Corn and Tomato Salad Recipe | Vibrant Summer Salad

Why You'll Love This Spectacular Salad

• Quick & Easy. Ready in just 15 minutes, this salad is perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
• Fresh & Flavorful. The combination of sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and tangy dressing makes every bite refreshing and satisfying.
• Versatile. Great as a side dish, a light lunch, or even a topping for grilled meats.
• Healthy & Nutritious. Packed with vitamins and antioxidants from the fresh veggies.

Whether you're hosting a BBQ, a family gathering, or simply want a light, healthy meal, this salad is a must-try.

Corn and tomato salad has a refreshing and vibrant flavor profile. The sweetness of the corn pairs beautifully with the juiciness and slight tang of the cherry tomatoes.

The red onion adds a subtle bite and a mild sharpness, while the cilantro introduces a fresh, herbal note. The optional feta cheese brings a creamy, salty, and tangy element that enhances the overall taste.

The dressing—a mix of olive oil, lime juice, honey, salt, and black pepper—adds a zesty, slightly sweet, and savory touch that ties all the flavors together, creating a well-balanced and satisfying dish.

This salad is a nutritious option, providing a good balance of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. It's also relatively low in calories and can be adjusted to suit specific dietary needs, such as reducing the amount of added honey or omitting the feta cheese.

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Salad

• Corn- Corn provides the base of the salad with a sweet, juicy crunch. It's the primary vegetable in the dish, adding both flavor and texture.
• Tomatoes- Tomatoes add a juicy, slightly tangy sweetness to the salad. Their acidity balances the sweetness of the corn.
• Red Onion- Red onion adds a sharp, slightly spicy flavor and a crunchy texture, contrasting the softer textures of the corn and tomatoes.
• Cilantro- Cilantro adds a fresh, herbal note that complements the other ingredients, adding brightness and a distinctive flavor.
• Feta Cheese- Feta cheese adds a salty, tangy, and creamy element to the salad, enhancing the flavor complexity.
• For the Dressing:
• Olive Oil- Olive oil forms the base of the dressing, adding richness and helping to meld the flavors of the salad together.
• Lime Juice- Lime juice adds a tangy, citrusy brightness to the dressing, balancing the richness of the olive oil and the sweetness of the honey.
• Honey- Honey adds a touch of sweetness to the dressing, balancing the acidity of the lime juice.
• Salt- Salt enhances the natural flavors of all the ingredients, ensuring the salad is well-seasoned.
• Black Pepper- Black pepper adds a subtle spiciness and depth to the dressing, complementing the other flavors in the salad.

1. Grill the Corn. Remove the corn from the husks. Lightly brush it with olive oil. Grill over low-medium heat for 10-15 minutes, turning frequently. It should be tender to bite and slightly charred.
2. Prepare the Ingredients. Remove the corn kernels from the cob. Halve the cherry tomatoes and finely chop the red onion and cilantro.
3. Make the Dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, salt, and black pepper.
4. Combine the Salad. In a large bowl, combine the corn, tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to eat.

Tips And Tricks

Making a delicious corn and tomato salad is simple, but a few tips and tricks can elevate the flavors and texture. Here are some helpful suggestions:

• Use Fresh Ingredients. Fresh corn on the cob is best for this salad. If possible, grill or boil the corn, then cut the kernels off the cob for a smoky, sweet flavor. Opt for ripe, juicy cherry or grape tomatoes. Heirloom varieties can add an extra burst of flavor and color.
• Prep Ingredients Ahead of Time. If you're planning a gathering, prep the ingredients in advance. Cut the tomatoes, chop the onions, and prepare the dressing separately. Combine just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
• Customize the Dressing. Adjust the amount of lime juice and honey in the dressing to suit your taste. For a tangier flavor, add more lime juice; for sweetness, increase the honey.

Variations

Here are some delicious variations to try for your corn and tomato salad:

• Avocado- Dice one or two ripe avocados and gently mix them in. The creamy texture of avocado pairs beautifully with the crunch of corn and the juiciness of tomatoes.
• Mexican Street Corn- Mix in crumbled cotija cheese, chopped jalapeños, and a sprinkle of chili powder. Add a bit of mayo or Mexican crema for a creamy texture. Swap the olive oil for a combination of mayo and lime juice.
• Mediterranean- Include Kalamata olives, diced cucumber, and crumbled feta cheese. Add some fresh oregano or basil. Use a combination of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a touch of garlic.

Corn and tomato salad is a versatile and refreshing dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses and sides. Here are some great options to serve alongside it:

• Grilled Chicken- The salad's fresh flavors complement the smoky, savory taste of grilled chicken.
• Tacos- Use the salad as a topping or side dish for fish, chicken, or beef tacos.
• Burgers- Serve the salad as a side with beef, turkey, or veggie burgers for a complete meal.

How Long Does It Last

Corn and tomato salad typically lasts for 3 to 4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. Use an airtight container to keep the salad fresh and prevent it from absorbing other flavors from the fridge.

The salad's texture and flavor may slightly change over time, especially as the tomatoes release their juices and the dressing blends with the other ingredients. It's best enjoyed fresh for the most vibrant taste and texture.

Can You Freeze It?

It's not recommended to freeze corn and tomato salad, as freezing can significantly alter the texture and quality of the ingredients.

If you want to prepare parts of the salad ahead of time, you can freeze the corn separately (if using fresh corn) and add it to the salad fresh with the other ingredients when you're ready to serve. However, the tomatoes, onions, and dressing should be prepared fresh for the best results.

More Summer Salads

• Spinach Salad
• Shrimp Salad
• Greek Cucumber Salad
• Watermelon Feta Salad
• Pea Salad

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