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Summer is the season of vibrant flavors, and what better way to celebrate than with a fresh and colorful Summer Corn and Tomato Fest salad? This delightful dish is not only visually appealing but also bursting with nutrients, making it the perfect addition to your warm-weather gatherings. As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, the season brings an abundance of fresh produce, particularly corn and tomatoes, which are at their peak during these months. In this article, we will delve into the essential ingredients, preparation methods, and health benefits of each component, ensuring you can create a dish that delights both the palate and the body.

Summer Corn and Tomato Salad

Celebrate the vibrant flavors of summer with a fresh Summer Corn and Tomato Fest salad! This colorful dish features sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, crisp bell peppers, and aromatic basil, creating a delightful blend of taste and nutrition. Learn about the essential ingredients, step-by-step preparation, and the health benefits of each component. Perfect for warm-weather gatherings, this salad not only looks stunning but is also a wholesome addition to any meal. Enjoy this seasonal delight!

Ingredients
  

4 ears of fresh corn, husked

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (variety of colors for visual appeal)

1 red bell pepper, diced

½ red onion, finely chopped

½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn

¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1 avocado, diced (optional, for creaminess)

Crumbled feta cheese (optional, for a salty touch)

Instructions
 

Cook the Corn: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the husked corn and cook for about 5-7 minutes until tender. Remove from the pot and let cool slightly before cutting the kernels off the cob into a large mixing bowl.

    Prep the Veggies: While the corn is cooling, prepare the other ingredients. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the red bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion. Add all of these ingredients to the bowl with the corn.

      Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper until well combined.

        Combine the Salad: Pour the dressing over the corn and vegetable mixture. Add the torn basil leaves and gently toss everything together until well-coated. If opting for avocado, carefully fold it in at this stage to prevent it from mashing.

          Add Feta: If using feta cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the salad and lightly toss again, or leave it as a topping for presentation.

            Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the ingredients to mingle. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with extra basil leaves if desired.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour (chill time included) | Serves 4-6