Corn And Tomato Salad With Balsamic Vinegar
If you're looking for a delicious and refreshing salad to serve at your next summer gathering, this Corn and Tomato Salad with Balsamic Vinegar is a must-try. The combination of sweet corn and juicy tomatoes with tangy balsamic vinegar dressing is a perfect mix of flavors and textures that's sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 5 ears of corn)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by cooking the fresh corn kernels. In a large pot of boiling water, cook the corn for about 3-5 minutes, or until tender. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and chopped basil leaves. Toss together until well combined.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Pour over the corn and tomato mixture, and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving, or overnight for maximum flavor.
- When ready to serve, give the salad a good stir and adjust the seasoning to taste. Enjoy!
Variations
This Corn and Tomato Salad with Balsamic Vinegar is a versatile dish that you can customize to your liking. Here are some delicious variations you can try:
- Add chopped avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
- Swap out the cherry tomatoes for diced roma or heirloom tomatoes for a different flavor and texture.
- You can also add other vegetables like diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or even grilled zucchini.
- Add some cooked quinoa or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber.
- Sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese for a tangy and salty flavor.
- For extra crunch, add some roasted pepitas or chopped almonds.
Benefits of Corn and Tomatoes
Aside from being delicious and refreshing, this Corn and Tomato Salad with Balsamic Vinegar is also packed with nutrients and health benefits. Here are some of the benefits of two main ingredients:
- Corn is a good source of dietary fiber, which helps regulate digestion and prevent constipation. It's also rich in antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which promote healthy vision and reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
- Tomatoes are low in calories but high in vitamins C, A, and K, as well as potassium and lycopene. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to lower risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer, including prostate cancer.
Conclusion
If you're looking for a healthy and flavorful salad that's easy to make and perfect for summer, try this Corn and Tomato Salad with Balsamic Vinegar. With its colorful mix of fresh vegetables, tangy dressing, and versatile variations, it's sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!