Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad with Zesty Lime Dressing

Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever wondered what the best bbq side dishes are? This Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad is the answer! It's got that sweet corn flavour with creamy avocado.
Honestly, it's the perfect combo for your next barbie!
Brief Overview
This summer salad recipe hails from sunny California, basically sunshine in a bowl. This is an easy recipe, taking about 35 minutes from start to finish.
It makes 6 servings, perfect for a small gathering.
Main Benefits
Avocado is packed with healthy fats, so this salad is actually good for you! Serve this salad at your next BBQ or garden party.
What makes it so special? It's the zesty lime dressing and the perfect balance of flavors.
Ready to dive in? Let's talk about the ingredients.
What You'll Need For This Killer Salad
- Sweet Corn: 4 ears of fresh corn.
- Creamy Goodness: 2 ripe avocados.
- Juicy Bites: 1 pint of cherry tomatoes.
- Onion Kick: Half a red onion, thinly sliced.
- Herb Freshness: A quarter cup of chopped cilantro.
- Lime Zest: Quarter cup of fresh lime juice.
- Sweet Touch: 1 tablespoon of honey.
- Garlic Power: 1 minced clove of garlic.
Let's Make Magic Happen
First things first, brush your corn with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Then get that grill smoking hot and grill the corn until it's a little charred, about 12- 15 minutes.
After the corn is cool enough to handle, cut those kernels off the cob. This is the foundation of your healthy salad recipes
Next, whip up that lime cilantro dressing. Whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey, garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you're feeling brave.
Remember to taste as you go. Finally, toss everything together in a bowl. And there you have it, an easy pasta salad recipe .
Don't forget to taste and add more salt and pepper to taste.
Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to whip up this fantastic Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad! Finding the right ingredients and having your equipment ready will make the process smoother than a pint of Guinness.
I can already smell the grill working on some best bbq side dishes .
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Sorted
Main Ingredients: Freshness is Key!
Okay, so here's the shopping list, and I mean the real shopping list. None of that vague 'a bit of this, a sprinkle of that' nonsense. We're going precise.
- 4 ears fresh corn, husks and silks removed (quality indicator: plump kernels, bright green husks)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (5 ml)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (2.5 ml)
- 2 ripe avocados, pitted and diced (quality indicator: yields slightly to gentle pressure)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (approx. 500 grams)
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (coriander) ( 60 ml, packed)
Dressing Time!
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice (approx. 2-3 limes) ( 60 ml)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil ( 30 ml)
- 1 tablespoon honey ( 15 ml)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) ( 1.25 ml)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Honestly, the quality of your corn and avocados really matters. Look for plump corn kernels and avocados that give slightly when you press them gently. Don’t be shy!
Seasoning Notes: Flavor Bomb Time!
This salad is all about fresh, zesty flavors. The lime and cilantro are a must have combo, but don’t be afraid to play around.
- Essential Combo: Lime, cilantro, and a touch of sweetness (honey).
- Flavor Enhancers: Red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Substitution Alert: No cilantro? Parsley will do in a pinch, but it's not quite the same.
Remember that time I tried making this with dried cilantro? Disaster! It tasted like potpourri. Fresh is always best! These summer salad recipes are all about the freshness.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
You don't need fancy gadgets for this. Just the basics:
- Grill (gas or charcoal)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
No grill? No worries! A grill pan or even roasting the corn in the oven works fine. My auntie uses a george foreman!.
I think that one of the great things about this salad is that it works as one of many bbq side dish ideas that you can prepare using simple ingredients.
And you're sorted. Happy grilling! Let's see if this helps you impress with some easy pasta salad recipe this weekend.
The potato salad is nice, but it deserves a fresh challenger. Don't you think so? If you want some healthy salad recipes , this is a good starting point.
Also, you can add some grilled vegetable sides for an extra taste. I promise you won't regret it! And if you have any bbq corn recipes , feel free to share them with me!
And don't forget: a good coleslaw recipe easy is also essential for any BBQ!
Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad: Your New BBQ Hero
Honestly, are you even having a proper BBQ without some amazing bbq side dishes ? Forget boring potato chips! This Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad is about to become your new best friend.
I'm talking sunshine-in-a-bowl vibes, people! It’s super simple, bursting with flavor, and a guaranteed crowd pleaser. Plus, it sneaks in some healthy stuff bonus points! Think of it as a delicious upgrade to your usual summer salad recipes .
Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row
- Essential mise en place: First, get all your ingredients prepped. Shuck that corn. Dice the avocado. Halve those cute cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion. Chop the cilantro.
- Time saving organization tips: Do all your chopping before you even think about firing up the grill. Trust me, your future self will thank you!
- Safety reminders: Grilling involves fire. Be careful! Keep a watchful eye and avoid distractions. Don't want any singed eyebrows at this party.
step-by-step Process: Grilling Like a Pro
- Brush the 4 corn ears with 1 tablespoon olive oil .
- Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon sea salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper .
- Grill over medium heat, turning often, until lightly charred. About 12- 15 minutes .
- Cool slightly before cutting the kernels off the cob.
- Whisk together the dressing: ¼ cup lime juice , 2 tablespoons olive oil , 1 tablespoon honey , 1 clove minced garlic , optional ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes , salt, and pepper.
