Summer is the season when the farmers markets overflow with sweet corn, sun-ripened cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, creamy avocados, and crisp cucumbers. This colorful salad brings together some of summer’s finest ingredients in one fresh, vibrant bowl that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor, it’s the perfect side dish for backyard barbecues, Fourth of July celebrations, picnics, and weeknight dinners on the patio. A simple basil-lime vinaigrette lets the fresh produce shine, while creamy avocado adds richness to every bite.
Serve it alongside grilled burgers, chicken, seafood, or steaks—or enjoy it on its own with a loaf of crusty bread for a light summer meal. Best of all, it comes together in minutes, making it an easy way to celebrate the season’s bounty.
INGREDIENTS:
1/4 cup minced fresh basil
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons lime juice
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 cups fresh corn kernels*
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1 cup chopped seeded peeled cucumber
1 avocado, diced
Lime wedges and sprigs of basil, garnish
METHOD:
Place basil, oil, lime juice, sugar, salt, and pepper in a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Shake vigorously to combine ingredients; set aside.
Gently combine the corn, tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and avocado in a large bowl. Drizzle with dressing; toss to coat. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Garnish with lime wedges and basil sprigs, if desired.
*Blanch several cobs of corn in boiling water for three minutes. Remove and place in cold water to cool, then remove corn with a knife. Frozen corn can be substituted for fresh corn.
Optional Additions
- Crumbled cotija or feta cheese
- Fresh cilantro in place of basil
- Grilled corn for a subtle smoky flavor
- A pinch of chili flakes or Tajín for a little kick
Kitchen Tip
No need to blanch super-fresh corn! If your corn is exceptionally sweet and fresh from the farmers market, simply cut the kernels from the cob and use them raw. Their natural crunch and sweetness are wonderful in this salad. Blanching for three minutes softens the kernels slightly if you prefer a more a more tender texture.
YIELD: 6 servings
