If you’re looking for a refreshing and nutritious salad recipe that is both easy to make and bursting with flavor, look no further than the best easy corn and arugula salad recipe from Whole Foods. This simple yet delicious dish combines the sweetness of corn with the peppery taste of arugula, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
To make this salad, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups of fresh or frozen corn kernels
– 4 cups of arugula
– 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– ½ cup of crumbled feta cheese
– ¼ cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Start by cooking the corn kernels in a pan over medium heat until they become slightly charred and golden. Let them cool. In a large bowl, combine the arugula, cherry tomatoes, corn, feta cheese, and basil leaves.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar until well combined. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
Serve the corn and arugula salad immediately and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite. This salad is perfect as a light lunch or as a side dish for grilled meats or seafood.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?
Yes, you can use canned corn in this recipe. Just make sure to drain and rinse it before adding it to the salad.
2. Can I substitute arugula with another leafy green?
Yes, you can substitute arugula with spinach or mixed greens if you prefer.
3. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add sliced cucumbers, diced bell peppers, or even avocado for extra texture and flavor.
4. Can I omit the feta cheese?
Yes, if you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, you can omit the feta cheese or substitute it with dairy-free cheese.
5. How long can I store this salad?
It’s best to consume the salad immediately after preparing it. However, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
6. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh.
7. Can I use a different dressing for this salad?
Certainly! You can use any dressing of your choice, such as a lemon vinaigrette or a honey mustard dressing.
8. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil leaves provide a more vibrant flavor, but if you don’t have them on hand, you can substitute with dried basil. Just use half the amount.
9. Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu would make great additions to this salad.
10. Can I serve this salad warm?
Yes, you can serve the corn and arugula salad warm if you prefer. Just mix the warm corn with the other ingredients and serve immediately.
11. Can I make this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to check the labels of any packaged ingredients you use to ensure they are gluten-free as well.