In a world where vibrant flavors and nourishing ingredients take center stage, the Wholesome Spelt & Roasted Corn Salad with Fresh Cilantro emerges as a festivity of rustic charm and fresh vitality. This delightful dish brings together the nutty, chewy texture of ancient spelt grains with the smoky sweetness of fire-kissed corn, all brightened by the herbaceous burst of freshly chopped cilantro. more than just a salad, it’s a wholesome embrace of seasonal goodness that satisfies both the palate and the body-inviting food lovers to savor every bite as a harmony of health and indulgence. Whether served as a hearty side or a light main, this recipe promises a refreshing twist on traditional grain bowls, perfect for those seeking a nourishing and flavorful escape.
Wholesome Spelt & roasted Corn Salad with Fresh Cilantro
Wholesome spelt & roasted corn salad with fresh cilantro brings together the nutty depth of an ancient grain, the irresistible crunch of charred corn, and the vivid brightness of fresh herbs. This vibrant salad is not onyl a feast for the senses but a nutrient-packed celebration of wholesome ingredients that nourish your body and delight your palate. Inspired by rustic Mediterranean roots and modern health-conscious kitchens, it’s a dish that’s easy to craft yet compellingly sophisticated.
Prep and Cook Time
- Planning: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 20 minutes
- Total: 35 minutes
Yield
Serves 4 as a hearty side or light main dish.
Difficulty Level
Easy to Medium
Ingredients
- 1 cup spelt berries,rinsed
- 3 cups water or vegetable broth
- 2 ears fresh corn,husked
- 2 tablespoons olive oil,divided
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes,halved
- 1 small red bell pepper,finely diced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves,roughly chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 garlic clove,minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper,to taste
- Optional: 1 small jalapeño,finely minced (for a hint of heat)
Instructions
- Cook the spelt: In a medium pot,combine the rinsed spelt and water (or vegetable broth). Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or untill tender but still chewy. Drain any excess liquid and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the corn: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Brush the corn with remaining olive oil and season with smoked paprika and cumin. Roast the ears directly on the grill pan, turning frequently, until kernels are blistered and golden, about 8-10 minutes.
- Cut the kernels: Allow the roasted corn to cool slightly, then carefully slice off the kernels from the cob. You’ll be rewarded with a sweet crunch that elevates both texture and smoky flavor in the salad.
- Combine fresh ingredients: In a large mixing bowl,add the cooled spelt,roasted corn kernels,cherry tomatoes,diced bell pepper,and minced garlic.Add the chopped cilantro and optional jalapeño for a fresh, herbaceous lift and subtle heat balance.
- Dress the salad: Squeeze the lime juice directly over the salad and season generously with salt and pepper. Gently toss to combine all flavors, allowing the citrus to brighten and harmonize the dish.
- Adjust and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. For best enjoyment, serve at room temperature or slightly chilled.
Chef’s Notes: Tips for Success
- When cooking spelt, use vegetable broth instead of water to impart a richer flavor.
- Roasting corn: Keep a close eye while charring the corn to prevent burning. The kernels shoudl be golden and blistered for the perfect sweet crunch.
- Choose fresh cilantro with vibrant green stems and leaves – avoid any wilting or yellowing for maximum brightness.
- For a nut-free option, replace the bell pepper with crunchy cucumber chunks or shredded carrot to add extra texture.
- This salad can be made a day ahead.Store refrigerated in an airtight container and toss again before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This wholesome spelt & roasted corn salad with fresh cilantro can star on your table as a revitalizing side or a nourishing light meal. Serve in a rustic ceramic bowl to accentuate its natural beauty. Garnish with additional cilantro sprigs and a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or crumbled feta cheese (for a vegetarian boost) to add extra crunch and layers of flavor. Pair it with grilled vegetables or a simply seasoned roasted chicken for a complete dinner.
Nutritional Facts
| Nutrient | Per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 48 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
For more wholesome grain-based salad inspiration, check out our Quinoa Summer Salad recipe. To deepen your knowledge of ancient grains, visit Whole Grains Council.
Q&A
Q&A: Wholesome spelt & Roasted Corn Salad with Fresh Cilantro
Q1: What makes spelt a great choice for this salad?
A1: Spelt is an ancient grain known for its nutty flavor and chewy texture, which adds a delightful heartiness to the salad. It’s also packed with fiber and protein, making the dish satisfying and nutritious. Unlike common refined grains, spelt provides sustained energy and a subtle complexity that pairs beautifully with the sweet, smoky roasted corn.
Q2: How do you achieve perfectly roasted corn for the salad?
A2: For that irresistible roasted flavor, gently toss fresh corn kernels in a bit of olive oil and spread them on a hot skillet or baking sheet. Roast over medium-high heat until the kernels develop a light char, turning occasionally. This caramelization brings out the corn’s natural sweetness and adds a smoky depth that contrasts wonderfully with the fresh herbs.
Q3: What role does fresh cilantro play in this salad?
A3: Fresh cilantro brings a bright,citrusy freshness that lifts the entire dish. Its aromatic leaves provide a vivid green burst of flavor that harmonizes with the warm, earthy spelt and the sweet roasted corn. Cilantro also adds a visual vibrancy, making the salad inviting as well as delicious.
Q4: Can this salad work as a meal on its own, or is it better as a side?
A4: Thanks to the protein and fiber in spelt and the natural sugars in roasted corn, this salad can definitely stand alone as a light yet nourishing meal. For a heartier option, toss in some grilled vegetables, chickpeas, or creamy avocado for extra texture and richness. It’s versatile enough to complement any table, whether as a main or a colorful side.
Q5: What kind of dressing complements the flavors of this salad best?
A5: A simple citrus vinaigrette works wonders here, balancing the sweet corn and nutty spelt with a touch of tang. Lemon or lime juice mixed with good-quality olive oil, a hint of honey or maple syrup, and a pinch of salt and pepper capitalizes on the fresh, wholesome vibe of the dish without overpowering the natural ingredients.
Q6: Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
A6: Absolutely! The flavors actually deepen and meld when the salad rests for a few hours in the fridge. Just be sure to dress it lightly before storing and add any delicate herbs like cilantro right before serving to keep their bright color and flavor intact.
Q7: Are there any clever variations or additions you recommend?
A7: For a playful twist, try tossing in some toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped roasted red peppers for crunch and color contrast. A sprinkle of crumbled feta or a drizzle of tahini can also add creamy richness without overshadowing the fresh, wholesome base. Feel free to experiment with seasonal produce to keep the salad vibrant year-round.
This wholesome Spelt & Roasted Corn Salad with Fresh Cilantro is a celebration of textures and flavors-nutty, sweet, smoky, and herbaceous-all in one bowl. It’s a nourishing dish that’s as joyful to make as it is indeed to eat!
In conclusion
Bringing together the nutty warmth of spelt, the smoky sweetness of roasted corn, and the bright, herbaceous punch of fresh cilantro, this wholesome salad is more than just a side dish - it’s a celebration of simple, vibrant ingredients in perfect harmony. Whether served as a nourishing lunch or a colorful accompaniment to your favourite dinner, this recipe invites you to savor each bite with intention and joy.So next time you’re craving a meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing, let this spelt and roasted corn salad remind you how deliciously wholesome eating can be.
