Get ready to transform your summer dining with the most irresistible, mouth-watering corn and tomato salad that will have your guests begging for the recipe! This vibrant, refreshing dish is not just a side – it's a celebration of summer's most delicious produce, packed with bright flavors and crisp textures that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a quick, healthy meal that screams sunshine, this Summer Corn Tomato Salad is your ultimate culinary secret weapon.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh corn, cooked
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove fresh corn kernels from the cob by standing the corn vertically and carefully sliding a sharp knife down the sides, capturing all kernels in a large mixing bowl.
- Wash and halve the cherry tomatoes, ensuring they are cut into uniform bite-sized pieces for consistent texture and appearance.
- Finely dice the red onion into small, even pieces to distribute flavor evenly throughout the salad.
- Rinse and chop fresh cilantro, discarding tough stems and keeping only the tender leaves and soft stems.
- Add cooked corn kernels, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro into the mixing bowl.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice directly over the ingredients, ensuring even distribution.
- Season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper, starting with a small amount and adjusting to taste.
- Gently toss all ingredients together using a large spoon, ensuring everything is well combined without crushing the tomatoes.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or light summer salad, optionally garnishing with additional cilantro leaves.
Tips
- Corn Selection: For the best flavor, use fresh corn and remove kernels just before preparing the salad. If fresh corn isn't available, high-quality frozen corn works as a great alternative.
- Tomato Technique: Choose ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes and cut them uniformly to ensure each bite is perfect. Look for tomatoes that are firm but have a slight give when gently pressed.
- Flavor Enhancing Tricks: Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. The lime juice will help marinate the ingredients and create a more complex taste profile.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a side dish, top it on grilled proteins, or enjoy it as a light lunch. For added protein, consider mixing in some black beans or grilled chicken.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this salad a few hours in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining. Just add the cilantro and dress the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 100kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 4g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
