Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

This Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is a refreshing and vibrant dish that embodies the essence of summer. With its sweet and smoky charred corn combined with creamy avocado, juicy cherry tomatoes, and flavorful roasted red onions, this salad makes a delightful addition to any barbecue or potluck gathering. Perfect for sharing, it showcases fresh ingredients that are sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of sweet corn, creamy avocado, and zesty dressing creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this salad in no time.
• Versatile Side Dish: This salad pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, or can be enjoyed on its own.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from fresh veggies and healthy fats from avocado, it’s a guilt-free choice.
• Stunning Presentation: The colorful ingredients make this salad visually appealing—perfect for impressing guests.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for charring the corn and enhancing its flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Great for combining all ingredients evenly without spilling.
• Sharp knife: A must-have for easily slicing through avocados and tomatoes.

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 Onions

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Slice the red onions into thick rounds.
3. Brush both sides of the onion slices with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

Step 2: Grill the Corn and Onions

1. Place the onions on the grill alongside the corn (with husks removed).
2. Cook for about 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally until charred.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before chopping.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, add chopped grilled onions, charred corn kernels (cut off the cob), halved red and yellow grape tomatoes, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup until well blended.

Step 5: Dress the Salad

1. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture.
2. Gently toss to combine all ingredients evenly without mashing the avocado.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve immediately as a side dish or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

This Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings summer to your table. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your salad presentation.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled meats for a delightful contrast of flavors.
• Pair with tacos for a fresh and vibrant addition to your meal.

In a Wrap

• Use the salad as a filling in wraps or burritos for a tasty on-the-go lunch.
• Combine with grilled chicken or beans for added protein.

On Toast

• Spread the salad atop toasted bread or crostini for an easy appetizer.
• Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra touch of flavor.

As Part of a Picnic

• Pack the salad in mason jars for a beautiful picnic presentation.
• Layer ingredients to keep them fresh until you’re ready to eat.

How to Perfect Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

To make your Charred Corn Avocado Salad even better, consider these simple tips. They will enhance the flavors and presentation of this delicious dish.

• Choose ripe avocados: Make sure your avocados are ripe but firm for the best texture in the salad.
• Grill corn properly: Ensure your corn is charred evenly for that smoky flavor. Use high heat and turn frequently.
• Season well: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they elevate the overall taste of the salad.
• Add acid: A splash more lemon juice can brighten up flavors and balance richness from avocado.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh cilantro truly enhances the freshness; consider adding other herbs like parsley or mint.
• Serve chilled: Allowing the salad to chill in the fridge before serving can help meld all the flavors together.

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

This vibrant Charred Corn Avocado Salad pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers add protein and taste, enhancing the salad’s freshness.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish mixed with herbs provides additional texture and nutrition.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances well with the smoky flavors of the salad.
4. Black Bean Tacos: These offer a hearty option that complements the bright notes from the salad.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil make a classic pair that adds creaminess and flavor contrast.
6. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread serves as a perfect vehicle to scoop up leftover salad dressing.
7. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds crunch and contrasts nicely with creamy avocado.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit mix offers sweetness that pairs well with savory dishes, balancing out your meal perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions, avoiding common mistakes is key to achieving the best flavor and texture.

• Skipping the seasoning – Failing to season your ingredients can leave your salad bland. Always add salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
• Overcooking the onions – Cooking red onions too long can make them too soft. Roast them just until they are tender but still hold their shape.
• Using unripe avocados – Unripe avocados lack flavor and creaminess. Check for ripeness before using; they should yield slightly to pressure.
• Not cooling the corn – Adding warm corn directly to the salad can affect its freshness. Let the corn cool before mixing it in.
• Ignoring ingredient ratios – Not balancing the ingredients can lead to an uneven taste. Follow the recipe measurements closely for a harmonious blend.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The salad will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep it separate from dressing if you want it to stay fresh longer.

Freezing Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

• Freezing is not recommended due to avocado becoming mushy.
• If necessary, freeze only the corn and onions separately.

Reheating Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use frozen corn for this salad?

Yes, frozen corn works well! Just thaw it before using for a similar texture.

What can I substitute for avocado?

Try using diced mango or cucumber as a fresh alternative if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.

How do I make this salad vegan?

The original recipe is already vegan-friendly! Just ensure all ingredients are plant-based.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers or cucumbers would add nice crunch and color to your Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions.

Final Thoughts

This Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is a delightful mix of flavors that perfectly encapsulates summer. It’s versatile enough to accompany any meal or stand alone as a light dish. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or dressings!