Corn and quinoa are two grains that are the cornerstone of this summer salad, which is hearty and nutritionally balanced enough to be the main entrée. Grilled summer sweet corn only gets tastier with the addition of healthy quinoa, ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a bright lemony vinaigrette. This is a perfect do-ahead meal, courtesy of Whisk, that is sure to become one of your favorites.
Grilled Corn and Quinoa Summer Salad
Serves 8-10
Ingredients:
1 cup quinoa, uncooked
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 ears of fresh corn
1 pint cherry (or grape) tomatoes, quartered
8 large basil leaves, chiffonade
1 medium shallot, finely minced
4 ounces Cotija (or feta) cheese, crumbled
Dressing ingredients:
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1/4 olive oil
2 tablespoons stone-ground Dijon mustard
Zest of one lemon
Juice of one lemon, (about 3-4 tablespoons)
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Directions:
1. Prepare the quinoa by cooking in a small saucepan. Combine 1 cup of grain with 2 cups of salted water. Cover, bring to a boil. Turn off the heat, but keep the pan on the burner. Allow the grain to sit, until all the water is absorbed, about 15 – 20 minutes.
2. Prepare the corn by husking and removing the corn silk. Brush each ear with olive oil and grill over direct, medium heat turning every 2 minutes until all sides are grilled. (Alternatively, the corn may be steamed, boiled, or microwaved). Remove the kernels from the cob.
3. Combine the quinoa, corn kernels, tomatoes, basil, shallot, and crumbled cheese in a large bowl and toss.
4. Make the dressing by combining all dressing ingredients and whisking vigorously.
5. Pour the dressing over the quinoa and corn, and toss well to combine. Refrigerate, for at least an hour, to allow the salad to rest and the flavors to blend.
About Whisk
A welcoming community for home cooks and professional chefs alike, Whisk is stocked with thousands of unique, high-quality kitchenware and entertaining items. A variety of cooking classes are held every month, suitable for all levels of culinary expertise.
316 Colonades Way, Cary
(919) 322-2458
whiskcarolina.com
