Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

This Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is a delightful mix of summer flavors that will brighten any table. With its sweet and smoky charred corn, creamy avocado, and zesty lemon Dijon dressing, this salad is perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or simply as a refreshing side dish for any meal. Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of charred corn, ripe avocado, and roasted red onions creates a delicious taste explosion.
• Easy to Prepare: This salad can be whipped up in just 45 minutes, making it a quick option for busy days.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side or main course, this salad pairs well with grilled meats or can stand alone as a light meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients like fiber and healthy fats, this salad is a wholesome choice for any diet.
• Fresh Summer Vibes: Enjoy the essence of summer with every bite, bringing sunshine to your dining table.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this tasty salad efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Gather your kitchen tools before you start to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or stovetop grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or stovetop grill pan: Essential for achieving that smoky char on the corn and onions.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of all the fresh ingredients without spills.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing the salad.
• Whisk: Perfect for combining the dressing components smoothly.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 2 red onions
• 3 ears of 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 (divided)
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp maple syrup

How to Make Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by prepping your ingredients. Chop the red onions into wedges and slice the cherry tomatoes in half.

Step 2: Grill the Corn and Onions

1. Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Brush the red onion wedges with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Place the onions on the grill along with whole ears of corn.
4. Grill until the onions are soft and charred (about 10 minutes) and turn the corn occasionally until lightly charred (about 15 minutes).

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Once cooked, let the grilled items cool slightly. Cut kernels off from the corn cobs.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine grilled corn kernels, grilled onion slices, halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together remaining olive oil (1 tablespoon), lemon juice, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl. Toss gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly without mashing the avocado.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately as a side dish or cover and chill in the refrigerator for about an hour before serving to enhance flavors. Enjoy your Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions!

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 served in numerous ways to enhance its delightful flavors. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a quiet meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• A perfect light meal option on warm days, this salad shines on its own, delivering fresh and vibrant flavors.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp for a hearty meal. The smoky char of the proteins complements the sweet corn beautifully.

On Tacos or Burritos

• Use the salad as a topping for tacos or inside burritos. The combination adds crunch and freshness to your favorite Mexican dishes.

Alongside Grilled Veggies

• Serve the salad next to a platter of grilled vegetables. The dynamic flavors will create an appealing and colorful spread.

In a Wrap

• Incorporate the salad into wraps with your choice of protein. It adds texture and flavor to every bite, making it an enjoyable lunch option.

How to Perfect Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

Achieving the best version of this Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is simple with a few key tips. Focus on freshness for maximum flavor and enjoyment.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for ripe avocados and seasonal tomatoes to get the best taste in your salad.
• Char Corn Properly: Ensure you get a good char on the corn by grilling it until it’s nicely browned; this enhances the smoky flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dressing before mixing; adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for a balanced flavor.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for 30 minutes allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Add Extra Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley just before serving can brighten up the dish even more.

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

This vibrant salad pairs well with various side dishes that complement its fresh and smoky notes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender chicken marinated in herbs makes a fantastic pairing with this salad.
2. Mexican Street Corn: Another corn-based dish that offers creamy flavors mixed with spices—perfect harmony!
3. Quinoa Pilaf: A light and nutritious side that adds heartiness without overshadowing the main salad.
4. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch alongside the fresh textures of the salad.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with rice and beans serve as an exciting complement to this dish.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb option that works well with many salads.
7. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges bring comfort food vibes while balancing out the freshness of your meal.
8. Caprese Salad: A simple tomato and mozzarella dish that echoes some flavors found in the main recipe—refreshing!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Skipping the charred corn: Not charring the corn can result in a less flavorful salad. Always grill or roast the corn to enhance its sweetness and smokiness.
• Overcooking the onions: Cooking red onions too long can make them bitter. Aim for just enough time to soften and caramelize them without losing their bright flavor.
• Using underripe avocados: An underripe avocado can ruin the creamy texture of your salad. Ensure your avocados are perfectly ripe for optimal creaminess.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to properly season your salad may leave it bland. Don’t forget to taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
• Not letting the salad rest: Serving immediately after mixing may not allow flavors to meld. Letting it sit for a few minutes enhances the overall taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 2 days in the fridge but is best enjoyed fresh.

Freezing Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

• Freezing is not recommended due to avocado’s texture change upon thawing.
• If necessary, freeze components separately, like corn and onions, but consume within a 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.
• Microwave: Place salad in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals until warm, usually about 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat while stirring frequently until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delightful salad.

How do I make Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions vegan?

You can easily make this salad vegan by substituting maple syrup for honey and ensuring all ingredients are plant-based.

Can I use frozen corn for this salad?

Yes, you can use frozen corn. Just thaw it first, then sauté or grill briefly to enhance its flavor before adding it to the salad.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to include bell peppers, cucumber, or radishes for added crunch and flavor!

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare most components ahead of time but add the avocado right before serving to prevent browning.

Final Thoughts

Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is not only vibrant and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or dressings. This makes it an excellent addition to any meal or gathering. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

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Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is a vibrant and refreshing side dish that embodies the essence of summer. The combination of smoky, charred corn, creamy avocado, and sweet roasted red onions creates a delightful flavor profile perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or any meal. Tossed in a zesty lemon Dijon dressing, this salad not only looks stunning but also packs in nutrients like fiber and healthy fats, making it a wholesome choice. Ready in just under an hour, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own or as an accompaniment to grilled proteins. Elevate your dining experience with this easy-to-make salad!

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 red onions
• 3 ears of corn
• 200 g red grape tomatoes
• 200 g yellow grape tomatoes
• 1 avocado
• ¼ bunch cilantro
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Dressing: olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, maple syrup

Instructions

1. Chop the red onions into wedges and halve the cherry tomatoes.
2. Preheat the grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush onion wedges with olive oil.
3. Grill onions and whole corn until charred—about 10 minutes for onions and 15 minutes for corn.
4. Let cool slightly, then cut kernels off the corn cobs.
5. In a large bowl, combine grilled corn, onion slices, tomatoes, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro.
6. Whisk together dressing ingredients in a small bowl; pour over the salad and toss gently.
7. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for an hour before serving.

• Author: Stephanie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Use ripe avocados for optimal creaminess. Allowing the salad to sit enhances flavor melding; consider chilling it for at least 30 minutes. Customize with additional veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.