Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

This Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is a delightful blend of flavors that captures the essence of summer. With its sweet and smoky charred corn, creamy avocado, and vibrant tomatoes, this salad serves as a perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or potlucks. Its fresh ingredients and zesty dressing make it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Flavors: Enjoy the combination of sweet corn, ripe avocado, and tangy dressing that brings a burst of summer to your plate.
• Easy to Prepare: This salad comes together in just 45 minutes, making it a quick option for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with grilled meats or serve it on its own for a light meal; it’s perfect for various cuisines and occasions.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and healthy fats from avocado, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the salad in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together for an even tastier experience.

Tools and Preparation

To create this flavorful Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions, you’ll need some essential tools to help you along the way.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Grill or stovetop grill pan
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Serving spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all your fresh ingredients without spilling.
• Grill or stovetop grill pan: Ideal for achieving that perfect char on the corn and red onions while adding rich flavor.
• Cutting board: Offers a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cuts, making prep work quicker and safer.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 2 red onion
• 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 (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 gathering all your ingredients. Rinse the cherry tomatoes and cilantro under cool water. Slice the red onions into thick rings and set aside.

Step 2: Grill the Corn and Onions

1. Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Brush two tablespoons of olive oil over the corn and onion rings.
3. Place them on the grill. Cook until charred, about 5–7 minutes for each side.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

1. Once grilled, let the corn cool slightly before cutting off the kernels.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine grilled corn kernels, sliced red onions, halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together remaining olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 5: Toss Everything Together

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let flavors develop before serving. Enjoy your vibrant 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 various ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• This salad shines on its own as a light lunch or dinner option. The fresh ingredients provide a satisfying and healthy meal.

Paired with Grilled Proteins

• Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp. The smoky flavors of the protein complement the charred corn beautifully.

Topped on Tacos

• Use this salad as a vibrant topping for tacos. It adds freshness and texture that elevates any taco filling.

As Part of a Picnic Spread

• Pack this salad for picnics or outdoor gatherings. Its refreshing taste makes it an ideal companion for warm days.

In a Wrap

• Incorporate the salad into wraps with your choice of protein. It adds flavor and nutrition while keeping the wrap light and fresh.

How to Perfect Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

To ensure your Charred Corn Avocado Salad is always top-notch, consider these simple tips for perfection.

• Choose Ripe Avocados: Make sure your avocados are ripe for the best texture and flavor in your salad.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn, tomatoes, and cilantro elevate the taste. Look for seasonal produce whenever possible.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference. A little extra seasoning can make a big difference.

• Grill Corn Properly: Ensure you char the corn just enough to get that smoky flavor without burning it. Aim for golden-brown kernels.

• Allow Flavors to Marinate: Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes after mixing to allow flavors to meld together for an improved taste.

• Add Protein: For a heartier dish, consider adding black beans or chickpeas to increase protein content and make it more filling.

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

This salad pairs well with various side dishes that complement its bright flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers provide a flavorful protein option that pairs nicely with the salad’s freshness.

2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs adds a nutritious grain element that balances the meal.

3. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread offers a comforting side that contrasts well with the crisp salad.

4. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds depth and can be prepared in advance for easy serving.

5. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with salsa give an enjoyable crunch alongside the creamy salad.

6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides additional crunch and complements the sweetness of the charred corn beautifully.

7. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar enhances freshness while providing a crisp texture contrast.

8. Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice pilaf can act as a hearty base that works wonderfully beneath the vibrant salad components.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is easy, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• choice of ingredients: Using old or stale ingredients can ruin the salad’s fresh taste. Always select ripe avocados and fresh corn.
• cooking time: Overcooking the corn can lead to a soggy texture. Aim for a charred look without losing crunch.
• seasoning errors: Skipping salt and pepper can make your salad bland. Season each layer as you build your salad for maximum flavor.
• dressing mistakes: Adding too much dressing can drown your salad. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
• neglecting presentation: A well-presented salad is more appetizing. Take time to arrange your ingredients beautifully in the bowl.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

• Not recommended, as freezing alters the texture of avocado and tomatoes.
• If necessary, freeze only the corn separately.

Reheating Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (15-20 seconds) until warm; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Sauté on low heat, stirring frequently until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing and enjoying this delicious salad.

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

You can easily make this salad vegan by omitting the maple syrup or substituting it with agave nectar.

Can I use frozen corn in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen corn. Just thaw it before charring for similar flavors.

What other vegetables pair well with Charred Corn Avocado Salad?

Consider adding bell peppers, cucumbers, or radishes for extra crunch and color.

How long does Charred Corn Avocado Salad last?

The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days if kept airtight.

Final Thoughts

This Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different veggies or proteins to suit your taste. Enjoy it as a side dish at barbecues or potlucks, or savor it alone as a refreshing meal!