Corn Tomato Feta Salad

Name: Corn Tomato Feta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 ears of fresh corn, shucked; 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 red onion, thinly sliced; 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; Optional: 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced

Author: Lora

Published: June 30, 2025

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Introduction to Corn Tomato Feta Salad

There’s something about summer that just begs for fresh, vibrant flavors, doesn’t it? I can almost hear the clinking of ice-cold drinks while deciding what to whip up for dinner. That’s where this delightful Corn Tomato Feta Salad enters the scene. It’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of the season! Perfect for busy days when you want something quick and easy, yet elegant enough to impress your loved ones. You won’t believe how simple it is to create a dish that bursts with summer joy, tantalizing tastes, and wholesome goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Corn Tomato Feta Salad

This Corn Tomato Feta Salad is a breath of fresh air during hot summer days. It’s quick to prepare, taking only about 25 minutes from start to finish! The combination of crunchy corn, juicy tomatoes, and creamy feta creates a delightful medley of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use fresh summer produce. You’ll appreciate how it pairs perfectly with just about any main dish!

Ingredients for Corn Tomato Feta Salad

Gathering fresh ingredients is the first step to creating this vibrant Corn Tomato Feta Salad! Each component contributes its own unique flavor, making this salad not just nutritious, but also a feast for the senses. Here’s what you’ll need:

Fresh Corn: Sweet, juicy corn is the star of the show. Look for ears that are bright yellow and plump for the best flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: These bite-sized gems bring a pop of color and sweetness. Their juicy nature complements the crispness of the corn beautifully.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a lovely sharpness, balancing the sweetness of the other ingredients. You can also substitute with green onions for a milder flavor.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta contributes a creamy, tangy element that ties everything together. Feel free to use reduced-fat feta if you’re watching your calories!
Fresh Basil Leaves: Aromatic basil gives a refreshing herbal note. If you don’t have basil, parsley could be a nice substitute.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and depth. It’s also a healthier fat choice that’s perfect for drizzling.
Red Wine Vinegar: This vinegar brings in a tangy acidity. You can swap it with apple cider vinegar if preferred.
Dijon Mustard: Just a hint of Dijon gives the dressing a flavorful kick. It’s optional, but it really enhances the overall taste.
Minced Garlic: A touch of minced garlic adds an aromatic layer. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Season to taste! These staples enhance the flavors of the salad. Always go easy with the salt until you’ve tasted the final mix.
Optional Jalapeño: If you enjoy a little heat, adding diced jalapeño can kick things up a notch! Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

Remember, the exact quantities of these ingredients can be found at the bottom of the article and are available for you to print. Happy prepping!

How to Make Corn Tomato Feta Salad

Now that you have all your vibrant ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this luscious Corn Tomato Feta Salad. Each step is simple, yet leads to a dish that promises delightful flavor and joy. Grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Prepare the Corn

Start by grilling or boiling the fresh corn. If you’re grilling, let those ears sit on the grill until they’re perfectly charred. If boiling, just a few minutes will do! Once done, let the corn cool for a moment, then stand each ear upright on a cutting board. Carefully cut off the kernels with a sharp knife. That sweet spurt of corn juice is simply irresistible!

Step 2: Combine Fresh Ingredients

Dump all those beautiful corn kernels into a large mixing bowl. Next, take your cherry tomatoes and halve them before adding them in. Then, it’s time for the thinly sliced red onion. If you opt for jalapeño, this is the moment to toss that in as well. Finally, sprinkle in the freshly chopped basil. Just looking at this colorful mix will make your heart sing!

Step 3: Whisk the Dressing

Grab a small bowl and whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. This dressing is simple yet zesty. Season it with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. You can’t go wrong here—this is your chance to infuse flavors right into the salad!

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Now for the fun part! Pour that tangy dressing over your bowl of vibrant veggies. Gently toss everything together using two big spoons. You want each flavorful nugget to be coated without bruising your ingredients. Crumble the feta cheese over the top and toss gently once more. Oh, the creaminess of the feta is like a luxurious embrace!

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Before you dive in, take a moment to taste your salad. Does it need more salt or pepper? A tad more mustard? This step is crucial, as it helps you find the perfect balance of flavors. It’s like tuning a musical instrument—just a little tweak can make a world of difference!

Step 6: Serve or Chill

Here comes the exciting part. You can serve this corn tomato feta salad right away for a fresh crunch, or you have the option to chill it for later. Chilling for an hour or two deepens the flavors, but remember to add the feta just before serving if you choose to refrigerate it. Either way, it’s going to be a hit!

Tips for Success

Use the freshest corn you can find for the best flavor—nothing beats that summer sweetness!
Season your dressing with care. Start small and adjust to your taste.
For an even fresher taste, make the salad a few hours in advance and chill it.
Feel free to experiment with ingredients based on your family’s preferences!
Don’t forget to reserve some feta for garnish to make it look appealing.

Equipment Needed

Sharp Knife: Essential for cutting corn and veggies. A chef’s knife will do the trick.
Cutting Board: Use a sturdy surface to safely chop your ingredients.
Large Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining all your salad components.
Small Bowl: Ideal for whisking together the dressing ingredients.
Whisk or Fork: You’ll need this to mix your dressing up nicely.

Variations of Corn Tomato Feta Salad

Grilled Vegetables: Add grilled zucchini or bell peppers for a smoky twist and extra nutrition.
Quinoa Booster: Incorporate cooked quinoa for added protein and a heartier texture.
Vegan Option: Substitute feta with crumbled tofu or avocado for a creamy consistency without dairy.
Bean Mix: Toss in black beans or chickpeas for additional protein and a satisfying crunch.
Herb Variation: Experiment with fresh dill or mint in place of basil for a different herby flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Corn Tomato Feta Salad

Perfect Pairing: This salad shines alongside grilled chicken or fish, enhancing the flavors of your main dish.
Drink Match: Serve with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water to balance the salad’s zest.
Presentation: Consider serving in a colorful bowl and top with extra basil for a lovely touch!

FAQs about Corn Tomato Feta Salad

As you prepare to whip up this delightful Corn Tomato Feta Salad, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries and helpful answers to make your cooking experience even better!

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh? Absolutely! While fresh corn offers the best flavor, frozen corn is a convenient alternative. Just thaw it before adding to the salad.

How long can I store leftovers? If stored in an airtight container in the fridge, this salad can last about 2-3 days. Just remember to add the crumbled feta before serving to keep it fresh.

What can I substitute for feta cheese? If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, try using goat cheese or a vegan option like avocado or crumbled tofu. Each will give a unique twist to the salad!

Can I make it ahead of time? Yes! This Corn Tomato Feta Salad is perfect for making ahead. Just mix everything except the feta and chill it. Add the cheese just before serving for the best texture.

How spicy does it get with jalapeño? The spice level can be adjusted based on your taste. Use half a jalapeño for mild heat or a whole for more kick. Feel free to skip it altogether if preferred!

Final Thoughts

Every bite of this Corn Tomato Feta Salad transports me straight to sunny picnics and backyard barbecues. The mix of sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and tangy feta creates a melody of summer flavors that feels like a warm hug. Whether you whip this up as a quick weeknight side or impress your guests at a gathering, it brings people together over vibrant tastes. Plus, making it is an adventure in itself, and that’s what cooking is all about! So grab your ingredients, and let the magic of this salad unfold at your next meal.