This vibrant and smoky Fire-Roasted Corn and Avocado Salad combines sweet charred corn with creamy avocado, fresh vegetables, and zesty lime for a refreshing and satisfying dish. Perfect as a side or light main, this salad bursts with summer flavors and is great for BBQs, potlucks, or healthy weekday meals.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

4 ears of fresh corn, husks removed
2 ripe avocados, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 2 limes
Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Lightly brush corn with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Grill corn for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred in spots and tender.
Remove corn from grill and let cool slightly before cutting kernels off the cob.
In a large bowl, combine grilled corn, diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño.
Drizzle with remaining olive oil and lime juice.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Gently toss to combine and serve immediately or chill before serving.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 250
Protein: 4g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 7g
Sugar: 5g

Fire-Roasted Corn and Avocado Salad: A Perfect Summer Dish

The Fire-Roasted Corn and Avocado Salad is a delightful and nutritious dish that offers a balance of flavors, textures, and vibrant colors. This recipe brings together the sweetness of grilled corn, the richness of avocado, and the tang of lime, creating a fresh and satisfying salad perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, looking for a light and healthy lunch, or preparing a side dish for a gathering, this salad will certainly impress.

Grilled Corn: The Secret to Depth of Flavor

One of the key elements of this dish is the fire-roasted corn. Grilling the corn brings out its natural sweetness and adds a smoky depth of flavor that can’t be replicated with boiled or steamed corn. The slight charring that occurs during the grilling process enhances the overall taste of the salad, providing a contrast to the creaminess of the avocado. When grilling, it’s important to rotate the corn occasionally to ensure an even char without burning it, resulting in perfectly roasted kernels that offer both texture and flavor.

The Role of Avocado in the Salad

Avocado is an essential component of this salad. It adds a rich, creamy texture that balances the crunchiness of the grilled corn and the freshness of the vegetables. The healthy fats in avocado are not only good for your heart but also help in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, E, and K. Moreover, the mild flavor of avocado complements the other ingredients without overpowering them, making it an ideal base for this refreshing salad.

The Freshness of Vegetables

Along with corn and avocado, this salad incorporates other fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes and red onions. These vegetables add a burst of color and nutrition to the dish. Cherry tomatoes contribute a juicy sweetness that pairs well with the grilled corn, while the finely chopped red onions bring a sharp bite that enhances the overall flavor profile. The combination of these vegetables with the creamy avocado and smoky corn creates a well-rounded and satisfying salad.

The Zesty Lime Dressing

The dressing for this salad is simple but packed with flavor. Lime juice is the key ingredient, adding a bright, tangy element that lifts the dish and ties the flavors together. The acidity of the lime balances the richness of the avocado and the sweetness of the corn. The addition of olive oil creates a smooth texture, making the dressing light yet flavorful. Together, lime and olive oil form the perfect foundation for this salad’s dressing, complementing the natural flavors of the other ingredients.

The Spice Factor: Jalapeño for Extra Kick

For those who enjoy a little heat, the addition of jalapeño provides a spicy kick that takes the flavor profile to the next level. While the jalapeño is optional, it can bring a nice contrast to the sweetness of the corn and the creaminess of the avocado. By removing the seeds and finely dicing the jalapeño, you can control the level of heat in the salad, allowing it to be as mild or spicy as you prefer.

A Versatile Salad for Any Occasion

This Fire-Roasted Corn and Avocado Salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. It works beautifully as a side dish for grilled meats, particularly barbecue or roasted chicken. It can also stand alone as a light vegetarian meal or be paired with a protein like grilled shrimp or tofu for a more substantial dish. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, a family dinner, or a potluck, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Health Benefits of This Salad

Not only is this salad bursting with flavor, but it is also packed with essential nutrients. The fresh vegetables provide an array of vitamins and minerals, while the avocado contributes heart-healthy fats. Corn is a good source of fiber and antioxidants, which can support digestive health and reduce inflammation. Lime juice is rich in vitamin C, helping to boost the immune system. Together, these ingredients create a nutritious and well-balanced dish that supports overall health and wellness.

