If you are searching for a bright, refreshing dish that captures the essence of sun-soaked days, the Summer Corn Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Fresh Herbs Recipe is your new best friend. This colorful salad celebrates the sweet crunch of fresh corn, the juicy burst of cherry tomatoes, and the aromatic charm of fresh basil and cilantro. With a perfect balance of tangy lime and a hint of honey, it is both vibrant and comforting—a flawless companion to any summer get-together or a light, wholesome meal. Trust me, once you try this salad, it’ll become a regular request at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This salad shines because of its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients; each one brings a unique texture and flavor that together create pure magic on your plate.
- 4 ears fresh corn, kernels cut off the cob: Fresh corn delivers sweetness and a lovely crunchy texture; if fresh isn’t available, frozen corn works perfectly.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: These add juicy pops of bright color and sweet acidity that perfectly balance the corn.
- 1/2 small red onion, finely diced: A little bite and sharpness to cut through the sweetness.
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced: Adds subtle sweetness and vibrant red hues that keep the salad lively.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped: Brings a lovely aromatic, peppery freshness.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped: Infuses a bright, citrusy herbal note that lifts the whole salad.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: For richness and to help marry all the flavors together.
- 2 tablespoons lime juice: Adds a burst of fresh, tart brightness that wakes up your taste buds.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: A subtle tang that deepens the dressing without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon honey: Just a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential to enhance all the natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle savory warmth.
How to Make Summer Corn Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Fresh Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. If you’re using fresh corn, carefully cut the kernels off the cob and cook them in the boiling water for only about 3 minutes. This brief cooking keeps them tender yet still crisp. Then drain and rinse the corn under cold water to halt cooking and lock in that fresh flavor. If you prefer convenience, thawed frozen corn is just as excellent and skips straight to the next step.
Step 2: Mix the Fresh Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your beautifully cooked or thawed corn kernels with the halved cherry tomatoes, finely diced red onion, and diced red bell pepper. Toss in the chopped basil and cilantro leaves last to keep their bright color and flavor fresh. This ensemble of ingredients creates layers of texture and a vibrant palette of colors that make your salad pop off the plate.
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until everything is fully emulsified. This zesty dressing brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables while balancing the savory elements effortlessly.
Step 4: Combine and Chill
Pour your dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat every bite with that delicious vinaigrette. You can serve the salad immediately if you’re eager to enjoy it fresh and crisp, or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to let the flavors marry and develop even more depth.
How to Serve Summer Corn Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Fresh Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of crumbled feta or a handful of toasted pepitas adds delightful texture and a burst of flavor. Fresh lime wedges on the side can offer extra zing for those who love a tart finishing touch. Garnishing with additional herbs like more basil or cilantro turns the salad into a feast for the eyes and palate.
Side Dishes
This salad makes a knockout side for grilled meats such as chicken, steak, or seafood. It’s particularly wonderful alongside barbecued shrimp or simply grilled fish, where the fresh, juicy components provide a cool contrast. It is also a fab companion to tacos or quesadillas when you want a healthy, vibrant boost.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Summer Corn Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Fresh Herbs Recipe in colorful bowls or mason jars for easy individual portions. Layering the salad with a dollop of creamy avocado or a sprinkle of crunchy tortilla strips can transform it into a hearty, festive dish perfect for picnics or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover salad in an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays fresh and tasty for up to 2 days, though best enjoyed within the first 24 hours for maximum crunch and flavor vibrancy.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh; freezing is not recommended because the fresh tomatoes and herbs lose their texture and brightness upon thawing, becoming watery and limp.
Reheating
Since this dish is a cold salad, it doesn’t require reheating. Simply give it a gentle stir before serving if it’s been sitting in the fridge to redistribute the dressing.
FAQs
Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?
While canned corn can be used in a pinch, fresh or frozen corn offers a sweeter, crispier texture that really elevates the salad experience.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! The Summer Corn Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Fresh Herbs Recipe is naturally vegan as long as you don’t add cheese or non-vegan toppings.
How long can I prepare this salad in advance?
For the best flavor and texture, prepare it up to a few hours before serving and keep it chilled until ready to eat.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Definitely! Diced cucumber, avocado, or even black beans make fantastic additions that complement the existing flavors and add more substance.
What if I don’t have cilantro?
If cilantro is not your thing or unavailable, fresh parsley is a nice substitute that offers a milder herbal note.
Final Thoughts
This Summer Corn Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Fresh Herbs Recipe is a dazzling celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients that’s quick to pull together and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or craving a light dinner, this salad offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will brighten up any meal. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own!
Print
Summer Corn Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Fresh Herbs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
A vibrant and refreshing summer corn salad featuring sweet corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh herbs, tossed in a tangy lime and apple cider vinegar dressing. Perfect as a light side dish for warm weather meals.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 4 ears fresh corn, kernels cut off the cob (or 3 cups frozen corn, thawed)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Corn: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the fresh corn kernels for 3 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. For frozen corn, thaw and drain thoroughly without cooking.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked corn, halved cherry tomatoes, finely diced red onion, diced red bell pepper, chopped basil, and chopped cilantro.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Serve or Chill: Serve the salad immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- This salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats or seafood.
- For extra flavor and texture, add avocado, feta cheese, or black beans.
