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This healthy summer roasted corn salad with avocado is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for warm weather. It celebrates fresh ingredients and smoky roasted corn, bringing a bright and satisfying flavor to your table. Whether you need a side for a BBQ or a light main, this salad delivers freshness with every bite and is effortlessly simple to prepare.
I first made this salad for a Labor Day gathering and it was the first dish to disappear. It’s become a summer favorite that friends always ask me to bring.
Ingredients
- Corn on the cob: three to four large ears provide natural sweetness and a crisp texture—it’s best to roast for smoky flavor
- Cherry tomatoes: one cup sliced in half add juicy bursts of sweetness choose ripe tomatoes that are slightly soft
- Green onion: half a cup thinly sliced offers fresh sharpness and a nice crunch
- Cilantro: one third cup chopped adds bright herbal notes, but feel free to swap with basil or parsley if preferred
- Avocado: one large ripe and diced cubes contribute creamy richness and healthy fats
- Olive oil: two tablespoons enhances flavor and helps marry ingredients use extra virgin for best taste
- Juice of one lime: gives zest and acidity, brightening up the salad
- Salt and pepper: season to taste to balance the flavors just right
Instructions
- Preheat the Skillet:
- Begin by heating a skillet over mediumhigh heat until it starts to smoke slightly—this ensures a hot surface for roasting corn kernels evenly.
- Roast the Corn:
- Add a light drizzle of olive oil to the hot skillet. Add the corn kernels and roast for four to six minutes, stirring often to allow even charring. The goal is to get some smokekissed parts for flavor.
- Cool the Corn:
- Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the roasted corn to cool completely. This step prevents the avocado from getting warm and mushy when mixed.
- Mix the Salad:
- Transfer the cooled corn to a large bowl. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and diced avocado. Gently fold everything together carefully so as not to mash the avocado.
- Dress and Season:
- Squeeze the juice of one lime over the salad. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to combine. Add salt and pepper to taste, then give the salad a gentle final toss.
- Serve Immediately:
- Enjoy the salad fresh to appreciate the contrast of textures and vibrant flavors at their best.
Avocado is my favorite ingredient here for the creamy texture it adds, balancing the brightness of lime and the snap of roasted corn. I remember serving this at a picnic where the combination of smoky sweetness and creamy avocado got everyone asking for the recipe.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for about seven days but expect some softening of the avocado after a day or two. For best texture eat within the first day.
Ingredient Substitutions
If fresh corn is unavailable, thaw fully frozen corn kernels and roast instead. You can try parsley or basil instead of cilantro for a different herbal note. If you do not have limes, lemon juice works well as a substitute for acidity.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled shrimp, salmon, or BBQ meats. It also makes a fresh topping for tacos, burgers, or hot dogs. Serve with tortilla chips as a summery dip too.
Serve this salad fresh for the best texture and flavor. It’s perfect for summer gatherings and quick to prepare.
FAQs About This Recipe
- → How can I roast corn for this salad?
Cut kernels from the cob and roast on a baking sheet with olive oil at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, finishing under the broiler for a few minutes for char.
- → Can I use grilled corn instead of roasted?
Yes, grilled corn adds a smoky flavor that works wonderfully with the other fresh ingredients.
- → What herbs complement the corn and avocado?
Cilantro adds a bright, citrusy note, but you can substitute with basil or parsley for a different twist.
- → How long will the salad keep fresh?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days, best enjoyed within the first few days for optimal freshness.
- → What dishes pair well with this salad?
It complements grilled shrimp, salmon, BBQ meats, tacos, or makes a tasty topping for burgers and hot dogs.