This Fresh Summer Corn Salad is a colorful dish packed with sweet corn, crunchy veggies, and creamy avocado! It’s so easy to whip up, perfect for hot days.
Honestly, I can’t resist scooping extra avocado on top! It just makes everything more delicious. Serve it chilled and watch it disappear at your next gathering! 🥑✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn is the star of this salad! If it’s out of season, you can easily switch to frozen corn. I prefer frozen corn for convenience; just make sure to thaw it well.
Avocado: A ripe avocado adds creaminess that balances the salad so well. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use diced cucumber instead.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and color. You can substitute grape tomatoes or even regular tomatoes diced into smaller pieces. If you can’t find fresh tomatoes, canned ones could work in a pinch!
Red Onion: For a milder taste, use green onions or even shallots. If you want a sweeter option, try using a sweet onion like Vidalia.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings brightness. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a good alternative, though it will alter the flavor a bit.
How Do I Perfectly Combine Flavors in This Salad?
Mixing the ingredients in a way that enhances their flavors is crucial. Start by combining the corn, tomatoes, avocado, onion, and cilantro gently. This avoids mashing the avocado, which keeps your salad looking fresh.
- Whisk together lime juice and olive oil in a separate bowl before adding. This helps evenly distribute the dressing.
- Gently fold the dressing into the salad; it allows the flavors to blend without breaking down the avocado too much.
- Letting the salad chill for at least 30 minutes lets the ingredients absorb the dressing and meld their flavors beautifully.
How to Make Fresh Summer Corn Salad With Creamy Avocado
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 ears fresh corn, kernels removed (or about 3 cups frozen corn, thawed)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 10 minutes of preparation time, plus at least 30 minutes of chilling in the fridge to let the flavors mix. In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes before you can dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, start by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the ears of corn and let them cook for 3-5 minutes. After boiling, cool the corn under cold water and then carefully cut the kernels off the cob. If you’re using frozen corn, just ensure it’s thawed and ready to go.
2. Mix the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your corn kernels with the halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, thinly sliced red onions, and chopped cilantro. This colorful mixture is the heart of your salad!
3. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the olive oil and lime juice over your salad mix. With a gentle touch, toss everything together so the dressing coats the ingredients evenly while keeping the avocado pieces intact.
4. Season It Up:
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Taste it to see if you want more lime juice or seasoning—this is all about your preference!
5. Chill for Flavor:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Put it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
6. Ready to Serve:
Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss again to mix it up. If desired, sprinkle a little extra cilantro or add a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.
Enjoy this vibrant, fresh salad as a light side dish or a healthy snack! Perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you crave something delicious and fresh!
FAQ: Fresh Summer Corn Salad With Creamy Avocado
Can I Use Canned Corn Instead of Fresh or Frozen?
Yes, you can use canned corn if fresh or frozen is unavailable! Just drain and rinse the corn before adding it to the salad. This will help reduce excess sodium and improve the overall flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Avocado may brown slightly, so it’s best to eat the salad fresh. If you notice browning, simply give it a gentle toss, and the flavor will still be delicious!
What Can I Substitute for Avocado?
If you’d like to skip the avocado, you can substitute diced cucumber or sweet bell peppers for a crunchy texture. While it will change the creaminess, it will still be a tasty salad!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a day in advance; just add the avocado right before serving to keep it fresh and creamy. This helps all the flavors meld beautifully!
