Fresh Corn Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Feta, and Basil Recipe
Introduction
This vibrant corn salad is a fresh, flavorful side perfect for warm weather meals or a light lunch. Combining sweet corn with tangy lime, creamy feta, and fresh herbs, it’s both simple and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn, rinsed and drained if frozen, and steamed, boiled, or grilled if fresh
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 lime, juiced
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped red onion, prepared corn, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta, and thinly sliced basil.
- Step 2: Drizzle with the olive oil and lime juice, then toss gently to combine. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately or chill before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For added crunch, sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts on top.
- Substitute basil with fresh cilantro or parsley for a different herbaceous note.
- Use grilled corn for a smoky flavor that enhances the salad’s freshness.
- Add diced avocado just before serving to introduce a creamy texture.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The lime juice helps keep it fresh but the tomatoes and avocado, if added, may soften over time. For best taste, enjoy within the first day and avoid reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?
Yes, canned corn can be used in a pinch. Be sure to drain and rinse it thoroughly to reduce excess salt and liquid before adding to the salad.
How can I make this salad vegan?
Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative or toasted nuts for added texture.
PrintFresh Corn Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Feta, and Basil Recipe
A fresh and vibrant Corn Salad featuring sweet corn, juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, and aromatic basil, all tossed in a zesty lime and olive oil dressing. Perfect as a light side dish or a refreshing summer salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn, rinsed and drained if frozen, and steamed, boiled, or grilled if fresh
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 lime, juiced
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Corn: If using fresh corn, steam, boil, or grill the corn until tender and let it cool; if frozen, rinse and drain the corn after thawing. This enhances the natural sweetness and ensures the corn is cooked perfectly.
- Chop the Vegetables: Finely chop the red onion and halve the cherry tomatoes for even flavor distribution and texture in the salad.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the prepared corn, chopped red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and thinly sliced basil leaves together until well mixed.
- Add Dressing: Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lime juice over the salad mixture to add a bright, zesty flavor.
- Season: Sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, then toss everything once more to combine the seasoning evenly throughout the salad.
- Serve: Serve immediately or chill briefly to let flavors meld; this salad makes a refreshing side dish for any meal.
Notes
- Fresh corn is preferred for the best flavor, but frozen corn works well when prepared properly.
- Adjust the lime juice and salt levels to taste for a more tangy or salty profile.
- For a vegan version, omit the feta or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature.
- Add toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch and texture if desired.
Keywords: corn salad, summer salad, fresh corn, feta cheese, tomato salad, basil salad, lime dressing, easy side dish