- Combine the corn, 2 diced avocados , 1 pint halved cherry tomatoes , ½ thinly sliced red onion , and ¼ cup chopped cilantro in a bowl.
- Pour the dressing over and toss gently.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Salad Game
- Expert Tip Numero Uno: Soak the corn in water for 30 minutes before grilling. It'll stop it from drying out.
- Common Mistake Avoided: Don't overcook the corn. You want it tender, not mushy.
- make-ahead Options: You can grill the corn ahead of time. Just store the kernels in the fridge. But dress the salad right before serving to avoid soggy avocado.
This isn’t just another recipe; it's an experience. I remember the first time I made this salad, I was a bit skeptical about the avocado and corn combo, but oh my gosh, it was a revelation! The sweetness of the corn with the creamy avocado and the zingy lime dressing? Chef's kiss!
It's become a staple best bbq side dishes , often requested at my family gatherings.
It’s also easily adaptable. Not feeling corn? Try grilled zucchini or bell peppers. Hate cilantro (I know, some people do!)? Use parsley instead.
And if you're after something even quicker, an easy pasta salad recipe or a simple potato salad could also do the trick, but honestly, this corn and avocado salad is where it’s at! Also, this fits right in with those healthy salad recipes .
Alright, let's talk shop about this amazing Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s your new secret weapon for bbq side dishes .
Honestly, it's so easy, even my nan could make it!
Recipe Notes
Time to fine tune this beaut. I learned a few things over the years. Let's turn this into one of your best summer salad recipes , shall we?
Serving Suggestions for the Win
Forget boring salads! Presentation matters. Think vibrant colours, people!
- Plating and presentation ideas: Serve it in a quirky bowl. Garnish with extra cilantro and a lime wedge. Boom! Restaurant vibes.
- Complementary sides or beverages: This salad is amazing with grilled chicken or fish. And a nice cold beer? Sorted. It also goes really well with other bbq side dishes like a classic potato salad or even just some crusty bread.
Storage Tips for Leftovers
We all make too much sometimes, don't we? Don't worry, I got you.
- Refrigeration guidelines: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Honestly, it's best fresh, but it's still great the next day.
- Freezing options (if applicable): I wouldn't recommend freezing this one. The avocado gets a bit weird. Just sayin'.
- Reheating instructions: No need to reheat! This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold. That's the beauty of healthy salad recipes .
Variations to Keep Things Interesting
Want to mix it up? I’m your gal. Let's tweak it, yeah?
- Dietary adaptations: Make it vegan by swapping honey for agave nectar or maple syrup. Easy peasy!
- Seasonal ingredient swaps: Use roasted butternut squash in the fall for a cosy twist. Or grilled peaches instead of tomatoes in the summer, why not? This is an easy pasta salad recipe format, really!
Nutrition Basics: Keeping it Real
Let's be honest, we all like to know what we're putting in our bodies, right?
- Simplified nutrition information: Roughly 250 calories per serving. Not bad, eh? Full of healthy fats and vitamins.
- Key health benefits: Avocado is packed with good fats, and corn gives you fibre. Plus, it's delicious. That's a health benefit in itself! It can be adapted as a coleslaw recipe easy , or even include some of the grilled vegetable sides .
So, there you have it. My take on this glorious Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad. Get grilling and enjoy what could be one of the best bbq side dishes you will ever make.
You got this. Trust me. Looking for bbq side dish ideas ? Look no further!. Even some bbq corn recipes can be easily added!.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good BBQ side dishes to serve with this Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad?
This salad plays nicely with classic BBQ fare! Think coleslaw for a creamy contrast, or a simple potato salad. It also pairs well with grilled meats like chicken, fish, or steak, acting as a vibrant counterpoint to richer flavors. You could even throw some baked beans on the side for a real American feast!
How can I prevent the avocado in this salad from turning brown?
Avocado browning is a common issue, but easily tackled. The key is acid! Toss the diced avocado with a little extra lime juice from the dressing as soon as you've chopped it. The lime juice acts as a natural preservative and will keep your avocado looking fresh and green for longer.
Remember though, nothing is perfect so prepare the salad as close to serving time as possible.
Can I make this Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad ahead of time?
While this salad is best served fresh, you can prep some components in advance. Grill the corn and make the dressing ahead of time and store separately. Then, just before serving, combine everything with the freshly diced avocado and tomatoes to prevent them from getting soggy. Nobody wants a soggy salad, right?
What are some variations I can make to this salad to suit different tastes?
Loads! If you like a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeño to the dressing. For a vegan option, swap the honey in the dressing for agave nectar or maple syrup. You can also add other grilled veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for a more substantial salad.
Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own, chef!
I'm looking for easy BBQ side dishes, is this recipe simple enough for a beginner?
Absolutely! This Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad is designed to be foolproof. The most "complicated" part is grilling the corn, but even that is pretty straightforward. Just keep an eye on it, turn it occasionally, and you'll be golden.
Most of the work is just chopping and mixing, so it's perfect for beginner cooks wanting to impress at their next BBQ.
How long will leftovers of these BBQ side dishes keep in the fridge?
Leftovers are great, but keep in mind that the avocado will continue to soften and may brown slightly. Ideally, consume leftovers within 1-2 days for the best texture and flavour. Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it as fresh as possible. It's a race against time, but you can win it!
Grilled Corn And Avocado Salad With Zesty Lime D

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 250 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 6g |