Basil and Feta Corn Salad

Ever wondered how to transform humble corn into a sensational summer masterpiece? Picture this: sweet corn kissed by the Mediterranean, a symphony of basil and feta, and a balsamic breeze. Get ready to savor the sunny vibes with this irresistible basil and feta corn salad recipe!

Looking for more?

Try these other corn recipes! Corn on the Cob Seasoning and pair this with my Grilled New York Steaks.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Vibrant Flavors: Indulge in the explosion of taste that arises from the marriage of sweet corn, zesty Mediterranean spices, and the creamy richness of feta. Each bite is a burst of pure culinary delight.
• Seasonal Sensation: Embrace the essence of summer with every forkful. The combination of fresh basil, corn, and tangy balsamic vinegar transports you to sun-soaked days, making it a must-have dish for warm-weather gatherings.
• Easy Mediterranean Twist: Elevate your cooking effortlessly with this recipe's Mediterranean spice blend. The blend of dried oregano, thyme, and basil brings a touch of the Mediterranean coast to your table, making your meal both approachable and exotic.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Full list of ingredients with measurements listed below in recipe card. 

• Corn: Central ingredient. Adds a natural sweetness and satisfying crunch to the salad.
  • You can also use frozen corn if fresh corn is unavailable.
• Red Onion: Provides a pungent and crisp contrast to the sweetness of the corn.
  • You can also use shallots for a milder flavor.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Infuses a tangy depth that complements the Mediterranean spices and adds a touch of acidity.
  • You can also use red wine vinegar as an alternative.
• Olive Oil: Enhances the richness of the salad, creating a smooth and balanced texture.
  • You can also use avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
• Mediterranean Spice Blend (Oregano, Thyme, Basil): Elevates the dish with aromatic notes of the Mediterranean region.
  • You can also customize the spice blend by adding rosemary or marjoram.
• Fresh Basil: Infuses the salad with a burst of freshness and a touch of herbal aroma.
  • You can also use fresh parsley if basil is not available.
• Feta Cheese: Offers a creamy and salty element that beautifully contrasts the sweet corn and enhances overall flavor.
  • You can also use goat cheese for a tangy twist.

Equipment Needed

• 
  Large Pot: For boiling the corn.
• Colander: To drain the cooked corn.
• Large Bowl: For mixing and tossing the salad ingredients.
• Knife: To cut the corn kernels off the cob and dice the red onion.
• Cutting Board: To provide a surface for chopping and slicing.
• Measuring Spoons: For precise measurements of vinegar, olive oil, and spices.
• Ice Water Bowl: To quickly cool down the cooked corn and stop the cooking process.
• Strainer: To rinse and drain the fresh basil leaves.
• Serving Dish: To present the final salad.
• Crumbled Feta Bowl: For holding the crumbled feta before adding it to the salad.

How to Make this Recipe

Full step-by-step instructions listed below in recipe card. 

To create the Basil and Feta Corn Salad with Balsamic Vinegar and Mediterranean Spices, begin by shucking 2 ears of corn and bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, cook the corn for about 3 minutes until the starchiness diminishes. Drain the corn and promptly submerge it in a bowl of ice water to preserve its color and halt the cooking process.

After the corn cools, skillfully cut the kernels off the cob, keeping them close to the cob. In a spacious bowl, mix the corn kernels with ½ cup of finely diced red onion, 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, ½ teaspoon each of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, and the Mediterranean spice blend composed of ½ teaspoon of dried oregano, ¼ teaspoon of dried thyme, and ¼ teaspoon of dried basil.

