Grilled Corn and Tomato Panzanella Salad

This Grilled Corn and Tomato Panzanella Salad is a refreshing and colorful dish that bursts with summer flavors. The sweet grilled corn, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy toasted bread cubes are perfectly balanced with a tangy vinaigrette, making this salad a delightful addition to any summer meal.

The salad is simple yet satisfying, ideal for those warm days when you want something light and refreshing. It’s not only a perfect side dish for BBQs or picnics but also a standalone meal that’s vegan and gluten-free. The fresh basil adds a herby aroma, and the grilled corn provides that irresistible smokiness. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner, this salad is sure to impress.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 4 ears of corn, husked

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cucumber, sliced

• 1 red onion, thinly sliced

• 2 cups stale bread, cut into cubes

• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Directions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the corn for about 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes until the kernels are charred and tender. Remove from the grill and let it cool.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and red onion.

3. Cut the grilled corn off the cob and add it to the bowl with the tomatoes, cucumber, and onion.

4. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the bread cubes and toast them until golden and crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

5. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.

6. Toss the grilled corn mixture with the toasted bread cubes and the vinaigrette. Add fresh basil and toss gently.

7. Serve immediately, garnishing with extra basil leaves.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Why Grilled Corn and Tomato Panzanella Salad is a Must-Try

Panzanella salad has its roots in Italy, where it was traditionally made using stale bread, tomatoes, and olive oil. The concept of a panzanella salad is simple—combining crusty, soaked bread with fresh vegetables to create a dish that is both hearty and refreshing. This modern take on the classic recipe incorporates the addition of grilled corn, which adds a smoky depth of flavor and a delightful sweetness that complements the tomatoes perfectly.

Grilled corn is an iconic summer ingredient, and it brings so much to this salad. The grill imparts a smoky aroma to the corn, making it more flavorful and tender. It also enhances the natural sweetness of the corn, creating a delightful contrast with the acidity of the tomatoes and the tanginess of the vinaigrette.

The salad is also an excellent way to incorporate fresh, in-season ingredients into your meals. As tomatoes reach their peak in the summer, this dish takes full advantage of their juiciness and sweetness. You can experiment with different varieties of tomatoes, from cherry to heirloom, each bringing its unique flavor and texture.

A Versatile Dish for Various Occasions

This Grilled Corn and Tomato Panzanella Salad is incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a side dish at your next BBQ or picnic, pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a light, balanced meal, or enjoy it on its own for a healthy, plant-based lunch or dinner. The salad is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone with dietary restrictions or preferences.

What makes this salad even more convenient is that it can be made ahead of time. The flavors only get better as they sit together, so it’s the perfect dish to prepare earlier in the day and let it marinate while you focus on other aspects of your meal. Just keep the toasted bread cubes separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid sogginess.

Additionally, the salad can easily be customized to suit your tastes. If you’re not a fan of raw onions, you can swap them for shallots or omit them entirely. You can also add other ingredients like roasted red peppers, olives, or feta cheese for a twist on the traditional recipe.

The Health Benefits of Grilled Corn and Tomato Panzanella Salad

Not only is this dish delicious, but it also packs a variety of health benefits. Grilled corn is a good source of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps to keep you feeling full longer. It also provides essential nutrients like vitamin B, which supports metabolism, and antioxidants that help protect your cells from oxidative stress.

Tomatoes, another star ingredient in this salad, are loaded with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and folate. They are also a rich source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers.

Fresh basil, often used as a garnish in this dish, is not just there for its flavor and visual appeal. Basil is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help support the immune system and reduce inflammation in the body. The addition of olive oil in the dressing provides healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health, making this salad not only tasty but also nourishing.

How to Make the Most of Your Grilled Corn and Tomato Panzanella Salad

While the Grilled Corn and Tomato Panzanella Salad is delightful as it is, there are plenty of ways you can modify and elevate the dish to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas to make this salad even more exciting:

1. Add Protein: If you’re looking to turn this salad into a more filling meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for an added protein boost. You can also add chickpeas or black beans for a plant-based option.

2. Spice it Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, try adding some diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the dressing. The heat will balance out the sweetness of the corn and tomatoes and give the salad a kick.

3. Try Different Bread: While traditional panzanella uses rustic Italian bread, you can experiment with other types of bread. Try using sourdough, a baguette, or even gluten-free bread for a unique twist. You could even add a garlic-infused olive oil to the bread cubes for extra flavor.

4. Make it a Wrap: For a fun variation, try wrapping the salad in a large lettuce leaf or a whole wheat tortilla. This turns it into a light, handheld meal that’s perfect for lunch on the go.

5. Make a Bigger Batch: If you’re feeding a crowd, simply double or triple the ingredients. This salad can easily be made in large quantities, and its versatility means you can adapt it to suit the number of people you’re serving.

Perfect Pairings for Grilled Corn and Tomato Panzanella Salad

This salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Its fresh, vibrant flavors make it the ideal accompaniment to grilled meats, seafood, and other summer staples. Here are a few ideas for perfect pairings:

• Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavor of grilled chicken complements the grilled corn in the salad, making for a delicious and satisfying meal.

• Grilled Shrimp: The light, slightly sweet taste of grilled shrimp pairs beautifully with the fresh, tangy salad.

• Pasta: Serve this salad alongside a simple pasta dish, such as a classic spaghetti with olive oil and garlic, to create a well-rounded meal.

• Grilled Vegetables: Pair the salad with other grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a complete, plant-based meal.

• Cheese: A small amount of crumbled feta or goat cheese can add a creamy, tangy element to the salad that complements the freshness of the tomatoes and corn.

Conclusion

The Grilled Corn and Tomato Panzanella Salad is a flavorful, refreshing, and versatile dish that brings together the best of summer ingredients. With its smoky grilled corn, sweet tomatoes, and crunchy bread cubes, it’s a salad that is both satisfying and healthy. Whether served as a side dish, a light meal, or a BBQ accompaniment, this salad will undoubtedly become a favorite in your kitchen. The best part? It’s easy to make, customizable, and packed with vibrant flavors that will brighten up any occasion.

Incorporating this salad into your summer menu not only enhances your meals but also supports a healthy, balanced diet. From the antioxidants in tomatoes and basil to the fiber in corn, every bite is filled with nutrients. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with variations, this dish will always be a hit, bringing together friends and family around the table to enjoy delicious, fresh food.