This vibrant grilled corn and avocado salad, tossed in a creamy feta dressing, is the perfect summer side dish or light lunch. The sweet char of the corn perfectly complements the creamy avocado and tangy feta, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. This recipe is easy to adapt to your taste preferences and available ingredients, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Let's dive into the delicious details!
What Makes This Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad Special?
This salad goes beyond the ordinary. The grilling process adds a smoky depth to the corn, elevating its natural sweetness. The creamy avocado provides a rich texture and healthy fats, while the feta dressing offers a briny, tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the corn. The combination of textures and flavors is truly unforgettable. We've also focused on creating a recipe that's both flavorful and healthy, perfect for those mindful of their diet.
Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
For the Salad:
- 2 ears of corn, shucked
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional, for added heat)
For the Feta Dressing:
- 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions: A Simple, Step-by-Step Guide
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Grill the Corn: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the corn, turning occasionally, until kernels are slightly charred and tender, about 8-10 minutes. Let cool slightly, then cut the kernels off the cob.
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Prepare the Dressing: In a food processor or blender, combine the feta cheese, olive oil, lime juice, water, and garlic. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed.
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Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the grilled corn, diced avocado, red onion, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using).
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Dress and Serve: Pour the feta dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine. Serve immediately or chill for later. This salad tastes even better after sitting for a bit, allowing the flavors to meld.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can prepare the components of the salad (grilled corn, diced avocado, etc.) ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the salad and add the dressing just before serving to prevent the avocado from browning and the salad from becoming soggy.
What other vegetables can I add to this salad?
Feel free to get creative! Bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), cucumber, zucchini, or black beans would all be delicious additions.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
While feta cheese is a perfect match for the other flavors in this salad, you could experiment with other salty cheeses like goat cheese or cotija. The flavor profile will change slightly, but it should still be delicious.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians/vegans?
This salad is naturally vegetarian. To make it vegan, simply replace the feta cheese with a vegan feta alternative or another vegan cheese.
How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
To prevent avocado browning, toss it with a little bit of lime juice after dicing it. This will help to maintain its vibrant green color and fresh taste.
Tips for Success: Elevating Your Salad Game
- Don't overcook the corn: Aim for slightly charred kernels that are still tender and juicy.
- Use ripe avocados: Ripe avocados will have a creamy texture and better flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the dressing and salad before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and lime juice to your preference.
- Garnish generously: A sprinkle of extra cilantro or a drizzle of olive oil will elevate the presentation and add extra flavor.
This grilled corn and avocado salad with feta dressing is a versatile and delicious recipe that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures, and impress your friends and family with this simple yet elegant dish.
