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. Bursting with fresh flavors, this salad is perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress. The combination of sweet, smoky charred corn, creamy avocado, and tangy roasted red onions creates a delightful taste experience. Plus, it’s easy to make and packed with nutrients, making it a standout choice for health-conscious eaters.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of ingredients offers a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pairs perfectly with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, you can whip this up in just 45 minutes.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients and low in calories, it’s a guilt-free addition to any meal.
• Colorful Presentation: The vibrant colors make this salad visually appealing on any table.

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Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions, you’ll need a few essential tools that will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that smoky char on the corn, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to toss all your ingredients without spilling.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for cutting.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 2 red onions
• 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 heat.
2. Cut each red onion into thick slices.
3. Brush both sides of the onion slices with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
4. Place the onions on the grill and cook until soft and slightly charred, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let them cool.

Step 2: Char the Corn

1. While the onions cool, place the corn directly on the grill.
2. Grill the corn for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are charred.
3. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool before cutting off the kernels.

Step 3: Mix the Salad Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine grilled corn kernels, chopped roasted onions, halved 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 remaining olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl.
2. Toss gently to combine all flavors without mashing the avocado.

Step 6: Serve

1. Transfer your Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions to a serving dish.
2. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour to let flavors meld!

How to Serve Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

This Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy the salad on its own as a light lunch or dinner. The combination of flavors makes it satisfying without being heavy.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak for a heartier meal. The smokiness of the charred corn complements the grilled flavors beautifully.

In Tacos

• Use the salad as a filling for soft or hard-shell tacos. Add some shredded cheese and fresh lime for an extra punch.

On Toast

• Serve the salad on crusty bread or toast as an appetizer. This creates a delightful bruschetta-style dish that’s perfect for gatherings.

As a Side at Barbecues

• This salad works perfectly as a side dish for barbecues and potlucks. Its vibrant colors and fresh taste will be a hit among guests.

How to Perfect Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

Making this salad is easy, but these tips will help you elevate it to perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and ripe avocados make a significant difference in flavor and texture.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your salad before serving; adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice as needed for balance.
• Roast Onions Properly: Ensure your onions are caramelized well. This brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall taste.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill for about 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like basil or mint for an interesting twist.
• Store Correctly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge but consume within 1-2 days for best freshness.

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

Pairing sides with this Charred Corn Avocado Salad can enhance your meal even more. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with spices complement the fresh flavors of the salad.
2. Black Bean Quinoa: A protein-packed quinoa dish seasoned with lime and cilantro pairs well and adds more texture.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices offer a hearty contrast to the light salad.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted to perfection provide a warm and comforting side that balances out the cool salad.
5. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a favorite alongside salads, providing crunch and flavor.
6. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): This creamy, cheesy corn dish complements the charred corn in your salad while enhancing its Mexican flair.
7. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice with cilantro and lime brings brightness that echoes the flavors in your salad.
8. Cucumber Feta Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with feta cheese keeps things light while adding more variety to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are common mistakes to keep in mind:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough salt and pepper can lead to a bland salad. Always taste as you go and adjust the seasonings for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the onions: Cooking red onions too long can make them mushy. Roast them just until they’re tender and slightly charred for the best texture.
• Using unripe avocados: A hard avocado can spoil the creamy texture of your salad. Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly when pressed for optimal creaminess.
• Neglecting the dressing balance: An unbalanced dressing can overpower the fresh ingredients. Make sure to taste and adjust the acidity and sweetness according to your preference.
• Not grilling corn properly: If you don’t char the corn enough, it won’t have that smoky flavor. Ensure your grill is hot and rotate the corn for even charring.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

• Freezing is not recommended due to avocado texture changes.
• If necessary, freeze only the corn and onions, then mix with fresh ingredients when ready.

Reheating Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare most ingredients ahead of time but add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.

What can I substitute for cilantro in this salad?

If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try parsley or basil for a different flavor profile.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad makes a great meal prep option; just keep components separate until ready to eat.

How can I customize this Charred Corn Avocado Salad?

Feel free to add beans, cheese, or other veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is a delightful blend of flavors that captures summer’s essence. It’s versatile enough to serve at barbecues or enjoy as a light meal. Customize it with your favorite ingredients for an even more personal touch!