Description
Grilled Corn and Tomato Spinach Salad with Feta and Basil Dressing
Ingredients
4 cups fresh spinach
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved and lightly grilled
1 cup grilled corn (fresh or frozen)
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
For the Basil Dressing:
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp honey
1 clove garlic
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Grill the veggies: Grill cherry tomatoes and corn until slightly charred (about 2-3 minutes for tomatoes and 5 minutes for corn). Let them cool slightly.
Make the basil dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine basil leaves, olive oil, lemon juice, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, layer the spinach, grilled corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese.
Drizzle and serve: Pour the basil dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~220 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. While it heats, wash and thoroughly dry the spinach. Halve the cherry tomatoes and thinly slice the red onion. For the corn, if using fresh ears, brush lightly with oil before grilling. Place the corn and tomato halves on the hot grill. Grill corn for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until kernels are tender and have some char. Grill tomatoes cut-side down for just 2-3 minutes until they soften and get grill marks. Remove and let cool slightly. Once the corn is cool enough to handle, carefully cut the kernels off the cob.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad shines as a light lunch but can be easily elevated. Serve it as a vibrant side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp for a complete protein-packed meal. For a heartier vegetarian option, top with a scoop of quinoa or crispy chickpeas. To present, consider serving it on a large platter and garnishing with extra whole basil leaves and a sprinkle of black pepper.
How-to Summary
In short: Grill corn and tomatoes until charred. Blend basil, oil, lemon juice, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper into a dressing. Combine cooled grilled veggies with fresh spinach, red onion, and feta in a bowl. Drizzle with dressing, toss gently, and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, but with prep. Grill the veggies and make the dressing up to a day ahead. Store separately in the fridge. Assemble and dress just before serving to keep the spinach crisp.
What if I don’t have a grill? Use a grill pan on the stovetop or a broiler. For the corn, frozen fire-roasted corn kernels warmed in a skillet are an excellent quick alternative.
How can I make this dairy-free or vegan? Simply omit the feta or substitute it with a vegan feta alternative or creamy avocado chunks. Ensure the honey in the dressing is replaced with maple syrup or agave.
Is there a substitute for fresh basil in the dressing? While fresh is best, in a pinch you can use 1 tablespoon of high-quality pesto thinned with the olive oil and lemon juice.
My dressing is too thick. How do I thin it? Add more olive oil or a teaspoon of water at a time while blending until you reach your desired consistency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Dressing the salad too early: This will cause the delicate spinach to wilt. Always dress right before serving.
- Over-grilling the tomatoes: They become mushy. Aim for brief grilling just to soften and add flavor.
- Not letting grilled veggies cool: Adding them hot will wilt the spinach. Let them cool for 5-10 minutes.
- Using a dull knife for corn: A sharp chef’s knife is crucial for safely and cleanly removing kernels from the cob.
Conclusion
This Grilled Corn and Tomato Spinach Salad is a celebration of summer’s best produce, transformed with simple grilling and a vibrant homemade dressing. It masterfully combines smoky sweetness, creamy feta, and peppery spinach for a dish that is both nutritious and bursting with flavor. Quick to prepare yet impressive in presentation, it’s a guaranteed winner for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Give this recipe a try and taste the essence of summer in every bite.