Looking for a light and tasty dish to enjoy this summer? My Summer Corn Tomato Salad is the perfect choice! With fresh corn, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and crisp cucumber, it’s simple yet full of flavor. This salad also helps you use seasonal produce in a fun way. Ready to bring a burst of summer to your table? Let’s dive into this easy recipe that everyone will love!
Ingredients
Fresh Ingredients Required
– 3 ears of fresh corn
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes
– 1 medium cucumber
– 1/4 red onion
– 1/4 cup fresh basil
– 1/4 cup feta cheese
Pantry Essentials
– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Sea salt
– Freshly cracked black pepper
Notes on Ingredient Quality
Using fresh produce is key for flavor and nutrition. Fresh ingredients brighten the dish. I recommend visiting local farmers’ markets. Here, you can find fresh corn, tomatoes, and herbs. They are often sweeter and more vibrant than store-bought.
Organic ingredients usually offer better taste and less chemical exposure. However, conventional ingredients can still be tasty. Choose what fits your cooking style and budget. Just ensure everything is fresh. Quality matters in every bite.
For the full recipe, check out the Sunny Summer Corn & Tomato Salad.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Corn
To cook the corn perfectly, start by boiling a large pot of water. Add a generous amount of salt once the water boils. Carefully add the husked corn and cook it for about 5-7 minutes. The kernels should be tender and bright yellow. Once done, remove the corn and set it aside to cool slightly.
When handling the corn, let it cool until you can touch it safely. Hold the ear of corn upright in a bowl to catch any falling kernels. Use a sharp knife to slice down the sides of the cob. This will release the kernels into the bowl.
Preparing the Salad
Now, it’s time to mix the salad. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and freshly chopped basil to the bowl with corn. Gently mix these ingredients to ensure they are evenly distributed. This step is key to getting all the flavors in every bite.
Making the Dressing
For the dressing, take a small bowl and combine the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Add a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Use a whisk to blend the mixture until smooth. This simple whisking technique helps combine the flavors well. A smooth dressing coats the salad nicely and enhances each ingredient.
Combining Everything
Drizzle the dressing over the corn and vegetable mix in the large bowl. Use a large spoon to gently stir the ingredients together. Be careful not to break down the feta too much as you mix. The goal is to have all ingredients coated evenly with the dressing. Finally, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top. Give it one last gentle toss to incorporate the cheese without breaking it down too much.
For the full recipe, refer to the section above.
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Freshness
To make the best Summer Corn Tomato Salad, choose seasonal ingredients. Fresh corn adds sweetness, while ripe tomatoes bring bright flavor. Look for tomatoes that feel firm and smell sweet. Check that the corn ears have bright green husks and moist silk. You should use your ingredients soon after buying. Store corn in the fridge for up to three days. Keep tomatoes at room temperature for the best taste.
Presentation Tips
Serving is key for summer events. Use a large, colorful platter to show off your salad. For a fun touch, serve in individual bowls. Garnish with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of feta on top. This adds color and makes it look fresh. You can also pair the salad with grilled meats for a complete meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking corn is a common mistake. Cook it just long enough for the kernels to be tender. This keeps the corn sweet and crunchy. Another mistake is not seasoning properly. Taste your salad after mixing. Adjust the salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. A little seasoning makes a big difference!
Variations
Adding Protein
You can make your salad heartier by adding protein. Grilled chicken or shrimp works perfectly. Just season them lightly and grill until cooked through. Slice them and toss them into the salad. For a vegetarian option, use beans like black beans or chickpeas. They add great flavor and protein without meat.
Flavor Enhancements
You can elevate the taste of your salad with simple additions. Try adding diced avocado for creaminess. Bell peppers also add crunch and sweetness. Don’t forget to experiment with different dressings! A zesty lime vinaigrette or a creamy ranch can change everything.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free options, this salad is naturally gluten-free. Just check your dressing. For vegan substitutions, omit the feta cheese. You can replace it with avocado or a vegan cheese. These adjustments let everyone enjoy this dish without worry.
