Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette

Wonderful grilled corn salad with avocado, tangy goat cheese, and a sweet & spicy hot honey vinaigrette. This fresh, easy grilled corn salad comes together in a few simple steps and makes the perfect summer lunch or side dish! Enjoy it on its own or add your favorite protein for a full meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: The combination of grilled corn, ripe avocado, and cherry tomatoes creates a vibrant dish that bursts with flavor.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal cooking time, this salad is perfect for both beginners and seasoned chefs.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a light lunch or as a side at barbecues and gatherings; it pairs well with various proteins.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients and healthy fats, this salad will keep you satisfied without weighing you down.
• Unique Flavor Profile: The hot honey vinaigrette adds a delightful kick, balancing the creaminess of avocado and goat cheese.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making the grilled corn salad, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Large bowl
• Mason jar or small mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor on the corn that elevates the salad.
• Large Bowl: Provides enough space to mix all your ingredients without spilling.
• Mason Jar: Great for shaking up your hot honey vinaigrette quickly and efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Grilled Corn:

• 4 ears of corn
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• Freshly ground salt and pepper

For the Salad:

• 1 ½ cups halved cherry tomatoes (heirloom or grape work best!)
• 1 avocado, diced
• ⅓ cup goat cheese crumbled
• ¼ cup diced red onion or substitute green onion
• 6 large leaves basil, julienned

Hot Honey Vinaigrette:

• 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Pinch of cayenne pepper OR ½ teaspoon hot sauce of choice
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar (or substitute fresh lime juice)
• ¼ teaspoon dijon mustard
• ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
• Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

1. Drizzle the corn with avocado oil and rub it all over.
2. Season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Place the corn directly on the grill. Turn occasionally until charred and cooked through (about 20 minutes).

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Allow corn to cool slightly. Cut kernels from the cob into a large bowl.
2. Add halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, crumbled goat cheese, diced red onion, and julienned basil to the bowl.
3. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Make the Hot Honey Vinaigrette

1. In a mason jar or small bowl, combine honey and cayenne pepper (or hot sauce).
2. Microwave for 10-15 seconds until warm.
3. Remove from microwave; add olive oil, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Shake well if using a jar or whisk together in a bowl until combined. Adjust spice levels if desired.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Pour the hot honey vinaigrette over the assembled salad.
2. Toss gently to ensure even coating.
3. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

1. Enjoy your grilled corn salad right away! If preparing ahead of time, store avocado and goat cheese separately until serving for best freshness.

How to Serve Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette

This grilled corn salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to complement your meal or enjoy it as a light dish on its own.

As a Standalone Lunch

• A refreshing option for lunch, this salad is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a satisfying choice.

With Grilled Chicken or Turkey

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken or turkey for a protein-packed meal that enhances the flavors of the corn and avocado.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the corn salad on a bed of mixed greens for added texture and freshness. This adds a crisp element to each bite.

As a Topping for Tacos

• Use this salad as a vibrant topping for tacos. The sweet corn and creamy avocado will elevate any taco recipe.

With Toasted Bread or Crackers

• Serve alongside toasted bread or crackers for a delightful appetizer or snack that’s easy to enjoy.

How to Perfect Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette

Achieving the best grilled corn salad requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh, in-season corn and ripe avocados will enhance the overall taste of your salad significantly.
• Grill Corn Properly: Ensure the grill is preheated well before adding the corn. This helps achieve that perfect charred flavor.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Don’t hesitate to tweak the amount of cayenne pepper or hot sauce based on your heat preference for a customized experience.
• Serve Immediately: For optimal flavor and texture, serve the salad right after preparation. The ingredients are best when fresh.
• Store Separately: If preparing in advance, keep avocado and goat cheese separate until ready to serve. This prevents browning and maintains freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette

Pairing this grilled corn salad with complementary side dishes can create a delightful dining experience. Here are some great options.

1. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs makes an excellent pairing that adds protein and fiber.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring additional flavors and textures that work beautifully together.
3. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread offers a delicious contrast and is perfect for soaking up any vinaigrette left on your plate.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and beans provide a hearty side that complements the salad’s freshness.
5. Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad dressed with vinegar adds refreshing crunch and balances out the richness from goat cheese.
6. Chickpea Salad: A zesty chickpea salad brings additional nutrients along with vibrant flavors that enhance your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette even more delicious.

• Skipping the grilling step: Grilling the corn adds a smoky flavor that enhances the salad. Always grill until it’s nicely charred for maximum taste.
• Not letting the corn cool: If you add hot corn directly to the salad, it can wilt other ingredients like avocado and goat cheese. Allow it to cool first for a fresher dish.
• Omitting seasoning: A sprinkle of salt and pepper on the grilled corn is essential. Don’t skip this step to ensure your salad is well-flavored.
• Making vinaigrette too spicy: Adjust the heat in your vinaigrette to match your preference. Start with less cayenne or hot sauce; you can always add more later.
• Adding avocado too early: For the best texture, add diced avocado just before serving. This will prevent browning and keep it fresh.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep separate from dressing if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette

• This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the avocado and cheese, which do not thaw well.
• It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat in a baking dish for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feta or queso fresco can be used instead of goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this salad vegan?

To make it vegan, simply omit the goat cheese and substitute honey with maple syrup in the vinaigrette.

What can I serve with Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or as part of a larger summer spread.

How do I customize this salad?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers, or include proteins such as grilled turkey or beef for a heartier meal.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette is a delightful blend of flavors perfect for summer lunches or side dishes. Its versatility allows you to customize it easily according to your preferences. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!