Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

This Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is the perfect blend of fresh flavors, making it an ideal dish for summer gatherings. The smoky sweetness of charred corn pairs beautifully with creamy avocado and roasted red onions, creating a delightful side salad that complements any barbecue or potluck. This vibrant salad not only looks stunning but also bursts with flavor, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this salad comes together quickly, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of charred corn, ripe tomatoes, and zesty dressing creates a deliciously balanced taste experience that will impress your guests.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a light lunch option, this salad adapts to various occasions with ease.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and healthy fats from avocado, this salad is both satisfying and good for you.
• Vibrant Presentation: The colorful mix of ingredients not only tastes great but also adds visual appeal to your table.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions efficiently, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that smoky char on the corn, enhancing the overall flavor of the salad.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows for easy mixing of all ingredients without making a mess.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts through tomatoes and avocados for even-sized pieces.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables while protecting your counters.

Ingredients

For this delicious Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions, you will need:

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 Vegetables

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Cut the red onions into wedges.
3. Shuck the corn and remove the husks.

Step 2: Grill the Corn and Onions

1. Brush the onions and corn lightly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Place them on the grill. Cook until charred, about 10-15 minutes for the corn and 5-7 minutes for the onions. Turn occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Chop and Combine Ingredients

1. Once grilled, allow the corn to cool slightly before cutting off the kernels.
2. Dice the grilled red onions into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine grilled corn kernels, diced red onions, halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

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

Step 5: Dress the Salad

1. Pour the dressing over salad ingredients in the mixing bowl.
2. Gently toss everything together until well-coated.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld together beautifully. Enjoy your Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions at your next gathering!

How to Serve Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

This Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is not only delicious but also versatile. Here are some creative ways to serve it at your next gathering.

As a Standalone Dish

• Serve it chilled as a light lunch or dinner option. The fresh ingredients make it satisfying and refreshing.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken or turkey for a hearty meal. The smoky flavors of the salad complement the grilled meats beautifully.

In a Wrap

• Use the salad as a filling for a wrap. Spread some hummus on a tortilla, add the salad, and roll it up for an easy lunch.

As a Topping

• Top your favorite grain bowls with this salad. It adds a burst of flavor and color, enhancing any dish.

With Tortilla Chips

• Serve it alongside crispy tortilla chips as a dip. The combination of textures makes for an exciting appetizer.

How to Perfect Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

To elevate your Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe avocados: Make sure your avocados are perfectly ripe for the best texture and flavor in your salad.
• Char corn properly: Grill the corn until it’s nicely charred for that smoky sweetness, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for maximum flavor impact.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh cilantro adds brightness; you can substitute with parsley if preferred, but ensure they are fresh for optimal taste.
• Make ahead of time: Prepare the components in advance but mix them just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.

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

If you’re looking for perfect side dishes to accompany your Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions, here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Seasoned chicken skewers grilled to perfection pair well with the salad’s freshness.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf infused with herbs can add a nutty flavor that complements the salad beautifully.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until golden provide an earthy contrast to the bright flavors of the salad.
4. Vegetable Skewers: Colorful vegetable skewers grilled alongside the corn add variety and nutrition to your meal.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice and beans offer heartiness while keeping things plant-based and tasty.
6. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread can serve as an excellent accompaniment, providing crunch and indulgence alongside the fresh salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions, avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Using Raw Onions: Raw onions can overpower the dish. Roasting them enhances their sweetness and adds depth of flavor. Always roast your onions until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
• Not Charring the Corn Properly: Undercooked corn lacks that smoky flavor. Ensure you char the corn on a hot grill or skillet until it’s nicely browned, which enhances the salad’s taste.
• Overripping Avocado: An overly ripe avocado can turn mushy. Choose avocados that yield slightly when pressed but are not too soft to ensure a creamy yet firm texture in your salad.
• Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season your ingredients can lead to a bland salad. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to your charred corn and other veggies for maximum flavor.
• Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro add brightness and enhance overall taste. Always include them just before serving for the best flavor impact.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad as fresh ingredients like avocado do not thaw well.

Reheating Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions.

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

You can make this salad vegan by omitting any honey or maple syrup substitutes and using agave nectar instead for sweetness.

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn can be used; just ensure it’s thawed and drained before adding it to the salad for best results.

What can I substitute for Dijon mustard in this recipe?

You can replace Dijon mustard with yellow mustard or a mix of olive oil and lemon juice for a milder flavor.

How long does Charred Corn Avocado Salad last in the fridge?

The salad lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

This Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is a delightful blend of flavors perfect for summer gatherings or as a healthy side dish. It’s versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give this refreshing salad a try at your next barbecue!