This vibrant grilled corn and avocado salad, tossed in a creamy feta dressing, is the perfect summer side dish or light meal. The smoky char of the grilled corn complements the creamy avocado and tangy feta beautifully, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and prep time, yet delivers maximum flavor impact. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this crowd-pleasing dish!
What Makes This Salad So Special?
This recipe isn't just your average corn salad. The grilling process adds a delightful smoky depth to the corn, elevating its natural sweetness. The ripe avocado provides a rich creaminess that balances the textures, while the feta dressing adds a salty, tangy twist that ties everything together perfectly. The combination of sweet, creamy, smoky, and tangy flavors creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients You'll Need:
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 (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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:
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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 feta cheese, olive oil, lime juice, water, and minced garlic. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You may need to add a little more water to achieve your desired consistency.
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Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the grilled corn, diced avocado, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro (if using). Pour the feta dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
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Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately or chill for later. This salad tastes even better the next day, allowing the flavors to meld.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the corn and the dressing ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the avocado from browning.
What other vegetables can I add to this salad?
Feel free to get creative! Bell peppers, cucumbers, jalapeños, or zucchini would all be delicious additions.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
While feta is ideal for its tangy, salty flavor, you could experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or queso fresco. However, keep in mind that the flavor profile will change.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians/vegans?
This recipe as written is vegetarian. To make it vegan, simply substitute the feta cheese with a vegan feta alternative.
How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
To prevent the avocado from browning, toss it with a little lime juice before adding it to the salad. You can also add it to the salad just before serving.
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?
While fresh corn is best for optimal flavor and texture, you can use frozen corn in a pinch. Make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding it to the salad. You may want to skip grilling the corn if using frozen.
This grilled corn and avocado salad with feta dressing is a truly delightful dish that is sure to become a summer favorite. Its simple yet elegant preparation and vibrant flavors make it perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or a light weeknight dinner. Enjoy!
