Being a Jersey girl, this salad showcases two of my favorite local ingredients, corn and tomatoes. This salad is best at the peak of summer when corn is most sweet, fresh, and juicy. Its light, crisp flavor makes a delicious side dish when served with grilled meats, or it can also stand alone as a light lunch.
Here's a great way to use summer's abundant squashes. Toasted pine nuts and briny kalamata olives make this salad a standout. Prep and Cook Time: about 1 1/4 hours. Notes: Ingredients can be prepped and pasta cooked a day ahead of time and chilled (add 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil to the cooked pasta). Toss everything together just before serving.
Next time you have the grill warmed up, throw on some extra corn on the cob to make this easy summer side dish. It's a great complement to any outdoor party.
"I’ve been bringing this refreshing salad to potlucks recently, and everyone raves about it. A sprinkle of brown sugar and nuts is a special finishing touch," says Marge Elling, Jenison, Michigan.