Thoroughly combine all the ingredients. Just prior to serving, gently incorporate ¼ cup of julienned fresh basil leaves and ¼ cup of crumbled feta cheese into the mixture. Taste to adjust seasoning as necessary. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, savoring the harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Variations

• Grilled Corn: Instead of boiling the corn, grill the shucked ears of corn on a barbecue or stovetop grill pan for a smoky flavor.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different fresh herbs. Try using mint, cilantro, or even a combination of herbs like parsley and chives for diverse flavors.
• Cheese Swaps: Switch out the feta cheese for other crumbled cheeses such as goat cheese, blue cheese, or even grated Parmesan for a unique twist.
• Add Nuts: Add a crunchy element by incorporating toasted pine nuts, chopped almonds, or walnuts to the salad.
• Sweet Pepper Addition: Include diced sweet bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange) for added color and sweetness.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes can add a burst of juiciness and color to the salad.
• Protein Boost: For a heartier version, mix in cooked and diced chicken, shrimp, or beans like chickpeas or black beans.
• Citrus Zest: Add a zesty kick by grating a bit of lemon or lime zest into the salad.
• Avocado Creaminess: Introduce diced avocado to enhance the creaminess and richness of the dish.
• Vegan Twist: To make it vegan, skip the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative, and make sure to use a vegan-friendly balsamic vinegar.

Wine Pairing

For the Basil and Feta Corn Salad with Balsamic Vinegar and Mediterranean Spices, a crisp and refreshing white wine would complement the flavors nicely. Consider pairing it with a Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio. These wines often have bright acidity, herbal notes, and citrus undertones that can enhance the salad's fresh and Mediterranean-inspired profile. Additionally, a light rosé with its delicate fruity and floral notes could also be a delightful choice. As always, personal preferences play a role, so feel free to choose a wine that aligns with your taste preferences.

FAQ's

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?

Absolutely! While fresh corn adds a wonderful crunch, frozen corn can be a convenient substitute. Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen corn before using it in the recipe.

Can I prepare the salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours ahead of time. However, it's recommended to add the fresh basil and crumbled feta just before serving to maintain their flavors and textures.

Can I adjust the amount of balsamic vinegar used?

Certainly! The balsamic vinegar adds tanginess and depth, but you can adjust the amount to your taste. Start with the recommended amount and add more gradually if you prefer a stronger vinegar flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely. To make this recipe vegan, skip the feta cheese or use a vegan-friendly cheese alternative. Ensure that you also use a balsamic vinegar that is vegan.

How long does this salad stay fresh?

The salad is best enjoyed on the day it's prepared. However, if you need to store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Keep in mind that the texture of the salad might change slightly due to the moisture content of the ingredients.

Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Certainly! While the recipe features corn, basil, and red onion as the primary ingredients, you can get creative and add other vegetables like diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or cucumbers for extra color and crunch.

Can I adjust the Mediterranean spice blend?

Absolutely! The spice blend can be customized to suit your preferences. You can increase or decrease the quantities of oregano, thyme, and basil, or even add other Mediterranean herbs like rosemary or marjoram.

Can I use different types of vinegar?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of vinegar. Red wine vinegar, white wine vinegar, or even lemon juice can be used as alternatives to balsamic vinegar to achieve slightly different flavor profiles.

Tips

• Corn Cooking Time: When boiling the corn, make sure to cook it just until the starchiness is gone (around 3 minutes). Overcooking can result in mushy corn kernels.
• Cooling the Corn: Immersing the cooked corn in ice water promptly stops the cooking process and helps retain the vibrant color and crispness of the kernels.
• Balancing Spices: The Mediterranean spice blend adds depth, so adjust the quantities to find your preferred balance. You can add a touch more of a particular spice if you enjoy its flavor.
• Herb Freshness: Add the julienned fresh basil just before serving to preserve its vibrant color and aromatic qualities. This ensures that the basil remains a prominent and fresh element in each bite.
• Feta Distribution: Distribute the crumbled feta cheese evenly throughout the salad to ensure every portion has a delightful cheesy kick.
• Taste and Adjust: Before serving, give the salad a taste test. Adjust salt, pepper, and other seasonings if needed to achieve a well-balanced flavor.
• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. While best enjoyed fresh, the salad can be consumed within 1-2 days.

Looking for more recipes?

Try these other corn recipes! Corn on the Cob Seasoning and Corn Casserole.

Did You Make this Recipe?

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Recipe Card

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