3 MN ‘Dishes’ Make Favorites List In US, I’ve Never Heard Of #3 Before

A recent survey of more than 3,000 foodies to identify the country’s most beloved summer dishes by state was conducted by a website, and the top-10 was a picnic for the senses, including things like Blueberry pie with vanilla ice cream (1) (Maine), grilled strip steak with garlic scapes (3) (New York), and sweet corn on the cob (6) (Iowa). But it was one of the three Minnesota selections to make the list that had me scratching my head. Namely because I've never heard of it. I'm not saying it doesn't exist, but come on...

You've Heard Of Juicy Lucy Burgers & Walleye Sandwiches

The first two items on the Mixbook.com survey for Minnesota's summer dish favorites were the always delicious, but somewhat controversial, Juicy Lucy's. (controversy over who did it first, Matt's Bar or the 5-8 Club) The cheese-filled burger came in at #42 on the national list, but was Minnesota's favorite. No controversy at all on this pick. That leads us to...

Number 107 on the list of America's most beloved summer dishes, the 'MN' walleye sandwich. Mixbook.com wrote, "Walleye, the state fish of Minnesota, is a summer catch prized for its flaky texture and clean taste. Lightly breaded and pan-fried, then served on a soft bun with lettuce, lemon, and tartar sauce, it’s a popular meal in lake towns and cabin resorts throughout the warmer months." 

I don't let the thermometer tell me when I can have a walleye sandwich, but other than the calendar caveat, I think we can again agree that this is a solidly Minnesota meal. But it was the third Minnesota 'dish' that left me confused, as I've never heard of this...what in the name of grape salad is...

Sweet Corn & Wild Rice Salad

That's right, Sweet Corn & Wild Rice Salad. Ever heard of it before? Honestly, it sounds very Minnesotan, but let's see what the picture book company had to say about #3 for the North Star State's favorite summer dishes.

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"Minnesota’s summer corn harvest meets native wild rice in this refreshing yet filling salad. Tossed with herbs and vinaigrette, it’s often served chilled at summer potlucks, adding a local and textural flair to the table."

Never Heard Of It, But That Doesn't Mean It Doesn't Exist

Just because I've never heard of it doesn't mean it doesn't exist. Maybe we call it something else, like we do with pop. But I can name three other much more Minnesotan summer dishes that are more common...SPAM burgers, a taco dog, or the always popular pork chop on a stick.