Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

This Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions captures the essence of summer in every bite. The combination of sweet, smoky charred corn and creamy avocado, paired with vibrant tomatoes and tangy dressing, makes it an ideal side for barbecues or potlucks. Enjoy this refreshing salad that brings together a medley of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The smoky char from the corn and the creaminess of avocado create a taste explosion.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this salad is easy to whip up even on busy days.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for grilled meats or as a light lunch on its own.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from fresh veggies, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The colorful ingredients make this salad visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your kitchen tools to make preparation seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that smoky char on the corn.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine all the ingredients evenly for a flavorful result.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for your vegetables, enhancing presentation.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 2 red onion
• 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
• 3 corn
• 200 g red grape tomatoes
• 200 g yellow grape tomatoes
• 1 avocado
• ¼ bunch cilantro (coriander)
• salt (to taste)
• pepper (to taste)

For the Dressing

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp maple syrup

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

Step 1: Prepare the Corn

• Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
• Brush each corn cob lightly with olive oil.
• Place the corn on the grill and cook until charred all over, about 10–15 minutes. Turn occasionally for even cooking.

Step 2: Roast the Onions

• Cut the red onions into thick slices.
• Toss them in a tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Grill the onions until tender and slightly charred, about 10–12 minutes. Remove and let cool.

Step 3: Chop the Vegetables

• Once cooled, cut the grilled corn kernels off the cob using a knife.
• Dice the grilled onions into bite-sized pieces.
• Halve the cherry tomatoes and dice the avocado.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

• In a small mixing bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Everything

• In a large mixing bowl, combine charred corn, diced onions, halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro.
• Pour in the dressing and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve

• Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley before enjoying this delightful dish!

How to Serve Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

This Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• This refreshing salad can be served on its own as a light lunch or dinner option, perfect for warm days.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak for a hearty meal that complements the smoky flavors.

In Tacos

• Use the salad as a filling for soft or hard-shell tacos. It adds a fresh crunch and vibrant colors to your taco night.

On Top of Greens

• Serve the salad over a bed of mixed greens for added texture and nutrition. Drizzle with extra dressing if desired.

With Tortilla Chips

• Enjoy it as a dip alongside tortilla chips. The charred corn and creamy avocado make it irresistible as an appetizer.

As a Potluck Favorite

• Bring this salad to potlucks or barbecues. Its unique flavor profile will surely impress your friends and family.

How to Perfect Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

To ensure your Charred Corn Avocado Salad is always a hit, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe avocados and fresh tomatoes for the best taste.
• Don’t Overcook the Corn: Grill or roast the corn just until it’s charred; overcooking can make it tough.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving. Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice depending on your preference.
• Serve Chilled: Allow the salad to cool in the refrigerator before serving for enhanced flavors.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Consume within two days for optimal freshness.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding black beans or feta cheese for extra flavor and protein.

Best Side Dishes for Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

This vibrant salad pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent choices you might enjoy.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers
   Juicy chicken skewers marinated in spices offer a delightful contrast to the salad’s freshness.
2. Quinoa Pilaf
   A nutty quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs provides a wholesome side that balances out the meal.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized bring a sweet touch that pairs well with the smoky corn.
4. Garlic Bread
   Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover salad, adding flavor and crunch to your meal.
5. Caprese Salad
   The classic combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil enhances the summer vibe of your table setting.
6. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw with crunchy cabbage complements the creamy avocado and refreshing corn perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the char: Not charring the corn can lead to a lack of flavor. Make sure to grill or roast your corn until it has a nice smoky flavor.
• Overcooking the onions: Cooking red onions too long can make them bitter. Roast them just until they are tender and slightly caramelized for the best taste.
• Using unripe avocados: An unripe avocado won’t have the creamy texture you want in this salad. Check for ripe avocados that yield slightly when squeezed.
• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season your salad can lead to blandness. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving.
• Forgetting the dressing balance: A poorly balanced dressing can overpower the salad. Mix lemon juice, Dijon, and maple syrup carefully to ensure harmony among flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 2 days in the fridge.
• Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

• Generally, it’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to avocado’s texture change.
• If you must freeze, leave out the avocado and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

Reheating Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes, avoiding excess moisture.
• Microwave: Place salad in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm the salad in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions?

Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is a vibrant dish featuring grilled corn, creamy avocado, sweet cherry tomatoes, and roasted onions dressed in a zesty lemon Dijon vinaigrette.

Can I customize my Charred Corn Avocado Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like black beans, feta cheese, or even jalapeños for added spice and flavor.

How do I prevent my avocados from browning?

To prevent browning, you can toss diced avocados with lime or lemon juice. This helps maintain their fresh green color.

Is Charred Corn Avocado Salad healthy?

Yes! This salad is packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and healthy fats from avocado. It’s also low in calories while high in fiber.

Final Thoughts

The Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether served at a barbecue or as a refreshing side dish, it appeals to many tastes. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients for an even more personalized touch!

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Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is a delightful summer dish that bursts with flavor. This vibrant salad features sweet, smoky corn grilled to perfection, creamy avocado, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all tossed in a zesty lemon Dijon vinaigrette. Perfect as a refreshing side for barbecues or potlucks, this salad will impress your guests with its colorful presentation and delicious medley of textures and tastes. With quick preparation and easy-to-find ingredients, it’s a hassle-free option for any occasion, whether served solo or alongside grilled proteins.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 red onions
• 3 corn cobs
• 200 g red grape tomatoes
• 200 g yellow grape tomatoes
• 1 avocado
• Fresh cilantro
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Dijon mustard
• Maple syrup

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Instructions

1. Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Brush corn with olive oil and grill until charred (10–15 minutes). Remove and let cool.
3. Slice red onions into thick rounds, toss in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grill until tender (10–12 minutes).
4. Cut the grilled corn kernels off the cob, dice the onions, halve the tomatoes, and chop the avocado.
5. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup for the dressing.
6. In a large bowl, combine corn, onions, tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro. Drizzle dressing over top and toss gently to coat.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 190
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Use ripe avocados for creaminess. Customize by adding black beans or feta cheese for extra flavor. Serve chilled for optimal taste.