texture will soften over time. It’s best enjoyed fresh!

FAQs

What is Chaat and where does it originate from?

Chaat is a broad term for savory snacks that originate from the Indian subcontinent. It’s known for its tangy, spicy, and flavorful profile. There are countless variations of chaat, each region having its own unique specialties.

Can I make this Sweet Corn Chaat ahead of time?

You can definitely prep the veggies ahead of time! But I recommend adding the dressing just before serving to prevent it from getting soggy.

What can I substitute for Za’atar spice?

If you can’t find za’atar, you can make a simple substitute by combining equal parts dried thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds.

How do I adjust the sweetness in this chaat?

If you prefer a sweeter chaat, you can add a tiny drizzle of maple syrup or honey to the dressing.

Is this recipe suitable for those with nut allergies? (Considering potential cross-contamination with smoked paprika processing)

While the recipe itself doesn’t contain nuts, smoked paprika is sometimes processed in facilities that also handle nuts. If you have a severe nut allergy, it’s best to check the packaging of your smoked paprika to ensure it’s processed in a nut-free facility.