Summery Charred Corn Salad with Basil and Tomatoes

Summer on a plate—that’s exactly what this salad feels like! Sweet, smoky corn meets juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp mini peppers, creamy avocado, and fragrant basil, all tied together with tangy lime and a touch of honey. Every bite is a celebration of fresh flavors, textures, and colors. This isn’t just a salad—it’s a mood-lifter, a side-dish hero, and a showstopper for summer gatherings. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be craving it all season long.

Recipe Origin

This salad draws inspiration from classic summer flavors with a twist of smoky charred corn and a hint of hot honey. It’s inspired by farm-to-table freshness and the kind of bold, bright flavors you find at backyard cookouts or Mediterranean-style dinners.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Grill or grill pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board
• Citrus juicer
• Spoon or spatula for tossing

Why You’ll Love Summery Charred Corn Salad with Basil and Tomatoes

This salad isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about the experience of summer in a bowl. Here’s why it’s a must-make:

Fresh and Vibrant

Every ingredient shines. Sweet corn, ripe tomatoes, and creamy avocado bring a rainbow of colors and flavors.

Quick and Easy

Once the corn is grilled, everything comes together in minutes. Perfect for weeknights or last-minute entertaining.

Crowd-Pleasing

The mix of sweet, smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy makes it irresistible for adults and kids alike.

Healthy and Light

Packed with fresh vegetables, avocado, and feta, it’s filling without being heavy.

Customizable

Add your favorite grains like quinoa or farro for a heartier salad, or swap feta for goat cheese.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Grill the corn until it has a good char for that smoky-sweet flavor.
• Use ripe cherry tomatoes and perfectly ripe avocado for the best flavor.
• Toss the salad gently to keep the avocado and feta cubes intact.
• Let it sit for 10–15 minutes after tossing to let the flavors meld.

Ingredients in Summery Charred Corn Salad with Basil and Tomatoes

Here’s what makes this salad such a flavor-packed summer delight. (Note: full measurements are in the recipe card below.)

Grilled Corn

Sweet, smoky, and charred to perfection—this is the backbone of the salad.

Cherry Tomatoes

Juicy and tangy, they add a burst of freshness in every bite.

Mini Peppers

Crisp and colorful, they give a subtle crunch and mild sweetness.

Red Onion

Adds a gentle bite and sharpness that balances the sweetness of the corn and honey.

Avocado

Creamy, buttery, and rich—avocado makes every forkful feel indulgent.

Basil

Bright and fragrant, it elevates the salad with fresh herbaceous notes.

Green Onions

Add mild oniony flavor without overpowering the salad.

Feta Cheese

Tangy, creamy, and slightly salty, feta ties all the flavors together.

Lime Juice

Adds brightness and acidity, lifting all the ingredients.

Olive Oil

Smooth, fruity, and essential for tossing everything together.

Hot Honey (or regular honey)

Adds a touch of sweetness with a gentle kick if you choose hot honey.

Seasonings

Smoked paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper bring it all together with depth and warmth.

Instructions

Let’s make this vibrant salad step by step:

Grill the Corn

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Grill the corn until lightly charred on all sides. Let it cool slightly, then cut the kernels off the cob.

Prepare the Vegetables

Quarter the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the mini peppers and red onion, cube the avocado, and chiffonade the basil. Chop the green onions and feta.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, hot honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.

Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the grilled corn, tomatoes, mini peppers, red onion, avocado, basil, green onions, and feta. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately for maximum freshness or let sit for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors meld. Perfect as a side or a light lunch.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4–6
Calories per serving: ~250–300 (estimate)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Summery Charred Corn Salad with Basil and Tomatoes

As a Side

Pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or steak.

With Grains

Add cooked quinoa, farro, or couscous for a hearty, vegetarian main dish.

On Tacos

Use as a vibrant topping for chicken, shrimp, or fish tacos.

In Wraps

Add to wraps or pita sandwiches for a fresh crunch.

As a Standalone

Serve chilled or at room temperature for a light, refreshing meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Grill the corn in advance and store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Prepare the dressing ahead and toss just before serving.
• Leftovers keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 1–2 days; toss gently before eating.

Variations to Try

• Cheese Swap: Use goat cheese or cotija instead of feta.
• Extra Heat: Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
• Protein Boost: Add grilled shrimp, chicken, or black beans.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle with toasted pepitas or pine nuts.

Additional Tips

• Cut the avocado last to prevent browning before serving.
• Serve in a colorful bowl to highlight the vibrant ingredients.
• Adjust the honey or lime to taste—some like it sweeter, some more tangy.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this salad vegan?
A1: Yes, simply omit the feta or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

Q2: Can I use frozen corn?
A2: Fresh is best for flavor, but thawed frozen corn works in a pinch.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 1–2 days. Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.

Q4: Can I make this ahead of time?
A4: Prep all ingredients except avocado and toss just before serving.

Q5: What is hot honey and can I substitute?
A5: Hot honey is honey infused with chili. You can use regular honey if you prefer a milder flavor.

Q6: Can I add other vegetables?
A6: Absolutely! Cucumbers, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers work beautifully.

Q7: Can this be a main dish?
A7: Yes! Serve over grains or add protein to make it a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Q8: Can I grill the salad ingredients in advance?
A8: Yes, grill corn and peppers ahead; store in the fridge and assemble when ready.

Q9: Can I adjust the spice level?
A9: Definitely. Reduce or omit hot honey for a milder salad, or add more for a kick.

Q10: How do I make it extra creamy?
A10: Add more avocado or a dollop of Greek yogurt to the dressing.

Conclusion

This Summery Charred Corn Salad with Basil and Tomatoes is a celebration of vibrant summer flavors—smoky, sweet, tangy, and fresh. It’s quick, healthy, colorful, and endlessly versatile. Make it for a picnic, a BBQ, or just because you deserve a little taste of summer on your plate.

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