Fresh, juicy tomatoes and sweet, grilled corn come together in a vibrant parade of colors and flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Marinated cherry tomatoes recipe The Grilled Corn and Tomato Salad is not just a dish; it’s an experience, a celebration of summer that bursts with every bite.
Picture this: warm evenings with the sun setting low, laughter ringing through the air, and a bowl of this salad on the table, glistening like a treasure. Asian chicken salad pairing This delightful creation is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or simply as a light dinner that will leave you feeling refreshed and satisfied. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Avocado Melt recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Grilled Corn and Tomato Salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion
- The combination of sweet corn and ripe tomatoes creates a flavor explosion in every bite
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table setting
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served as a side or enjoyed on its own as a main dish
I remember the first time I made this salad for my friends at a backyard barbecue. Their eyes lit up when they tasted it, and someone even exclaimed they could hear the corn singing! It was one of those moments where food brought everyone together in joyous harmony. For more inspiration, check out this No Bake Pumpkin Pie recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Corn: Choose ears that are bright green with plump kernels for the sweetest flavor.
Ripe Tomatoes: Look for firm but slightly soft tomatoes; they should smell like summer.
Red Onion: A small amount adds crunch and sharpness without overpowering the salad.
Fresh Basil: Use fragrant basil leaves to add a burst of freshness and aromatic flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavors; use the good stuff for best results.
Balsamic Vinegar: This brings acidity that balances sweetness beautifully—don’t skip it!
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Grill the Corn: Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Peel back the husks but don’t remove them completely; soak them in water for 10 minutes before grilling. Place corn on the grill until charred all over for about 10-15 minutes.
Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar with salt and pepper until well combined. This dressing will bring everything together beautifully.
Chop Your Veggies: While the corn cools down, chop your ripe tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Dice half an onion finely to add some zing to your salad.
Cut the Corn Off the Cob: Once cooled slightly, carefully cut off the kernels from each ear of corn using a sharp knife. Aim for clean cuts to keep those juicy flavors intact.
Toss It All Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine grilled corn kernels, chopped tomatoes, diced onion, and fresh basil leaves. Grilled cheese with peaches Drizzle with dressing and mix gently until everything is well coated.
Serve & Enjoy!: Transfer your colorful salad to a serving bowl or individual plates. Garnish with extra basil if desired—and watch as everyone digs in eagerly!
This Grilled Corn and Tomato Salad will surely become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Whether it’s a sunny picnic or an indoor family dinner, this dish brings smiles every time! Crunchy pickled salad recipe.
You Must Know
- Grilled Corn and Tomato Salad is a refreshing dish perfect for summer
- The combination of sweet corn and juicy tomatoes creates a vibrant medley of flavors
- Remember to use fresh ingredients for the best taste, and don’t skip the grilling step to enhance the smokiness!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by grilling the corn until slightly charred, then chop it up while letting it cool. Prepare the tomatoes and dressing while the corn cools for a seamless cooking experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to mix in avocados or feta cheese for added creaminess. You can also swap basil for cilantro if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy it cold; reheating might make it soggy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For optimal flavor, grill the corn just until lightly charred; this enhances sweetness
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving
- Fresh herbs elevate the dish, so don’t skip them!
Cooking this salad reminds me of summer BBQs with friends, where laughter and delicious food filled the air. It’s always a hit!
FAQ
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen corn works well; just thaw and pat dry before grilling.
How do I know when my tomatoes are ripe enough?
Look for firm, fragrant tomatoes with smooth skin and vibrant color.
Is there a way to make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Just omit any cheese or dairy products from the recipe.
Grilled Corn and Tomato Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of summer with this refreshing Grilled Corn and Tomato Salad. Bursting with sweet, charred corn and juicy tomatoes, this dish is perfect for warm evenings, picnics, or barbecues. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, it serves as a delightful side or a light main course that will leave everyone craving more.
Ingredients
- 4 ears fresh corn
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Peel back corn husks without removing them completely; soak in water for 10 minutes.
- Grill the corn for 10-15 minutes until charred all over. Allow to cool slightly before cutting off the kernels.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
- Chop tomatoes and dice onion while corn cools.
- In a large bowl, combine grilled corn kernels, chopped tomatoes, onion, and basil. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: - For added creaminess, consider mixing in diced avocados or crumbled feta cheese. - Substitute basil with cilantro for a different flavor profile. - This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.