Avocado Corn Salad

If you’re looking for a refreshing and vibrant dish that truly captures the essence of summer, this Avocado Corn Salad is just what you need! Picture biting into creamy avocado, sweet grilled corn, and juicy cherry tomatoes all tossed together in a zesty dressing. It’s such a crowd-pleaser that it’s perfect for any occasion—be it busy weeknights, family picnics, or even backyard barbecues. This salad brings a burst of flavor to your plate and is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh produce.

What makes this recipe extra special is how easy it is to whip up. In just about 28 minutes, you can create a colorful side dish that everyone will love. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that make you feel good about what you’re eating!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can prepare this Avocado Corn Salad in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy days.
• Family-Friendly: With its delightful flavors and vibrant colors, this salad appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This salad tastes even better after sitting for a bit, so feel free to make it ahead of time for gatherings or meal prep.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad not only satisfies your taste buds but nourishes your body as well.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Avocado Corn Salad uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Each ingredient plays a special role in creating a deliciously harmonious blend of flavors.

For the Salad

• 1 lb cherry tomatoes (halved or quartered)
• 3 ears of corn (cooked, shucked and cut off the cob)
• 2 avocados (peeled, pitted and sliced)
• 1/2 red onion (medium) (thinly sliced)
• 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped – about 1/2 small bunch)

For the Dressing

• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 to 3 Tbsp lime juice (from 1 to 2 limes)
• 2 garlic cloves (pressed or finely minced)
• 1 tsp sea salt (or 3/4 tsp table salt)
• 1/8 tsp black pepper

Variations

This Avocado Corn Salad is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add Protein: Toss in some black beans or chickpeas for added protein and heartiness.
• Spice it Up: Add diced jalapeños if you want some heat—just adjust based on your spice tolerance!
• Change the Herbs: Swap out cilantro for parsley or basil for a different flavor profile.
• Include Other Veggies: Throw in diced bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.

How to Make Avocado Corn Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, sliced avocado, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro. Press in the garlic cloves. This step sets up the vibrant base of our salad, ensuring each ingredient shines through.

Step 2: Dress It Up

Drizzle the top with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and add 2 to 3 tablespoons of lime juice—adjusting it based on your taste preference. Sprinkle in the sea salt and black pepper. This dressing brings everything together by adding depth and flavor that will make your taste buds dance!

Step 3: Toss Gently

Gently toss the salad just until combined. Be careful not to mash the avocado; we want those lovely creamy pieces intact! Serving this salad immediately allows everyone to enjoy its freshness at its peak.

Enjoy making this delicious Avocado Corn Salad! It’s bound to become one of your go-to recipes!

Pro Tips for Making Avocado Corn Salad

Making the perfect Avocado Corn Salad is simple, and these tips will help you achieve an even more flavorful and delicious dish!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for freshly picked corn and ripe avocados, as they will enhance the salad’s flavor and texture, making it taste that much better.
• Adjust Lime Juice to Taste: Start with 2 tablespoons of lime juice and gradually add more. This allows you to find that perfect balance of tanginess that suits your palate.
• Toss Gently: When mixing the salad, be gentle. Over-mixing can mush the avocados and affect the overall presentation of your salad.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a more harmonious taste experience.
• Experiment with Herbs: While cilantro adds a fresh flavor, feel free to mix in other herbs like parsley or basil for a unique twist that suits your personal taste.

How to Serve Avocado Corn Salad

This vibrant Avocado Corn Salad is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it the perfect addition to any meal or gathering. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish:

Garnishes

• Feta Cheese Crumbles: Adding crumbled feta cheese on top provides a salty contrast that beautifully complements the creamy avocado.
• Sliced Radishes: Thinly sliced radishes add a pop of color and a crunchy texture, enhancing both the look and mouthfeel of the salad.
• Extra Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves just before serving brightens up the dish and reinforces its fresh flavors.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender pieces of chicken marinated in citrus juices complement the freshness of the salad perfectly. They can be cooked on a grill or stovetop for that delicious charred flavor.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf with herbs and vegetables offers a hearty yet healthy side that pairs well with this refreshing salad.
• Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful mix of seasonal vegetables sautéed in olive oil creates a warm contrast to the coolness of the salad while keeping your meal light and nutritious.
• Cornbread Muffins: Soft cornbread muffins provide a sweet touch that balances out the savory elements of your meal, making them an irresistible side option.

Now you’re all set to enjoy your Avocado Corn Salad! Whether it’s served at a summer barbecue or as part of a delightful weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to bring smiles around the table. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Avocado Corn Salad is perfect for meal prep! It retains its fresh flavors well and can be easily stored to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 2-3 days for the best flavor and texture.
• Give it a gentle toss before serving to recombine ingredients.

Freezing

• This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the avocado’s texture change once frozen.
• It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad; it’s delicious served cold!
• If you prefer it warm, gently heat the corn in a pan and let it cool slightly before mixing with other ingredients.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this refreshing dish!

Can I make Avocado Corn Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Just mix everything together right before serving to keep the avocados from browning.

What can I substitute in Avocado Corn Salad?

Feel free to swap out ingredients! You can use red bell pepper instead of red onion or add black beans for extra protein.

Is Avocado Corn Salad healthy?

Absolutely! This salad is packed with nutrients from avocados, tomatoes, and corn. It’s a great source of healthy fats and fiber.

How long does Avocado Corn Salad last in the fridge?

It lasts about 2-3 days in an airtight container. Just be sure to toss it gently before serving again!

Can I add other vegetables to Avocado Corn Salad?

Of course! You can add diced cucumber, zucchini, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this vibrant Avocado Corn Salad! It’s not only quick and easy but also bursting with fresh flavors that celebrate summer. Whether you’re enjoying it at a picnic or as part of your weekly meal prep, this salad is sure to bring smiles around the table. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your version with friends and family!