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques
After making your summer corn tomato salad, store it in the fridge to keep it fresh. Use an airtight container to prevent exposure to air. This helps keep the flavors bright and the veggies crisp. You can also layer a piece of plastic wrap over the salad before sealing the lid. This extra step helps lock in moisture.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, your salad will last about 3 days. After that, the veggies may start to lose their crunch. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is not a good idea. Freezing changes the texture of fresh veggies. Always enjoy it fresh for the best taste.
Reviving Leftovers
To refresh your salad after storage, add a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice. This adds life back to the flavors. You can also mix in some fresh herbs, like basil or parsley. If you want to switch it up, try adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for a new twist. Enjoy your summer corn tomato salad in a new way! For the full recipe, check out the Sunny Summer Corn & Tomato Salad.
FAQs
How do I make a Summer Corn Tomato Salad from scratch?
To make this salad, start with fresh corn. Boil three ears for about five to seven minutes. Once cooked, cool the corn. Cut the kernels off the cob into a bowl. Add two cups of halved cherry tomatoes, one diced cucumber, and some finely chopped red onion. Toss in a quarter cup of chopped basil. In a separate bowl, whisk together three tablespoons of olive oil and two tablespoons of balsamic vinegar. Pour this dressing over the salad and mix gently. Finally, sprinkle a quarter cup of crumbled feta cheese on top and give a light toss. You can find the full recipe [here](#).
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you want a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu. It has a similar texture. You can also use cashew cheese for a creamier taste. If you are not vegan, goat cheese works well too. It adds a nice tang. Nutritional yeast can also give a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Can I use canned corn instead of fresh?
You can use canned corn, but fresh corn is best for taste. Canned corn is already cooked, so it saves time. However, it may lack the crunch of fresh corn. If you use canned corn, rinse it well to remove extra salt. Fresh corn has a sweeter taste and better texture. For summer salads, I prefer fresh corn.
How to adjust the recipe for a larger crowd?
To serve more people, simply double or triple the ingredients. Use six or nine ears of corn. Adjust the other ingredients accordingly. Keep the same ratios for flavor. Prepare the dressing in larger amounts too. If you want to make it easier, mix everything in a big bowl for easy serving. This salad is perfect for parties!
This blog post guided you through making a delicious Summer Corn Tomato Salad. We covered fresh ingredients, cooking tips, and variations to suit your taste. Remember to use fresh produce for the best flavor. Don’t forget to experiment with proteins or different dressings to keep it exciting. Storing and reviving leftovers will help you enjoy this dish longer. A tasty salad can brighten up any meal, so go ahead and get creative!
. If you want a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu. It has a similar texture. You can also use cashew cheese for a creamier taste. If you are not vegan, goat cheese works well too. It adds a nice tang. Nutritional yeast can also give a cheesy flavor without the dairy. You can use canned corn, but fresh corn is best for taste. Canned corn is already cooked, so it saves time. However, it may lack the crunch of fresh corn. If you use canned corn, rinse it well to remove extra salt. Fresh corn has a sweeter taste and better texture. For summer salads, I prefer fresh corn. To serve more people, simply double or triple the ingredients. Use six or nine ears of corn. Adjust the other ingredients accordingly. Keep the same ratios for flavor. Prepare the dressing in larger amounts too. If you want to make it easier, mix everything in a big bowl for easy serving. This salad is perfect for parties! This blog post guided you through making a delicious Summer Corn Tomato Salad. We covered fresh ingredients, cooking tips, and variations to suit your taste. Remember to use fresh produce for the best flavor. Don’t forget to experiment with proteins or different dressings to keep it exciting. Storing and reviving leftovers will help you enjoy this dish longer. A tasty salad can brighten up any meal, so go ahead and get creative!](https://tastymomrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/1ce6eec3-7447-468d-86ac-c16be633a778-250x250.webp)