When summer rolls in, so does the craving for something light, fresh, and bursting with flavor. This delicious tasting summer salad checks all the boxes. There’s nothing quite like a perfectly tossed summer salad that complements that special time of year when we enjoy the outside with family and friends. But what’s the secret to transforming an ordinary bowl of greens into something extraordinary?
The answer is simpler than you think: a high-quality olive oil.
And not just any olive oil—I’m talking about Bonafurtuna’s organic Italian extra virgin olive oil. This beautifully crafted oil comes straight from Italy, packed with rich, peppery notes, subtle fruitiness, and that signature golden hue that tells you you’re working with the real deal. Let me show you how I use this olive oil to take my summer salad to the next level with the addition of fresh grilled corn.
Summer Corn, Tomato and Avocado Salad
Ingredients
- 6 Tbsp Bona Furtuna Olive Oil every day olive oil
- 1 Juice of one lemon
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 Tbsp Cilantro
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- 4 Ears Corn
- 2 Avocados
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small onion diced
- 3/4 cup Feta cheese
- 1 cup cucumber diced
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium heat. Remove husks from four ears of corn, and rub with olive oil, salt and pepper and place directly on grill. Grill for 10 to 15 minutes until grill marks are prominent. Let cool and slice kernals off and place into a large salad bowl. NOTE: You can substitute for canned corn or frozen corn. However nothing like the freshness of fresh grilled corn.
- Create your dressing. Add the olive olive, lemon juice, garlic, cilantro, salt and pepper to a jar with lid and shake or place in a bowl, and mix well.
- Dice avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta and cucumber. Toss all into the large bowl with corn and add dressing. Enjoy the best tasting summer salad!
Make It Your Own: Salad Variations & Substitutions
This crisp salad is beautiful in its simplicity, but don’t be afraid to switch things up based on what you have or what you’re craving. Here are a few ideas:
Swap the Corn
- Use frozen or canned corn if fresh isn’t available.
- Grill the corn for added smokiness.
- Sub in roasted sweet potato or cooked quinoa for healthy complex carbs.
Add Protein
- Toss in grilled shrimp, chicken, or salmon to make it a full meal.
- Add a can of chickpeas or white beans for a vegetarian protein boost.
Try a Cheese Alternative
- Swap feta for goat cheese, cotija, or even a dairy-free cheese if needed.
- Or leave it out entirely for a vegan option.
Play with Herbs
- Don’t love cilantro? Use fresh basil, dill, or parsley instead.
Change Up the Acid
- Try lime juice instead of lemon for a different citrus vibe.
- Add a splash of red wine vinegar for a bolder tang.
Why the Olive Oil Matters
You can have the freshest produce, the perfect balance of acid and salt—but if your olive oil is bland, processed, or lacking depth, your salad will fall flat. High-quality extra virgin olive oil like Bonafurtuna’s isn’t just a dressing; it’s a flavor enhancer. It elevates everything it touches with earthy, herbal undertones and a richness that lingers.
Bonafurtuna is cold-pressed, organic, and made in small batches from heritage Sicilian olive trees. You can literally taste the craftsmanship.
The Health Benefits of High-Quality Olive Oil
We already know it tastes amazing, but what truly sets olive oil apart—especially organic extra virgin olive oil—is how incredibly good it is for your body. Here’s why you should be drizzling it generously and often:
1. Supports Heart Health
Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which helps reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol levels—two key factors in reducing your risk of heart disease.
2. Boosts Brain Function
The polyphenols and antioxidants found in extra virgin olive oil may help protect the brain from oxidative stress, supporting memory and cognitive function over time.
3. Stabilizes Blood Sugar
Studies show that olive oil can improve insulin sensitivity and help reduce blood sugar spikes, making it an ideal fat for people managing prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, or simply aiming for better metabolic health.
4. Reduces Inflammation
Olive oil contains powerful antioxidants, including oleocanthal, which has similar anti-inflammatory properties to ibuprofen—making it nature’s gentle remedy against chronic inflammation.
5. Packed with Antioxidants
Unlike refined oils, high-quality extra virgin olive oil retains antioxidants like vitamin E and polyphenols, which help fight free radical damage and support cellular health.
6. Supports Healthy Weight Management
Despite being calorie-dense, olive oil helps with satiety and fat metabolism. When used in moderation as part of a clean, whole-food diet, it may even support weight loss or weight maintenance.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
Planning ahead? You’re in luck.
- To prep in advance, chop all the vegetables and store them separately. Wait to dice the avocado and add the dressing until just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. While the avocado might brown slightly, the flavor will still be delicious.
Final Thoughts
In summary, this summer salad is colorful, nourishing, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re tossing it together for a backyard gathering, prepping a light lunch, or needing a dish to impress at your next BBQ, it’s guaranteed to deliver on flavor.
Don’t forget: the secret to bringing it all together is a really good olive oil. Bona Furtuna’s Everyday Olive Oil adds that extra layer of richness that makes this simple salad feel special.
Give it a try, and let me know how you make it your own
