Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

This Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions celebrates the vibrant flavors of summer. It’s a delightful blend of sweet, smoky charred corn, creamy avocado, and juicy grape tomatoes, all brought together by a zesty lemon Dijon dressing. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or a light lunch, this salad is not only refreshing but also easy to prepare. Enjoy it as a side dish or a wholesome main course that highlights seasonal produce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Flavors – The combination of charred corn and ripe avocado creates a taste explosion that brightens up any meal.
• Easy to Prepare – With just 15 minutes of prep time, this salad is quick and simple for even novice cooks.
• Versatile Dish – Serve it at gatherings, picnics, or enjoy it as a healthy lunch option on its own.
• Nutritious Ingredients – Packed with vitamins and fiber from fresh vegetables, this salad supports your healthy eating goals.
• Colorful Presentation – The vibrant colors of the ingredients make this salad visually appealing on any table setting.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to create your Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan – Necessary for achieving that perfect char on the corn and onions, enhancing the flavor significantly.
• Mixing bowl – Provides ample space for combining all ingredients without spilling.
• Knife – A sharp knife is essential for cleanly cutting vegetables like tomatoes and avocado.

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 Vegetables

Start by prepping your vegetables.
1. Peel and slice the red onions into thick rounds.
2. Husk the corn and cut off any silk.

Step 2: Char the Corn and Onions

Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
1. Brush both sides of the onion slices with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Place the corn and onion slices on the grill.
3. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until they are nicely charred.

Step 3: Combine Other Ingredients

While the corn and onions are grilling:
1. Halve the grape tomatoes and dice the avocado into cubes.
2. Chop the cilantro finely.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together:
1. Remaining olive oil (1 tablespoon), lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

Once grilled vegetables are cool enough to handle:
1. Cut kernels off the grilled corn cobs.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine charred corn, grilled onions (sliced), cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, cilantro, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to combine all ingredients.

Serve immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for a bit before serving! Enjoy your delicious 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 a vibrant dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just enjoying a family meal, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Grilled Proteins

• Chicken Skewers: Tender chicken skewers marinated in lemon and herbs complement the salad’s freshness.
• Beef Tacos: Flavorful beef tacos add a hearty element that balances the lightness of the salad.

Serve with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the delicious dressing.
• Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavors of garlic bread pair wonderfully with the smoky corn.

Use as a Topping

• Taco Fillings: This salad makes an excellent topping for tacos, adding crunch and zest.
• Grain Bowls: Spoon the salad over quinoa or brown rice for a nutritious grain bowl.

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.

• Bold Flavors: Enhance the dressing by adding more Dijon mustard or a splash of lime juice for extra zing.
• Fresh Herbs: Use fresh cilantro and even mint to give your salad an aromatic twist.
• Perfectly Ripe Avocado: Choose avocados that yield slightly to pressure for the best creamy texture.
• Quality Olive Oil: Opt for high-quality extra-virgin olive oil to enrich the salad’s flavor profile.
• Char Corn Properly: Make sure to char the corn until it’s golden brown for that delicious smoky taste.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before serving enhances its flavors.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Charred Corn Avocado Salad can create a delightful meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Chicken Breast: Marinate and grill chicken breasts for juicy, flavorful protein alongside the salad.
2. Vegetable Skewers: Colorful vegetable skewers roasted on the grill offer a healthy complement.
3. Quinoa Salad: A cold quinoa salad adds texture and nutty flavors that work well together.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Stuff bell peppers with rice, beans, and spices for a filling side dish.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes baked until tender provide a sweet contrast to the savory salad.
6. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus adds elegance and flavor without overpowering.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few tips to ensure your salad is perfect.

• Boldly ignore the seasoning: Not seasoning your ingredients can lead to dull flavors. Always season each layer of your salad for maximum taste.
• Boldly skip the roasting: Roasting red onions enhances their flavor and sweetness. Don’t be tempted to use raw onions; roast them for a richer taste.
• Boldly overcook the corn: Cooking corn too long can make it mushy. Aim for just enough time on the grill or stovetop to get that charred flavor without losing crunch.
• Boldly forget about freshness: Using stale or overly ripe produce can ruin your salad. Choose fresh, firm avocados and tomatoes for the best texture and flavor.
• Boldly rush the dressing: Skipping the chance to whisk the dressing well can leave it uneven. Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined for a perfectly balanced flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

• Freezing is not recommended due to the avocado’s texture changes after thawing.
• If you choose to freeze, do so without dressing, and consume within 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 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover lightly, and heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat for a few minutes, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding the Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions.

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

You can easily make this salad vegan by ensuring that all dressings and ingredients are plant-based. Replace any non-vegan items as necessary.

Can I customize my Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions?

Absolutely! You may add additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even include beans for extra protein.

What other dressings work well with this salad?

A simple vinaigrette made from olive oil and vinegar works beautifully. You can also try adding yogurt or tahini for creaminess.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This salad is great for meal prep, though it’s best to store the dressing separately until you’re ready to eat to keep everything fresh.

Final Thoughts

The Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is a refreshing dish that brings summer flavors year-round. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences and dietary needs. We encourage you to try making this delightful salad at your next gathering!