Does that picture just not scream summer? And if you're looking to save some $$ so you can purchase some flip-flops or those cute shorts you've been eyeing (or whatever your current obsession may be) cook and eat seasonally! Corn is a bit expensive here in Korea, but right before I left, it was 4 for $1 in Austin (*sigh* it was 6 for $1 not too long before). So buy as much as you can when it's practically free and freeze the rest for later. If you don't know how to do so, Google it! 😉
Looking at these photos makes me miss my CSA box, not to mention actually cooking in my kitchen period. My time spent in a kitchen since I arrived in Korea = zero. Don't get me wrong. The food here is A-MAZING! But for a gal who normally eats out only 1-3 times a week, I'm itching for some home-cooked meals. My dad, on the other hand, has a different agenda - feed his little girl something different for every meal...
I'm slowly resembling Jigglypuff and I don't like it!
Anyway, in my last CSA box were these fun summer squash. I'd never had pattypan squash (a.k.a "flying saucer") before, and despite the uniquely distinct appearance, the flavor did not deviate much from the zucchinis I'm used to. As for the corn, why are you so sweet? You are truly my weakness during this time of year. You...and ice cream.
Since I made pesto last time, I wanted to make something different with basil and good ol' Martha Stewart came to the rescue - homemade basil oil. I was surprised by the ease of the instructions. I'm thinking cilantro and rosemary oil are possibilities for the future.
Roasted tomatoes = another weakness (yes, I have many). However, this time, I simply threw them into the pot along with the corn and zucchini for a no-fuss, one pot meal. At the very end, I tossed everything with a generous amount of basil oil and topped with cheese for that extra punch of flavor. I don't think I've seen goat or feta cheese here in Korea..I am deprived, indeed.
Ingredients
- 1 cup basil
- ¼ cup + 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic ~3 cloves
- 3 ¼ cups corn 4-5 ears
- ½ pound cherry tomatoes halved (1 ½ cups)
- 3 cups diced zucchini
- ¾ cup diced red onion
- 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
- Goat cheese or feta cheese optional
- Avocado optional
Instructions
- Bring pot of water to boil. Add basil; cook 10 seconds. Transfer to bowl of ice water, drain, and squeeze dry. Puree basil, ¼ cup oil, and ½ teaspoon salt in blender until smooth.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over med-high heat. Add onion and garlic, and cook until fragrant and softened (about 30 seconds). Add corn, zucchini, and remaining salt. Cook, stirring frequently, until they start to caramelize slightly, about 8-10 minutes. If too much excess liquid develops, remove from skillet.
- Add tomatoes and vinegar; cook until tomatoes start to collapse, about 6-8 minutes.
- Drizzle basil oil on vegetables, and stir. Top with goat cheese or avocado if desired. Serve immediately.
Sarah Ramberg says
SO EXCITED to find this recipe (coming from Treasure Box Tuesday). Looks fantastic and I can't wait to try it.
Min says
Hi Sarah! It's nice to "meet" you! Thank you so much for stopping by. Hope you enjoy this recipe!
Trisha says
Yum, this looks so fresh and summery! And I could use up lots of fresh basil from my garden!! Savor all that good eatin' in Korea with your family! There's plenty of time for healthy eating when you get home. 🙂 I know what you mean about missing the kitchen though!
Jeanette | Jeanette's Healthy Living says
Now that's summer in one meal! Love how naturally vibrant the colors and flavors sound!
Maggie says
I love the combination of the salad, and I will definitely add some avocado. The sauce looks simple and delicious. I still have some fancy truffle infused balsamic vinegar glaze. I will add them and see how it goes!
Totally feel the same way when I come back from a travel by the way. Have a great weekend and happy cooking!
Monet says
Oh my goodness! How absolutely gorgeous! I want a big scoop of this right now. We were just talking about how we wanted to do something different with corn (besides just eat it on the cob). Clearly, I've found the winning recipe! Thank you for posting! I'm pinning and sharing!
Maura @ My Healthy 'Ohana says
I just bought corn and basil yesterday and bookmarked this to make tomorrow as a side for our Fourth of July BBQ! Love the idea of making an herb oil...a cilantro oil would be so yummy for tacos or on top of salads! I'm hoping to replant some of my herbs and veggies in the next month. Malia has been begging for a flower garden, so that will be our project this weekend 🙂 Hope you are having fabulous trip!!
Kenan | Kitchen 1204 says
I've been getting lots of pattypan squash in my CSA bags. It's just so cute! We haven't had much corn at the markets in Atlanta yet, but I will definitely be trying this as soon as we do 🙂
Joanne says
A life without corn would be a sad life indeed!! I love this simple stir fry with it. And that basil oil is calling my name!
Kari @ bite-sized thoughts says
It screams summer, and it also screams perfect use for some of my current vegetables 🙂 I don't have corn, but love anything with it so would be very happy to go and get some just for this!
Ashley | Spoonful of Flavor says
Haha, from the looks of the last video, you are definitely not anywhere close to resembling Jigglypuff! But I completely understand about eating out. As much as I love trying new things, I can only eat out so much. This salad looks exactly like summer and definitely something I need to add to the dinner table soon. I hope you are enjoying your trip, Min!
Consuelo - Honey & Figs says
Roasted tomatoes are one of my biggest weaknesses lately as well! I think I'm having them for lunch tomorrow, oh yum! This salad sounds super delicious and summery, and that basil oil is such a wonderful idea! Also, these shots are gorgeous!
I hope you're enjoying your time in Korea 😉