Description
A vibrant and refreshing Quick & Fresh Tomato Corn Salad featuring sweet steamed corn, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty homemade dressing with fresh basil. Perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack, this salad comes together in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 6 ears corn, shucked (4 to 5 cups cooked corn kernels)
- 12 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered (2 to 3 cups)
- 2 cups diced English cucumber
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, plus a few whole leaves for garnish
Dressing
- 2 Tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
- Fresh ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Steam the Corn: Add one cup of water to a large pot that can fit the ears of corn. Bring the water to a boil, then add the corn ears and cover the pot. Let the corn steam for 3 minutes or until just tender. Use tongs to transfer the corn to a cutting board and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
- Prepare the Salad Base: Once the corn is cool enough to handle, cut the kernels off the cobs and place them in a large mixing bowl. Add the halved or quartered cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red onion, crumbled feta cheese (if using), and sliced fresh basil leaves.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the red wine vinegar, honey, extra virgin olive oil, garlic powder, grated garlic clove, dried oregano, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
- Toss and Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with whole basil leaves before serving.
- Storage: This salad is best enjoyed the day it is prepared for optimal freshness and flavor. Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Notes
- Steaming the corn helps retain its natural sweetness and texture without overcooking.
- Feta cheese adds a creamy, salty contrast but can be omitted for a dairy-free option.
- Use fresh basil for best flavor; avoid dried basil in this recipe.
- Adjust vinegar and honey amounts in the dressing to your taste preference if you prefer it more tangy or sweeter.
- For extra crunch, consider adding chopped bell peppers or radishes.
