Brenda Gantt Cornbread Salad Recipe (2024)

If you’re a fan of Southern cuisine, you’ve probably heard of the famous Brenda Gantt Cornbread Salad Recipe. This dish is a beloved staple in many Southern households, and for good reason. It’s hearty, filling, and bursting with flavor.

In this post, we’ll be sharing the recipe for Brenda Gantt’s Famous Cornbread Salad, along with a few tips and tricks to help you make it perfectly every time. We’ll start by showing you how to make the cornbread base using White Lily cornmeal mix, eggs, and buttermilk. Then, we’ll walk you through the process of assembling the salad and all the delicious toppings that go with it.

But before we dive into the recipe itself, let’s talk a bit more about why Brenda Gantt’s Cornbread Salad is so special. As she puts it herself, “most of the time I like my cornbread crunchy, but this time I don’t want it country.” This quote perfectly captures the essence of the recipe – it’s all about finding the perfect balance between texture and flavor. Here is another popular recipe by Brenda Gant, called Brenda Gantt Chicken and Dumplings Recipe.

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So whether you’re looking for a new dish to bring to your next potluck or simply want to spice up your weekday dinner routine, Brenda Gantt’s cornbread salad is the perfect choice. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

Table of Contents

Ingredients Required for Brenda Gantt Cornbread Salad Recipe

For Cornbread:

1/2 cup White Lily Self-Rising Buttermilk White Cornmeal Mix
2 eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 scoop sugar

For Salad:

1 can sweet corn, drained
1 can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 bell pepper, diced
3-4 green onions, thinly sliced
2 cups grated cheese
3-4 tomatoes, diced
1 pack ranch dressing mix
1.5 cups mayonnaise
1 cup buttermilk
12 ounces cooked bacon, crumbled

Let’s Start Making Brenda Gantt Southern Cornbread Salad

Step 01: Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup cornmeal, 2 eggs, 1 cup buttermilk, and 1/2 scoop sugar. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 02: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and fully cooked. Let it cool completely.

Step 03: In another bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing mix, mayonnaise, and buttermilk until smooth and creamy.

Step 04: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained sweet corn and pinto beans.

Step 05: Take a separate mixing bowl and combine the grated cheese, diced bell pepper, diced tomatoes, and sliced green onions. Crumble the cooled cornbread into small pieces and set aside.

Special Tips And Tricks For This Dish

Here are some special tips and tricks to help you make the perfect Cornbread Salad Recipe

Use homemade cornbread: The recipe calls for crumbled cornbread, and using homemade cornbread will add an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
Let the cornbread cool: Make sure to let the cornbread cool completely before crumbing it, otherwise, it may become too mushy.
Use fresh vegetables: The recipe calls for fresh vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers. Be sure to use fresh vegetables for the best taste and texture.
Layer the ingredients: The salad is meant to be layered, so take your time and make sure each layer is evenly distributed.
Use a clear bowl: Using a clear bowl will allow the layers of the salad to be seen and appreciated.

Common problems that may arise when making this recipe include:

Mushy cornbread: If the cornbread becomes too mushy, try reducing the amount of dressing used or allowing the cornbread to cool completely before crumbling.
Watery vegetables: If the vegetables release too much liquid, try draining them before adding them to the salad.
Overdressed salad: If the salad becomes too creamy or overdressed, try adding more vegetables to balance it out.
Dry salad: If the salad seems too dry, try adding more dressing or a splash of vinegar to give it more flavor.
Bland flavor: If the salad lacks flavor, try adding more salt, pepper, or other seasonings to taste.
Stale cornbread: If the cornbread is stale or dry, try toasting it in the oven for a few minutes before crumbling it for the salad.

Serving Ideas for Brenda Gantt Cornbread Salad

Brenda Gantt Cornbread Salad is a unique and flavorful dish that can be served as a side dish or as a main course. It is a complete meal on its own and can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner. However, if you are looking to serve it as a side dish, here are some ideas:

Grilled Meats: Grilled meats like chicken, steak, or pork chops make a great accompaniment to the salad. The smoky flavors of the grilled meats complement the sweetness of the cornbread and the creaminess of the dressing.
BBQ: A classic barbecue meal is the perfect pairing for Cornbread Salad. Serve it with ribs, pulled pork, or brisket, and your guests will be delighted.
Chili: A bowl of warm chili is a great match for the salad. The heartiness of the chili pairs well with the crunch of the vegetables and the creaminess of the dressing.
Soup: A bowl of soup can be a great starter for the meal. A creamy soup like tomato or corn soup complements the salad perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or carrots are a great addition to the salad. The nutty flavors of the roasted vegetables add another layer of flavor to the dish.
Fried Chicken: Fried chicken is a classic Southern dish that goes well with Cornbread Salad. The crunch of the chicken complements the texture of the salad.
Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers make a great vegetarian option. The charred flavors of the vegetables complement the sweetness of the cornbread and the creaminess of the dressing.
Mac and Cheese: A side of mac and cheese is a classic Southern side dish that pairs well with Cornbread Salad. The creaminess of the mac and cheese complements the dressing of the salad.
Baked Beans: Baked beans are a classic Southern side dish that pairs well with the salad. The sweetness of the beans complements the sweetness of the cornbread.

Frequently Asked Questions about Brenda Gantt Cornbread Salad Recipe

Can I use store-bought cornbread?

Yes, you can use store-bought cornbread if you don’t have time to make homemade cornbread. However, be sure to choose a high-quality cornbread with a similar texture and flavor to homemade cornbread.

Is it okay to use a different type of cheese Brenda Gantt Cornbread Salad Recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of cheese you like. However, choose a cheese that will complement the flavors of the salad and has a similar texture to the grated cheese.

Can I use a different type of dressing?

Yes, you can use any type of dressing you like. However, creamy dressings like ranch or blue cheese complement the flavors of the salad well.

Final Word

Brenda Gantt Cornbread Salad recipe is a fantastic addition to any meal. With its unique blend of flavors and textures, this Southern classic is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a side dish to complement your main course or a delicious standalone salad, this recipe has got you covered.

So, why not try making this delightful dish at your next gathering and savor the goodness of cornbread and fresh veggies in every bite? We guarantee you won’t be disappointed! We always appreciate you taking the time to read this article, and we look forward to welcoming you back soon for more culinary explorations. Stay Connected with celebrateandhavefun. Happy Cooking!