Summery Charred Corn Salad with Basil and Tomatoes

Discover the fresh flavors of Summery Charred Corn Salad with Basil and Tomatoes, a vibrant and delicious dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer in every bite. This salad is a celebration of perfectly grilled corn, sweet ripe tomatoes, and fragrant fresh basil, all combined to create a refreshing and colorful dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Whether you’re looking for a quick side or a light meal, this salad is bursting with sunshine and simple ingredients that highlight the best of the season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright, Fresh Flavors: Each ingredient shines with natural sweetness and a hint of smokiness from the charred corn.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps and approachable ingredients mean you’ll be enjoying this salad in no time.
• Perfect for Summer Gatherings: It’s colorful, crowd-pleasing, and pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes.
• Healthy and Light: Packed with vegetables and herbs, it’s low-calorie but full of nutrients.
• Versatile and Customizable: Great as a side or main, and easy to tweak to personal tastes or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role in flavor, texture, or visual appeal. Fresh produce, quality olive oil, and a touch of seasoning come together to create a salad that’s vibrant and satisfying.

• Fresh Corn on the Cob: Grilling brings out the sweetness and adds a subtle smoky char.
• Ripe Tomatoes: Use juicy, in-season tomatoes for their natural acidity and bright color.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Adds a fragrant, herbaceous note that perfectly complements the corn and tomatoes.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Provides a silky richness and helps bind the salad together.
• Lemon Juice or Lime Juice: A splash of citrus balances the sweetness with a refreshing tang.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
• Optional Additions: Red onion for a little bite, feta cheese for creaminess, or chili flakes for heat.

Variations for Summery Charred Corn Salad with Basil and Tomatoes

Feel free to make this salad your own! Whether you’re accommodating dietary preferences or just love trying new flavor combinations, these variations offer easy swaps and additions to keep the dish interesting and tailored to your taste buds.

• Add Avocado: Dice ripe avocado for creamy texture and healthy fats.
• Swap Basil for Mint or Cilantro: Use herbs that match your flavor preferences or what you have on hand.
• Include Grilled Peppers: Add smoky sweetness with charred bell peppers or poblano chilies.
• Use a Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle to add complexity and sweetness for a gourmet touch.
• Make it Vegan: Skip cheese or replace with a plant-based alternative or toasted nuts for crunch.

How to Make Summery Charred Corn Salad with Basil and Tomatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Corn

Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the husks from the corn and brush lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill the corn, turning occasionally, until charred on all sides and tender, about 8-10 minutes. Once done, let the corn cool slightly before slicing the kernels off the cob.

Step 2: Chop the Tomatoes and Basil

While the corn cooks, chop your fresh tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Tear or slice the basil leaves thinly, releasing their aroma and flavor. Add both to a large mixing bowl ready for the dressing.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the grilled corn kernels into the bowl with the tomatoes and basil. Stir in a drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice, and season with salt and pepper. Toss everything gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Add Optional Extras

If you like, fold in thinly sliced red onions, crumbled feta cheese, or a pinch of chili flakes here. These extras bring added layers of flavor and texture without overpowering the fresh core ingredients.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For best results, refrigerate the salad for at least 20 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the flavors meld beautifully and enhances the overall freshness of the dish.

Pro Tips for Making Summery Charred Corn Salad with Basil and Tomatoes

• Freshness Matters: Use the freshest corn and tomatoes you can find for vibrant flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overchar: Aim for a nice char, not blackened, to keep a balance of smokiness and sweetness.
• Chop Basil Just Before Serving: This preserves its bright color and fragrant aroma.
• Adjust Citrus to Taste: Start with a little lemon or lime juice and add more as needed to brighten up the salad.
• Serve at Room Temperature: This helps the flavors open up and keeps the salad tasting fresh.

How to Serve Summery Charred Corn Salad with Basil and Tomatoes

Garnishes

Top the salad with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or pepitas for crunch, or add a few fresh basil leaves on top for an inviting presentation. A light drizzle of balsamic reduction can also make the colors pop while adding subtle tang.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken, fish, or steak, and is also fantastic alongside roasted vegetables or as part of a picnic spread with crusty bread and cheeses.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in hollowed-out tomato halves or avocado boats for an elegant look, or layer it atop mixed greens to transform it into a hearty summer lunch. For parties, use small glasses or jars for single servings to wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover salad in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the texture of tomatoes might soften slightly, but the flavors remain delicious and vibrant.

Freezing

Because the salad contains fresh tomatoes and basil, freezing is not recommended as these ingredients will lose their texture and freshness.

Reheating

This dish is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is generally not necessary. If needed, allow leftovers to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste experience.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn for this salad?

While fresh corn is ideal for the best sweetness and texture, frozen corn can work in a pinch; just thaw and drain well, then quickly sauté or grill for extra flavor.

What type of tomatoes work best?

Opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes such as heirloom, cherry, or vine-ripened for the most flavor and vibrant color in your salad.

Is this salad suitable for vegans?

Absolutely! Just leave out any cheese or substitute with vegan cheese or toasted nuts to keep it plant-based and tasty.

How do I store the salad without it getting soggy?

Store the dressing separately if possible or add the citrus juice and olive oil right before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it a few hours ahead and chill it, but for the freshest experience, add basil and dressings shortly before serving.

Final Thoughts

Summery Charred Corn Salad with Basil and Tomatoes is your new go-to recipe for bright, bold, and fresh summer eating. It’s easy, adaptable, and truly a joy to make and share. Give it a try and savor the perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and herbaceous flavors that make summer special.

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