Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad

Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. This salad features juicy strawberries, creamy avocado, and sweet grilled corn, all tossed together with a delightful homemade honey mustard balsamic vinaigrette. Ideal for picnics, BBQs, or any gathering, this salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and nutrition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination: The mix of sweet strawberries, savory corn, and creamy avocado offers a delightful taste experience.
• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep and cook time, you can whip up this salad in just 20 minutes.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side dish or main course, it suits various occasions from casual lunches to festive gatherings.
• Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad contributes to a balanced diet.
• Colorful Presentation: The vibrant colors make it an eye-catching addition to any table setting.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad efficiently, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron grill pan or outdoor grill
• Mixing bowl
• Small bowl for vinaigrette
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron grill pan or outdoor grill: Essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks on the corn, enhancing flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining all ingredients easily without spills.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth and well-mixed vinaigrette quickly.

Ingredients

Summertime special rainbow colored salad with grilled corn on the cob and a homemade honey mustard balsamic vinaigrette. Great for picnics and BBQs!

For the Salad

• 2 ears of sweet corn
• 2-3 cups spring mix baby greens
• 2-3 cups kale, roughly chopped
• 1 1/2 cups strawberries, diced
• 3 tablespoons shelled pistachios
• 1/4 cup blueberries
• 1/2 avocado, diced
• 2 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, roughly minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, roughly minced
• Fresh ground black pepper to taste

For the Vinaigrette

• 2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 2 teaspoons stone ground mustard
• 1/8 teaspoon coarse salt

How to Make Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad

Step 1: Grill the Corn

Preheat a cast iron grill pan at medium-high heat or prepare an outdoor grill. Drizzle each ear of corn with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper as desired. Using tongs:
1. Place the corn on the heated grill.
2. Cook each side until you see grill marks forming on the kernels; this should take about 10 minutes total.
3. Once done, remove from heat and let cool before slicing off kernels.

Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together all ingredients for the vinaigrette (olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, stone ground mustard, and salt).
2. Ensure it’s well combined and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine all salad ingredients including the cooked corn kernels.
2. Drizzle with your homemade honey mustard vinaigrette.
3. Toss gently to combine everything evenly.
4. Serve immediately for optimal freshness!

How to Serve Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad

Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad is a vibrant dish perfect for summer gatherings. Its fresh flavors pair well with various options, making it a versatile choice for any meal.

As a Main Course

• Serve with grilled chicken: The salad complements the smoky flavor of grilled chicken beautifully.
• Pair with quinoa: Adding quinoa makes the salad more filling and nutritious.

As a Side Dish

• Accompany with BBQ ribs: The sweetness of the salad balances well with savory BBQ flavors.
• Serve alongside fish tacos: The lightness of the salad enhances the richness of the tacos.

For Picnics and Potlucks

• Pack in individual containers: This makes it easy for guests to enjoy at outdoor events.
• Include in a mixed greens platter: It adds color and variety to a healthy spread.

With Bread Options

• Offer with crusty bread: A slice of artisan bread is perfect for scooping up the salad.
• Include pita chips: Crunchy pita chips add texture and fun to your serving experience.

How to Perfect Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad

To enhance your Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad, consider these helpful tips for great results.

• Choose ripe avocados: Ripe avocados provide creaminess that elevates the salad’s texture.
• Use fresh strawberries: Fresh berries bring out the best flavor, making your salad taste even better.
• Grill corn just right: Aim for charred kernels; they add a delicious smoky flavor to the dish.
• Adjust vinaigrette sweetness: Tailor the honey amount in your dressing to suit your taste preferences.
• Add protein for heartiness: Toss in grilled shrimp or chickpeas to make it more substantial.
• Serve chilled: Refrigerate before serving; this enhances the refreshing qualities of the salad.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad

Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers enhance the meal’s freshness.
2. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful contrast to the salad’s savory elements.
3. Cucumber Feta Salad: This light and tangy dish pairs well, offering a refreshing bite alongside.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes provide hearty satisfaction, balancing the lightness of the salad.
5. Caprese Skewers: These skewers of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil bring vibrant colors and flavors that match well.
6. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks are great for dipping into any leftover vinaigrette on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating a delicious Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad can be easy, but avoiding common mistakes is key.

• Skipping the grilling step: Grilling the corn adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step for a bland salad.
• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much vinaigrette can make the salad soggy. Start with a little and add more as needed.
• Ignoring freshness: Using old or wilted greens can ruin the salad’s appeal. Always use fresh ingredients for the best results.
• Not customizing to taste: Everyone has different preferences. Adjust ingredients like nuts or cheese based on what you enjoy.
• Cutting ingredients unevenly: Uniform sizes ensure even distribution in each bite. Chop all ingredients similarly for a better presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• • Container: Use an airtight container to keep it fresh longer.

Freezing Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad

• • Duration: Best if consumed fresh; however, you can freeze it for up to 1 month.
• • Container: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, but note that some ingredients may not thaw well.

Reheating Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad.

Can I prepare the Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad in advance?

Yes, you can prep ingredients ahead of time but wait to dress the salad until just before serving to keep it fresh.

What are some variations of Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad?

You can add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp or use different nuts for added crunch and flavor.

Is there a substitute for goat cheese in this salad?

Absolutely! Feta cheese or even a dairy-free alternative works well if you prefer something different.

How do I make this salad vegan-friendly?

Omit the goat cheese and use maple syrup instead of honey in the vinaigrette for a vegan version of Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad.

Final Thoughts

The Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad is not only vibrant and flavorful but also highly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite fruits or proteins. It’s perfect for summertime picnics, BBQs, or as a refreshing side dish any day of the year!