This BEST Asparagus & Summer Corn Salad is like a summer hug in a bowl, mingling sweet corn and tender asparagus with zesty notes that dance on your taste buds. Imagine biting into the crispness of fresh veggies, the crunch of toasted nuts, and the bright flavors that scream sunshine—it’s a party for your palate!

Every bite takes me back to lazy summer picnics where we’d gather outside, laughter filled the air, and this salad was always the star of the show. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this dish promises to elevate any occasion with its vibrant colors and refreshing taste.

Ingredients for BEST Asparagus & Summer Corn Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Asparagus: Choose bright green stalks with firm tips for optimal crunch and flavor.
• Sweet Corn: Freshly shucked corn is best, but frozen works in a pinch—just ensure it’s thawed.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for ripe tomatoes bursting with sweetness; they add color and juicy flavor.
• Red Onion: Thin slices bring a mild pungency that balances the sweetness of corn and tomatoes.
• Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavors; drizzle generously for richness.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness; it’s like a little sunshine in every bite.
• Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate all the flavors—don’t skimp on these essentials!
• Toasted Almonds (or your favorite nuts): They provide crunch and nutty flavor; toast them lightly for added depth.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

this recipe

How to Make BEST Asparagus & Summer Corn Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Asparagus

Start by rinsing your asparagus under cool water. Snap off the tough ends—trust me, it’s like giving them a spa day! Then chop them into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Corn

If using fresh corn, bring a pot of water to boil and blanch the corn cobs for about three minutes. If you’re using frozen corn, just give it a quick microwave zap until warm. Either way, let it cool before adding it to our salad masterpiece.

Step 3: Chop and Combine

In a large mixing bowl, toss together your chopped asparagus, sweet corn (fresh or frozen), halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. The colors should start looking like a summer sunset!

Step 4: Dress it Up

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice along with salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle this dressing over your colorful mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated.

Step 5: Add Crunch

Now comes the fun part! Sprinkle toasted almonds over the top for that satisfying crunch. You can also use sunflower seeds if you’re feeling adventurous!

Step 6: Serve with Style

Transfer your vibrant salad onto plates or serve it in a beautiful bowl at your gathering. It’s visually stunning—just don’t forget to take some pictures because everyone will want to know how you made such magic!

Dig into this BEST Asparagus & Summer Corn Salad as either an exciting side dish or as a light main course on those hot summer days when cooking feels like too much work! Enjoy every refreshing bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by prepping your veggies, ensuring everything is fresh and chopped. While cooking your corn, grill or sauté the asparagus until tender. Combine them in a large bowl while dressing them with a zesty vinaigrette for maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the corn for black beans for extra protein or add cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness. A splash of lime juice gives it an exciting twist, while herbs like cilantro can elevate your salad further.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, give it a quick toss in a skillet over medium heat to preserve texture and flavor.

I once made this salad for a picnic, and it was such a hit that friends still talk about it! It’s amazing how something so simple can turn into a crowd-pleaser when dressed right.

FAQs:

What makes the BEST Asparagus & Summer Corn Salad?

The BEST Asparagus & Summer Corn Salad features fresh, vibrant ingredients that highlight the flavors of summer. This salad combines tender asparagus with sweet summer corn, creating a delightful contrast in textures. Using a light dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them. The addition of fresh herbs like basil or parsley elevates the dish, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Can I add protein to the BEST Asparagus & Summer Corn Salad?

Yes, you can easily add protein to the BEST Asparagus & Summer Corn Salad to make it more filling. Grilled chicken or turkey breast works wonderfully, providing a lean source of protein that complements the vegetables. If you prefer plant-based options, consider adding chickpeas or quinoa for a nutritious boost. These additions will enhance the salad’s nutritional profile while maintaining its fresh and vibrant flavor.

How should I store leftovers of the BEST Asparagus & Summer Corn Salad?

To store leftovers of the BEST Asparagus & Summer Corn Salad, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can last for 2-3 days in the fridge. However, if you’ve added a dressing that contains vinegar or citrus juice, it may cause the vegetables to wilt faster. For optimal freshness, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.

What variations can I try with the BEST Asparagus & Summer Corn Salad?

There are numerous variations you can try with the BEST Asparagus & Summer Corn Salad! Consider adding cherry tomatoes for extra color and sweetness or avocado for creaminess. You could also experiment with different herbs such as dill or cilantro for unique flavor profiles. Adding nuts like almonds or walnuts can provide a crunchy element and healthy fats. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion for BEST Asparagus & Summer Corn Salad:

In summary, the BEST Asparagus & Summer Corn Salad is a refreshing dish perfect for warm weather meals. Combining fresh asparagus and sweet corn creates a delightful mix of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy. With simple substitutions and easy additions, this salad can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether served as a side or main dish, it’s sure to impress your family and friends during summer gatherings!

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BEST Asparagus & Summer Corn Salad

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Savor the essence of summer with this vibrant Asparagus & Summer Corn Salad. Featuring crisp asparagus, sweet corn, and juicy cherry tomatoes, this refreshing dish celebrates seasonal produce. Tossed in a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing and topped with crunchy almonds, it’s perfect for summer barbecues or a light dinner that delights the palate.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed and chopped
• 2 cups sweet corn (freshly shucked or frozen)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup toasted almonds (or your choice of nuts)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the asparagus by rinsing under cool water and snapping off the tough ends; chop into bite-sized pieces.
2. For the corn, boil fresh corn for 3 minutes or microwave thawed frozen corn until warm; let cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine chopped asparagus, corn, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
5. Sprinkle toasted almonds on top for added crunch before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Boiling/Tossing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 85mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: For added protein, consider incorporating grilled chicken or chickpeas into the salad. Substitute lime juice for lemon for a different citrus flavor or add avocado for creaminess.