Farmstead Tomato and Heirloom Corn Salad with Buttermilk Dressing

By Lauren Mitchell, Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-05 · Updated 2026-05-05

A vibrant salad showcasing local heirloom tomatoes and sweet corn, tossed in a tangy buttermilk dressing infused with fresh herbs. This southern-inspired salads (vegetarian) ready in about 15 minutes pairs heirloom tomatoes, diced, fresh corn kernels, red onion, thinly sliced into a side that holds its own next to almost any main — bright, balanced, and quick enough to slot into a weeknight plate. Each serving lands at about 120 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly next to roasted proteins, grain bowls, or weeknight mains. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heirloom tomatoes, diced
• 1 cup (from 2 ears) fresh corn kernels
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• 1/4 cup buttermilk
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp honey
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups diced heirloom tomatoes, 1 cup fresh corn kernels cut from 2 ears, and 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion.
2. Step 2: In a separate small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup buttermilk, 2 tbsp mayonnaise, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp honey, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until smooth and creamy.
3. Step 3: Pour the buttermilk dressing over the tomato and corn mixture, tossing gently to coat everything evenly.
4. Step 4: Fold in 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil and 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives for a bright herbal note.
5. Step 5: Refrigerate the salad for 15 minutes to let flavors meld, then serve chilled as a refreshing side dish.