Warm Corn, Tomato & Cilantro Salad

My side dish with corn has a cool Latin flavor with the addition of cilantro. Just chop a large tomato, along with cilantro, while you zap a package of frozen corn in the microwave for a few minutes -- then bring this dish together with a squirt of lime or lemon juice. It is a light and flavorful accompaniment to any favorite entree; or set out a bag of tortilla chips and use my Warm Corn, Tomato & Cilantro Salad as part of your next party platter.

I'm a fan of frozen corn. It tastes less processed than canned, the flavor is more subtle, and I like the texture -- I think the liquid in canned is a little off-putting, while frozen has none to pour down the drain.

My local Latin market always has tomatoes for under a dollar per pound, and a bunch of cilantro is frequently on sale for a quarter. I usually get my frozen corn at this 99c only Store. Frozen bags of corn cost more than a can, but you get about 3 cans worth, so it all evens out.

My latest dish is great warm, but just as brisk and tasty straight from the refrigerator the next day.

Ingredients
Bag of frozen corn - about one pound (16 ounces), or drain 2 cans of corn.
1 small bunch of cilantro - chopped
1 large tomato - or a couple of small ones.
1 tablespoon of lemon or lime juice - fresh or from a squeeze bottle.
1 tablespoon of water for microwaving corn.

Directions
 Empty package of frozen corn into a large ceramic bowl, sprinkle in a tablespoon of water,  and microwave (I cover with wax paper) until corn is hot -- usually about 3 - 5 minutes.

Stir a couple of times during micowaving to get an even distribution of heat. Frozen corn is usually already cooked, so you are just heating it up -- but try a few kernels when done to make sure (and microwave longer if necessary).

Add chopped tomato and cilantro to the bowl of warm corn. Squirt in a tbsp. of lemon or lime juice. Ready to serve with you favorite entree; or with tortillla chips at a party, picnic or barbecue.