If you’re craving a vibrant, fresh salad that bursts with flavor and color, you’re going to love this Fresh Corn and Tomato Caprese Salad Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on the classic Caprese, incorporating the natural sweetness of fresh corn that beautifully complements juicy cherry tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. This salad combines crunchy, silky, and tangy elements in every bite, making it the perfect no-fuss dish for warm afternoons or casual get-togethers. Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a seasoned salad lover, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your culinary rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient shines on its own while coming together for a harmonious blend of tastes and textures. Freshness is key here, so choosing ripe tomatoes, sweet corn, and quality mozzarella will make all the difference.
- Fresh corn kernels: Use freshly cut kernels for sweetness and a satisfying crunch, or opt for cooked corn if you prefer them softer.
- Cherry tomatoes, halved: Their juicy burst adds color and acidity that brightens every bite.
- Fresh mozzarella balls, halved: Creamy and mild, these little pearls provide the perfect milky contrast.
- Fresh basil leaves, torn or thinly sliced: Aromatic and herbaceous, basil ties the dish together beautifully.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and a silky finish to coat the ingredients evenly.
- Balsamic glaze: Sweet and tangy, it balances the salad with its syrupy depth.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to boost and round out the flavors.
How to Make Fresh Corn and Tomato Caprese Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Fresh Ingredients
Start by cutting the kernels off two fresh ears of corn, or use about one and a half cups of cooked corn if you prefer. Slice your cherry tomatoes in half and halve the fresh mozzarella balls to prepare for a delightful medley of textures and flavors.
Step 2: Combine and Toss
In a large bowl, gently mix together the fresh corn kernels, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella. Add torn or thinly sliced basil leaves, pour in the extra virgin olive oil, and dribble in the balsamic glaze. Toss everything with care to coat each ingredient without squishing the mozzarella balls, ensuring a perfect balance in every forkful.
Step 3: Season and Let the Flavors Marry
Season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Let the salad sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes. This little waiting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, elevating the fresh ingredients into an utterly delicious combination.
Step 4: Final Drizzle and Serve
Just before serving, if you want to amp up the tangy sweetness, give your salad an extra drizzle of balsamic glaze. This finishing touch adds a glossy shine and a punch of flavor that will wow your guests.
How to Serve Fresh Corn and Tomato Caprese Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For a pretty presentation and added zing, feel free to scatter a few whole basil leaves on top or sprinkle some toasted pine nuts for crunch. A light dusting of cracked black pepper can add a hint of spice that complements the salad’s sweet and savory notes.
Side Dishes
This salad shines as a sidekick to grilled chicken, fish, or even crusty artisan bread. Its fresh, summer vibe makes it ideal alongside barbecues or as part of a cozy picnic spread. Pairing it with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling lemonade is pure magic.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Serve this salad in individual mason jars for portable parties or arrange it beautifully on a rustic wooden board with slices of toasted ciabatta. Layer it in a clear trifle bowl for a stunning visual showcasing all those gorgeous colors and textures.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can refrigerate any leftover Fresh Corn and Tomato Caprese Salad Recipe in an airtight container for up to one day. Keep it chilled, but note that it’s best enjoyed fresh since the mozzarella texture can become less appealing, and the salad may release some liquid over time.
Freezing
This salad does not freeze well due to the freshness of the ingredients, especially the tomatoes and mozzarella. To preserve its wonderful texture and flavor, it’s best to enjoy it within the day it’s made.
Reheating
No reheating is needed for this recipe since it’s designed to be served fresh and cool, highlighting the crisp sweet corn and juicy tomatoes. Bringing it back to room temperature before eating will enhance the flavors even more.
FAQs
Can I use frozen corn for this salad?
Yes, you can use thawed frozen corn in a pinch, but fresh corn will give the best sweetness and texture. If using frozen, make sure to drain any excess water to avoid a soggy salad.
What cheese can I substitute if I don’t have fresh mozzarella?
If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, try using burrata or even small cubes of mild feta for a different but delicious creamy touch. Just be aware that the flavor profile will shift slightly.
How long can I let the salad sit before serving?
Allowing the salad to sit for 10 to 15 minutes at room temperature lets the flavors develop nicely. Beyond that, the fresh textures might soften, so it’s best served within that window for peak enjoyment.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
This recipe as is includes fresh mozzarella, which is dairy. To make it vegan, you can substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative or omit the cheese entirely, focusing on the vibrant veggies and basil.
Can I add other vegetables or herbs?
Absolutely! Fresh diced cucumbers, thinly sliced red onions, or even some chopped fresh mint can add new layers of flavor and freshness. Just be sure to balance any additions so the salad remains bright and harmonious.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Fresh Corn and Tomato Caprese Salad Recipe that makes it perfect for sharing with friends and family. It’s vibrant, easy to make, and celebrates the simple joys of fresh, wholesome ingredients. Give yourself the gift of this beautiful salad and watch it instantly brighten any meal or occasion.
Print
Fresh Corn and Tomato Caprese Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and vibrant summer salad combining sweet corn kernels, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy fresh mozzarella, enhanced with fragrant basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a perfect Italian-American inspired Caprese twist.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 ears fresh corn, kernels cut off the cob (or 1½ cups cooked corn)
- 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), halved
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn or thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (plus more for drizzling)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls to form the base of the salad.
- Add Basil and Dressing: Add the fresh basil leaves, extra virgin olive oil, and balsamic glaze to the bowl.
- Toss Salad: Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is well mixed and evenly coated with the dressing.
- Season: Season the salad with salt and black pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Let Flavors Develop: Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes so the flavors can meld and develop.
- Serve with Extra Drizzle: Just before serving, drizzle additional balsamic glaze on top if desired for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Grilled or charred corn adds a smoky depth of flavor to this salad.
- You can also use heirloom tomatoes or sliced large mozzarella if preferred.
- Best served fresh, but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day.
