Fresh & Flavorful Tomato Salad with Corn, Summer Squash & Roasted Veggies: A Perfect Summer Dish

This Tomato Salad with Corn, Summer Squash & Roasted Veggies is the perfect addition to any summer meal. It combines the freshest seasonal vegetables with a variety of textures, flavors, and vibrant colors. The tomatoes provide a juicy, refreshing base, while the sweet corn adds a natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the earthy roasted summer squash. The addition of roasted vegetables gives the salad a smoky depth, and the light vinaigrette brings everything together into a delightful, refreshing dish.

Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, this salad not only tastes amazing but is also incredibly nutritious. Tomatoes are a great source of vitamin C and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Corn provides fiber, while summer squash is rich in vitamins A and C, promoting healthy skin and immunity. The entire dish is low in calories, making it a perfect option for those looking for a healthy, light meal.

Servings and Prep Time

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy

This salad comes together in just about 35 minutes, making it perfect for a quick side dish or a light lunch.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 cup fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears of corn)
• 1 medium summer squash, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for roasting squash)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

For the Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional for sweetness)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Optional Garnish:

• Crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
• Toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds

How to Make Tomato Salad with Corn, Summer Squash & Roasted Veggies

Step 1: Roast the Summer Squash

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the summer squash into rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference. Toss the squash slices in a tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Spread the squash in an even layer on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and tender, flipping halfway through. Once done, remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

While the squash is roasting, prepare the corn. If you’re using fresh corn on the cob, peel back the husks and remove the silk. Boil or grill the corn for 5-7 minutes until it’s tender. Once cooked, cut the kernels off the cob using a sharp knife. If you’re using frozen corn, simply thaw and drain it before adding it to the salad.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, roasted summer squash, fresh corn kernels, and thinly sliced red onion. Toss the ingredients together to mix them evenly. Add the freshly chopped basil to the salad for a burst of fresh flavor.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Continue whisking until the dressing is well emulsified.

Step 5: Dress the Salad

Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine, making sure all the ingredients are coated in the dressing. Garnish with crumbled feta or goat cheese for added creaminess, and sprinkle some toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds on top for extra crunch.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve this refreshing tomato salad chilled or at room temperature. It’s perfect as a side dish to grilled meats or fish, or even as a standalone dish for a light, healthy meal. Enjoy the combination of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors in every bite!

Tips for Perfect Tomato Salad with Corn, Summer Squash & Roasted Veggies

• Choose Fresh, Ripe Tomatoes: The key to a great tomato salad is using the ripest, juiciest tomatoes you can find. Heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes are perfect for this dish, as they offer the best flavor and texture. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, you can use canned tomatoes in a pinch, but fresh is always preferred.

• Roast the Vegetables for Extra Flavor: Roasting the summer squash helps to caramelize its natural sugars, giving it a smoky depth that pairs beautifully with the sweet corn and tangy dressing. Don’t skip this step, as it really elevates the flavor of the dish.

• Customize the Dressing: This mustard-based vinaigrette is light and tangy, but feel free to adjust the acidity by adding more vinegar or lemon juice if you prefer a more pronounced tang. If you like sweeter dressings, you can increase the amount of honey or even use maple syrup for a different flavor profile.

• Add Protein for a Full Meal: To turn this salad into a main dish, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas. This will add protein and make the salad more filling, perfect for a complete meal.

• You can personalize this salad by adding or omitting ingredients based on your preferences. Feel free to try adding roasted bell peppers, olives, or even avocado for an extra creamy texture!

Nutritional Benefits of Tomato Salad with Corn, Summer Squash & Roasted Veggies

This salad is loaded with nutrients that are good for your body. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help lower the risk of certain cancers. Corn is a great source of fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer. Summer squash is low in calories but packed with vitamins A and C, essential for maintaining healthy skin and boosting your immune system. The olive oil in the dressing provides heart-healthy fats, while fresh basil adds anti-inflammatory benefits.

By combining all these wholesome ingredients into one refreshing salad, you’re not only indulging in a flavorful dish but also fueling your body with vital nutrients.

Why You’ll Love This Tomato Salad

This Tomato Salad with Corn, Summer Squash & Roasted Veggies is a delightful mix of textures and flavors that will make your taste buds dance. The juicy tomatoes, sweet corn, and smoky roasted squash create the perfect harmony of flavors, while the mustard vinaigrette adds a tangy kick that ties everything together. It’s an ideal dish to serve at your next barbecue, picnic, or even as a light lunch.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a refreshing meal for hot summer days, this salad is guaranteed to please. With its vibrant colors and nutrient-packed ingredients, it’s a dish that’s not only delicious but also good for you.

Give this recipe a try and experience the taste of summer in every bite!