Corn-Stuffed Tomato Salad
A vibrant and refreshing salad featuring juicy cherry tomatoes filled with a colorful corn mixture, complemented by creamy dressing and fresh herbs. Perfect for summer gatherings or light lunches, it combines sweet corn, cheese, and crisp vegetables for a delightful burst of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place tomatoes, stem end down, on a cutting board.
- Cut each into 4 to 6 wedges, cutting to but not through the stem end. Spread wedges apart slightly.
- Sprinkle with salt.
- Cover and chill.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine dressing, parsley, pepper, and red pepper.
- In another bowl, combine corn, cheese, bell pepper, cucumber, and onion.
- Add dressing mixture; toss gently to coat.
- Cover; chill.
- Serve tomatoes filled with the corn mixture over lettuce on individual plates.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fresh twist, consider using different cheese varieties like feta or goat cheese instead of Monterey Jack. If you prefer a lighter dressing, a yogurt-based dressing can be a great substitute. Ensure the tomatoes are firm to hold the filling well, and feel free to add herbs like basil for extra flavor. This salad is a great way to use up leftover corn from summer barbecues.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad as a refreshing appetizer or side dish. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian meal. Consider complementing it with crusty bread or alongside a bowl of Spinach And Artichoke Dip for a delightful spread. It's perfect for a summer gathering or picnic.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The filling can be kept separately from the tomatoes to prevent them from becoming soggy. For best results, enjoy the salad cold, and avoid reheating as the tomatoes may lose their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Corn-Stuffed Tomato Salad contains roughly 133 calories, with 5g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (134% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. However, it's best to fill the tomatoes just before serving to maintain their texture and prevent sogginess.
What type of corn works best for this recipe?
Fresh, sweet corn is ideal for the best flavor, but you can also use frozen corn that has been thawed and drained. Canned corn is a convenient option as well, but be sure to rinse it to reduce excess sodium.
Can I customize the vegetables in this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite vegetables like diced zucchini, shredded carrots, or even olives for a different flavor profile. The versatility of this recipe allows for a variety of seasonal ingredients.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).