Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

This Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is a vibrant dish that brings the essence of summer right to your table. It features sweet and smoky charred corn, creamy avocado, and juicy tomatoes, all drizzled with a zesty lemon Dijon dressing. This salad is perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or simply as a refreshing side dish to enjoy on warm days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of charred corn and fresh ingredients creates a delightful explosion of flavors in every bite.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps and simple ingredients, this salad can be ready in under an hour.
• Versatile Option: Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on its own, it fits well into any meal.
• Healthy Goodness: Packed with nutrients from vegetables and healthy fats from avocado, this salad is a guilt-free indulgence.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and enhance your overall experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Serving dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that smoky char on the corn, enhancing the flavor profile of the salad.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without making a mess.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when chopping vegetables, crucial for presentation.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for cutting.

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

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat.
2. Peel the red onions and cut them into thick slices. Brush one tablespoon of olive oil on both sides.
3. Husk the corn and brush lightly with olive oil.

Step 2: Grill the Corn and Onions

1. Place the corn and onion slices on the grill.
2. Grill for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally until charred and tender.
3. Remove them from the grill and let them cool slightly before slicing.

Step 3: Chop Ingredients

1. Cut the grilled onions into smaller pieces after they have cooled down.
2. Dice the avocado and halve the grape tomatoes.

Step 4: Mix the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine grilled corn, chopped onions, diced avocado, red grape tomatoes, yellow grape tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
2. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.

Step 5: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup until well combined.

Step 6: Assemble Your Salad

1. Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture.
2. Toss gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly before serving.

Enjoy this refreshing Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions at your next gathering!

How to Serve Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

This Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is versatile and delightful, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Refreshing Side for Grilled Proteins

• Pair with Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavors of the salad complement the char from grilled chicken beautifully.
• Serve alongside Beef Kebabs: The freshness of the salad cuts through the richness of beef, creating a balanced plate.

In a Wrap or Sandwich

• Stuff in a Tortilla: Use this salad as a filling in tortillas for a quick and delicious wrap.
• Layer in a Sandwich: Add it between slices of whole-grain bread for an easy lunch option.

As a Standalone Lunch

• Enjoy it with Whole Grain Crackers: This salad can be a fulfilling main dish when served with crunchy whole grain crackers on the side.
• Top on Lettuce Leaves: For a lighter option, serve the salad on crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing meal.

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.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh corn and ripe avocados to enhance flavor and texture.
• Add Spice: A pinch of cayenne pepper can add an extra kick without overpowering the dish.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Herbs: Try adding fresh basil or mint for an interesting twist on flavor.
• Adjust Dressing to Taste: Feel free to tweak the lemon juice and maple syrup levels based on your sweetness preference.

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

This vibrant salad pairs well with various side dishes that complement its fresh flavors. Here are some great options.

1. Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection add more smoky flavor.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf offers a wholesome addition that balances the lightness of the salad.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes bring sweetness and heartiness that harmonizes well with the salad.
4. Crispy Baked Chickpeas: These provide crunch and protein, making them an ideal companion for this dish.
5. Garlic Herb Rice: Fluffy rice infused with garlic and herbs pairs nicely without overshadowing your main dish.
6. Sautéed Green Beans: Bright green beans sautéed in olive oil add color and vibrancy next to the colorful salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing a salad. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when making your Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions.

• Bold ingredients: Using unripe avocados can lead to a bland taste. Always choose ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture.
• Bold corn preparation: Skipping the charring step can result in a less smoky flavor. Make sure to char the corn properly for that delicious depth.
• Bold seasoning: Overlooking salt and pepper can dull the flavors of your salad. Season generously, but taste as you go to ensure balance.
• Bold ingredient ratios: Adding too many tomatoes can overwhelm the other ingredients. Stick to the recommended amounts for harmony in every bite.
• Bold dressing mix: Not whisking the dressing well can leave you with uneven flavors. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients and enhance taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2-3 days for best freshness.
• Keep away from moisture to prevent sogginess.

Freezing Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

• Freezing is not recommended due to avocado texture changes.
• If needed, freeze only the charred corn separately.
• Consume frozen corn within 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes, ensuring even heating without cooking further.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warm; watch closely to avoid cooking.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring often.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What can I substitute for red onions?

You can use sweet onions or shallots as a milder alternative. Both will add flavor without overpowering your salad.

How do I pick ripe avocados?

Look for avocados that yield slightly when pressed but aren’t overly soft. Dark green skin often indicates ripeness.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Consider adding bell peppers or cucumbers for added crunch and flavor.

What is the best way to char corn?

Grill or roast corn on high heat until slightly blackened. This enhances its natural sweetness and adds smoky flavor.

How do I make this salad vegan?

This recipe is already plant-based! Just ensure all ingredients are free from animal products.

Final Thoughts

The Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is a refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings. Its blend of smoky, sweet flavors makes it versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the dressing to suit your taste preferences!