Cucumber, Blueberry and Corn Salad

Memorial Day Weekend. A time to give thanks for those who have defended our country and our freedom as well as the start summer which brings with it a bounty of fresh produce, much of which can be grown right in your own back yard. I love to experiment with lots of fruit and veggie combos, especially at this time of year when there is so much to choose from.

I saw this simple recipe in Better Homes and Garden magazine while sitting by poolside and I knew that before the weekend was out I had to try it! I modified it a bit; adding a little more jalapeno and lime juice and changed up the dressing using agave instead of honey.

This was so simple and easy and an unexpected but very pleasant combination. I think this is destined to be one of my signature salads. I also think it would go nicely on a bed of greens. Next time I may try adding some mandarin orange or tangerine slices as well. Enjoy!

Cucumber, Blueberry and Corn Salad

5 ears fresh sweet corn, husked 1 pint fresh blueberries

3/4 English cucumber, sliced

1/3 of a red onion finely chopped

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1 large jalapeno (or 2 small) peppers, seeded and finely chopped**

Juice of one fresh lime

2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

1/2 tsp ground cumin

1/2 to 1 tbsp organic agave syrup (to taste)

1 tsp sea salt for dressing and some for water to boil the corn

In a large pot bring salted water to boiling. Add corn and cook covered about 5 minutes, or until tender. Allow to cool to the touch and then cut corn from the cobs.

In a serving bowl combine corn, blueberries, cucumber, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeno.

In a small screw top jar combine lime juice, oil, agave, cumin, and 1/2 tsp. salt. Cover; shake well to combine. Add to salad; toss. Cover and refrigerate overnight (up to 24 hours). Makes 5 to 6 servings.

**Be careful when working with hot peppers, they contain oils that can burn skin and eyes. I am living proof of this because of course I happened to touch my eye before I washed my hands when finished making this. OUCH. You may want to wear plastic gloves If using your bare hands like me, and wash them immediately after working with the peppers with soap and water.