Celebrate the flavors of summer with our Tomato, Corn & Basil Spaghetti Salad. This delightful dish combines the sweetness of ripe tomatoes, the crunch of fresh corn, and the fragrant essence of basil, all tossed with spaghetti in a light vinaigrette.
It’s a refreshing and colorful salad that’s perfect for warm days or as a side dish at any gathering. In this article, we’ll guide you through crafting this delicious and vibrant spaghetti salad that’s sure to brighten your plate. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the Spaghetti Salad
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) of spaghetti
- 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups of fresh corn kernels (from about 2 ears of corn)
- 1/2 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup of red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese (optional, omit for a vegan version)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Vinaigrette
- 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Steps to Make
Step 1
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2
- While the spaghetti is cooking, prepare the fresh corn kernels. You can use a knife to carefully cut the kernels from the corn cobs.
Step 3
- In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to create the vinaigrette. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 4
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and drained spaghetti, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh corn kernels, chopped fresh basil, and finely chopped red onion.
- Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad ingredients.
- Gently toss everything together until the spaghetti and vegetables are well coated with the vinaigrette.
Step 5
- If desired, garnish your Tomato, Corn & Basil Spaghetti Salad with crumbled feta cheese for a creamy and tangy touch.
- Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or a light summer meal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, our Tomato, Corn & Basil Spaghetti Salad is a celebration of summer’s bounty with its fresh and vibrant flavors. It’s a perfect choice for a light and refreshing addition to your table, whether you’re enjoying it on a warm day or sharing it at a gathering with friends and family.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this salad?
Yes, you can use your preferred pasta shape or variety if you like. Bowtie pasta or penne would work well.
Can I make this salad in advance?
This salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to add the basil just before serving to maintain its freshness.
Is there a way to make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Certainly! You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make this salad a more substantial meal.
Can I use canned or frozen corn instead of fresh corn?
While fresh corn adds a delightful crunch and sweetness, you can use canned or frozen corn if it’s not in season. Just be sure to drain and thaw (if frozen) before adding to the salad.