Why Grilling the Corn Matters

Grilling the corn is a crucial step in bringing out the full flavor potential of the salad. Roasting corn over an open flame or on a grill caramelizes the sugars naturally present in the kernels, resulting in a sweet and smoky flavor. The charred bits of corn add texture and a depth of flavor that boiling or steaming cannot replicate. This grilling process also imparts a slight smoky aroma that complements the freshness of the other ingredients.

Creating the Perfect Balance of Textures

One of the most enjoyable aspects of this salad is the variety of textures it offers. The tender, creamy avocado contrasts beautifully with the crunchy, slightly charred corn. The tomatoes add juiciness and freshness, while the red onions provide a subtle crunch and sharpness. Together, these textures create a delightful mouthfeel with every bite, making this salad not only flavorful but also interesting to eat.

Making the Salad Ahead of Time

This salad can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal dish for meal prep or gatherings. If you’re planning to make the salad in advance, it’s best to prepare all the ingredients separately and toss them together just before serving. This ensures that the avocado stays fresh and doesn’t brown too quickly. The dressing can also be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine everything and enjoy.

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

For the best results, use the freshest ingredients available. Fresh corn on the cob, ripe avocados, and vine-ripened tomatoes will elevate the taste of this salad. When selecting your corn, look for ears with plump kernels and bright green husks. Choose avocados that are firm but yield slightly to gentle pressure for the perfect creamy texture. Fresh cilantro and red onions should also be crisp and flavorful to ensure the salad is at its best.

Adapting the Salad to Your Taste

One of the great things about this salad is its adaptability. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. For a more substantial salad, add protein-rich ingredients like grilled chicken, black beans, or quinoa. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, simply skip the animal protein and enjoy the fresh vegetables and healthy fats from the avocado. You can also adjust the spiciness by using a milder pepper or omitting the jalapeño altogether.

Pairing This Salad with Drinks

This Fire-Roasted Corn and Avocado Salad pairs wonderfully with refreshing beverages. A cold glass of iced tea or lemonade complements the tangy lime dressing, while a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay enhances the flavors without overpowering them. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a splash of lime or cucumber-infused water would be perfect for a crisp, clean taste.

The Best Way to Serve the Salad

When serving this salad, presentation matters. The bright colors of the corn, tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro make for an eye-catching dish. To make it even more visually appealing, consider serving the salad in a large, shallow bowl or platter, allowing the vibrant ingredients to shine. Garnish with extra cilantro or a few lime wedges for a finishing touch.

Why This Salad is a Crowd-Pleaser

With its combination of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and eye-catching presentation, this salad is sure to please a crowd. Whether served as a side dish or a light main course, it appeals to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. It’s also a great choice for guests with dietary restrictions, as it’s naturally vegetarian and gluten-free.

Seasonal Adaptations for the Salad

While this salad is perfect for summer, it can be adapted to different seasons by swapping out some ingredients. In the fall, for example, you could substitute roasted sweet potatoes for the grilled corn, and in the winter, pomegranate seeds could add a touch of sweetness and color. The versatility of the salad means it can be enjoyed year-round, no matter the season.

Making It a Complete Meal

If you’re looking to turn this salad into a more substantial meal, consider adding a protein source. Grilled shrimp, chicken breast, or even black beans can be added to make the salad more filling. This transformation turns the salad from a side dish into a hearty main course that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner.

Why This Salad is a Healthy Choice

This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of fiber from the corn, healthy fats from the avocado, and antioxidants from the tomatoes and cilantro makes this salad a healthy choice for any meal. The lime juice adds a burst of vitamin C, which supports the immune system and helps with collagen production for healthy skin.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Fire-Roasted Corn and Avocado Salad is a flavorful, nutritious, and versatile dish that’s perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch, a refreshing side, or a standalone meal, this salad brings together a harmonious mix of flavors, textures, and colors. With its combination of smoky grilled corn, creamy avocado, fresh vegetables, and zesty lime dressing, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Try it at your next BBQ or family gathering, and you’ll find it’s a dish that everyone will enjoy.

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