Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

This Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is a vibrant dish that captures the essence of summer. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or a light lunch, this salad brings together the sweetness of charred corn and creamy avocado, brightened by the tang of lemon Dijon dressing. It’s not just a salad—it’s an explosion of flavor that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and quick cooking time, you can whip this salad up in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of smoky corn, fresh tomatoes, and zesty dressing creates a delightful taste experience.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side at your next barbecue or as a main course for a refreshing meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from fresh veggies, it’s a guilt-free addition to any meal.
• Vegan-Friendly: This salad suits various diets, making it perfect for gatherings with diverse guests.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help streamline the preparation process and ensure your ingredients are perfectly cooked and mixed.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or stovetop grill pan: Ideal for achieving that delicious char on the corn and onions.
• Large bowl: Provides ample space for mixing all ingredients without making a mess.
• Cutting board & Sharp knife: Essential for safely chopping vegetables and ensuring clean cuts.

Ingredients

Fresh Vegetables

• 2 red onions
• 3 corn
• 200 g red grape tomatoes
• 200 g yellow grape tomatoes
• 1 avocado
• ¼ bunch cilantro (coriander)

Dressing Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp maple syrup

Seasoning

• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)

How to Make Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

Step 1: Prepare the Corn and Onions

1. Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium heat.
2. Brush the red onions with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Place the whole corn cobs on the grill and add the onions beside them.

Step 2: Grill Until Charred

1. Grill the corn for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until charred.
2. Grill the onions for about 10-15 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 3: Chop Vegetables

1. Once grilled, allow the corn and onions to cool slightly.
2. Remove kernels from the cobs using a sharp knife.
3. Dice the grilled onions into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, combine the charred corn, chopped onions, halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together remaining olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.

Step 5: Dress the Salad

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

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately or chill in the fridge before serving for enhanced flavors! Enjoy this delightful Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions at your next gathering!

How to Serve Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

This vibrant Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some creative serving ideas to enhance your dining experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• Serve it as a light lunch option, perfect for warm days.
• Enjoy this salad on its own for a refreshing snack.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a hearty meal.
• The smoky flavors complement the charred corn beautifully.

In Tacos

• Use as a filling for soft corn tortillas.
• Add some spicy salsa for extra kick and texture.

On Top of Greens

• Serve over a bed of mixed greens for added crunch.
• Drizzle with extra dressing for enhanced flavor.

How to Perfect Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

To make the best Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions, consider the following tips that elevate the dish’s flavor and presentation.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe avocados and in-season tomatoes for maximum flavor. Fresh produce enhances the salad’s overall taste.
• Don’t Skip the Charring: Charring the corn brings out its sweetness. Make sure to cook it until it has a nice smoky flavor.
• Add Texture: Include toasted nuts or seeds for an added crunch. They provide a delightful contrast to the creamy avocado.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed. The right seasoning makes all the difference.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge enhances the flavors. It’s best served chilled, especially on hot days.

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

Complement your Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions by serving it alongside these tasty side dishes.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender chicken marinated in herbs complements the salad’s fresh flavors.
2. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread adds a comforting element that pairs well with the smoky salad.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa dish provides protein and works well with the salad’s textures.
4. Roasted Vegetable Platter: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and depth to your meal.
5. Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole served with tortilla chips adds an extra layer of flavor.
6. Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice dish is a perfect match, enhancing the Mexican-inspired theme of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the overall taste and presentation of the dish.

• Skipping the roasting: Failing to roast the red onions can lead to a raw flavor. Make sure to roast them until they are tender and caramelized for a deeper taste.
• Underseasoning: Not adding enough salt and pepper can result in bland flavors. Taste your salad before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Overcooking the corn: Cooking corn for too long can make it soggy. Aim for a charred exterior while keeping the kernels firm and juicy.
• Using unripe avocados: An unripe avocado won’t have the creamy texture that makes this salad delightful. Choose ripe avocados for the best experience.
• Neglecting freshness: Using old or wilted ingredients can compromise your salad. Always opt for fresh produce to enhance the flavor and appearance of your dish.
• Ignoring presentation: A well-presented salad is more inviting. Layer your ingredients thoughtfully and consider garnishing with cilantro for an extra pop of color.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best eaten within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

• Freezing is not recommended due to avocado’s texture change when thawed.
• If you must freeze, separate components (like corn and onions) before freezing.

Reheating Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in a covered dish for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Sauté on medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, you can use frozen corn, but fresh corn provides a better texture and flavor.

How do I customize this salad?

Feel free to add other ingredients like black beans or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad keeps well in the fridge and makes a great meal prep option for lunches.

What can I serve alongside this salad?

This salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as part of a larger barbecue spread.

Final Thoughts

The Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It brings together vibrant flavors that embody summer. Feel free to customize ingredients based on your preferences or seasonal availability. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!