Chilled Corn and Basil Delight
This vibrant Chilled Corn and Basil Delight salad is a summer staple that showcases the fresh, sweet taste of corn, perfectly complemented by the aromatic notes of basil. Tenderly boiled corn kernels are combined with crisp red onions, a tangy cider vinegar dressing, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, creating a refreshing dish that bursts with flavor in every bite. The key ingredient, freshly chopped basil, adds a fragrant twist that elevates this salad to a whole new level. Ideal for backyard barbecues or as a light side dish, this salad is sure to become a favorite, especially for fellow basil lovers like myself. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for an irresistible taste of summer in every mouthful.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
corn
5 ears (shucked)
red onion
1 small (diced)
cider vinegar
3 tablespoons
extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons
kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon
fresh ground pepper
1/2 teaspoon
fresh basil
1/2 cup (chiffonade (chopped into strips))
Instructions
1
Fill a large bowl with ice water and set it aside to prepare for cooling the corn.
2
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the shucked corn and boil for 3-5 minutes, until the corn is tender yet crisp, losing its starchiness.
3
Once cooked, carefully drain the corn and immediately plunge it into the ice water. This will halt the cooking process and retain its bright color.
4
After the corn has cooled completely, remove it from the ice water and cut the kernels off the cob.
5
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cut corn with the diced red onion, cider vinegar, olive oil, kosher salt, and fresh ground pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
6
Just before serving, gently fold in the fresh basil to preserve its flavor and color.
7
Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature for the best taste.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chilled Corn and Basil Delight?
It is a vibrant summer salad featuring sweet corn, fresh basil, and red onions with a tangy cider vinegar dressing.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
How much corn is needed for this dish?
You will need 5 ears of shucked corn.
How long should the corn be boiled?
Boil the corn for 3 to 5 minutes until it is tender yet crisp.
Why is the corn placed in ice water?
Placing the corn in ice water halts the cooking process and helps it retain its bright color.
What type of vinegar is used in the dressing?
The recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of cider vinegar.
Is the Chilled Corn and Basil Delight gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly.
Can this salad be served at room temperature?
Yes, it can be served either chilled or at room temperature.
When should the fresh basil be added?
Add the fresh basil just before serving to preserve its flavor and color.
How should the red onion be prepared?
The red onion should be finely diced.
How much olive oil is required?
The recipe uses 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
What kind of salt is recommended?
Kosher salt is recommended for this recipe.
Can I use frozen corn if fresh is unavailable?
While fresh corn is ideal for texture, frozen corn can be used as a substitute if fresh ears are unavailable.
How should the basil be cut?
The basil should be prepared in a chiffonade style, which means chopped into thin strips.
Is this a good side dish for a barbecue?
Yes, it is a perfect side dish for backyard barbecues and summer gatherings.
How much fresh basil is needed?
You will need 1/2 cup of fresh basil strips.
How do I prepare the corn before boiling?
The corn should be shucked before being added to the boiling water.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can combine the corn, onion, and dressing ahead of time, but wait to fold in the basil until serving.
What gives this salad its aromatic flavor?
The combination of fresh basil and cider vinegar provides its aromatic and tangy profile.
How long does the corn stay in the ice bath?
Keep the corn in the ice water until it has cooled completely.
Should the boiling water be seasoned?
Yes, the corn should be boiled in salted water.
How much black pepper is used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of fresh ground pepper.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 main ingredients in this recipe.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to fill a large bowl with ice water to prepare for cooling the corn.
Is this recipe considered a side dish?
Yes, it is categorized as a side dish salad.
What should the texture of the corn be?
The corn should be tender yet crisp to lose its starchiness.
Does this recipe contain dairy?
No, this recipe does not contain any dairy products.
How do I remove the corn from the cob?
After the corn has cooled in the ice bath, use a knife to carefully cut the kernels off the cob.
What type of oil is used for the dressing?
Extra virgin olive oil is used for this dressing.