Summer Corn Salad with Avocado: A Fresh and Vibrant Delight

Short Description
This Summer Corn Salad with Avocado is a vibrant, flavour-packed side dish combining sweet corn, creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and zesty lime. Ready in just 15 minutes, it is perfect for barbecues, picnics, or a light lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and easy: minimal prep and a one-bowl assembly mean you have this salad on the table in just 15 minutes.

2. Fresh, seasonal ingredients: celebrates summer’s best produce—sweet corn and ripe avocado—for maximum flavour.

3. Versatile: ideal as a side for grilled meats, a potluck contribution, or a light meal on its own.

4. Nutritious: packed with fibre, healthy fats, and vitamins for a satisfying yet wholesome dish.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 corn on the cob (or 400 g/14 oz canned corn, drained)

• 1 avocado, cut into large dice

• 200 g/7 oz cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 large tomatoes, diced)

• 2 shallots or scallions, finely sliced (or 1 small red onion, finely chopped)

• ⅓ cup finely chopped coriander/cilantro (or parsley)

• 2 tbsp lime juice (or 1½ tbsp lemon juice)

• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

directions

1. Cook the Corn
   Bring a large pot of water to the boil. Add the corn cobs and cook for 3 minutes. Drain and immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Once cool, cut the kernels off the cobs.

2. Combine Salad Ingredients
   In a large bowl, combine the corn kernels, diced avocado, halved tomatoes, sliced shallots, and chopped coriander.

3. Dress the Salad
   Drizzle the lime juice and olive oil over the mixture. Season generously with salt and pepper.

4. Toss and Serve
   Gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated. Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving for a cooler salad.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 5 minutes

• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Black bean boost: stir in 1 can of rinsed black beans for extra protein and texture.

• Cheesy twist: crumble in ⅓ cup of feta or cotija cheese to introduce a tangy element.

• Spicy kick: add diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

• Herb swap: replace coriander with chopped fresh dill or parsley for a different herbal note.

storage/reheating

• Refrigeration: store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Refreshing: avocado may darken over time; gently stir in an extra squeeze of lime juice before serving to restore its bright colour.

• Do not freeze: creamy ingredients like avocado do not freeze well and become mushy upon thawing.

FAQs

What is the best way to prevent avocado from browning?

Toss the avocado with a little extra lime juice immediately after dicing and store the salad in an airtight container to minimise exposure to air.

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes. Thaw and drain the frozen corn, then pat it dry before adding it to the salad to avoid excess moisture.

Is it okay to prepare this salad in advance?

You can assemble the salad up to one hour before serving, but for maximum freshness, add the avocado just before serving.

What can I use as a substitute for lime juice?

Lemon juice works equally well, imparting a similar bright acidity.

How can I make this salad more filling?

Stir in cooked quinoa or chickpeas to add bulk and additional protein.

Which proteins pair well with this salad?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or fish complement the flavours and textures of this salad beautifully.

How should I adjust the recipe for a larger gathering?

Increase all ingredient quantities proportionally. Corn and avocado scale easily; simply adjust the lime juice and olive oil to taste.

What herbs can I use if I do not like cilantro?

Fresh parsley, basil, or dill are all excellent substitutes for cilantro.

Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes. The recipe is fully vegan, provided you omit any optional cheese add-ins.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes. All ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this salad safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Conclusion

This Summer Corn Salad with Avocado delivers bright, fresh flavours in mere minutes—perfect for enjoying the best of summer produce. Whether as an accompaniment to grilled meats, a standout potluck dish, or a light main course, it promises to become a seasonal favourite. Enjoy the vibrant colours, delightful textures, and wholesome nutrition that make this salad a true celebration of summertime.