Easy Summer Salad *(From Gourmet Magazine)
A vibrant, fresh summer salad combining sweet corn, crisp green beans, and juicy tomatoes, all tossed in a tangy vinaigrette—perfect for light, outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the ears of corn and run them down with a sharp knife to make niblets.
- Steam the green beans until their color turns vibrant, then wash with cool water and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the fresh tomatoes.
- Combine equal amounts of tomatoes, corn niblets, and green beans in a bowl.
- Toss the mixture with homemade vinaigrette and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a delightful twist, consider adding some crumbled feta or avocado to your salad. If fresh tomatoes are out of season, substitute with canned tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor profile. You can also use frozen green beans if fresh ones aren't available; just ensure they're thawed and drained before use.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect on its own or served alongside grilled chicken or fish. It pairs beautifully with Comeback Sauce for a creamy dip. For a heartier meal, consider adding quinoa or chickpeas for extra protein. It also makes a great side for summer barbecues and picnics.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may lose some crunchiness, but you can revive it slightly by tossing it with a bit more vinaigrette before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the vegetables will change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Summer Salad *(From Gourmet Magazine) contains roughly 131 calories, with 5g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (147% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 41g 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 use canned corn instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned corn if fresh corn is not available. Just drain and rinse it to reduce the sodium content before adding it to the salad. However, fresh corn adds a sweeter flavor and crunch that enhances the overall dish.
What can I substitute for homemade vinaigrette?
If you're short on time, store-bought vinaigrette can be a great alternative. Look for a light vinaigrette or a lemon-based dressing to complement the fresh flavors of the salad. Alternatively, a simple mix of olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper can work well.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad can be made in advance and stored in the fridge. Just keep the vinaigrette separate until serving to maintain the freshness of the vegetables. It's a great option for quick lunches throughout the week.
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).