This vibrant salad is a delicious mix of sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado. It’s super fresh and perfect for a warm day or any meal!
You can whip it up in no time and feel like a kitchen pro. I love serving it with grilled chicken or just enjoying it on its own—so refreshing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn on the cob adds a sweet crunch. If it’s not in season, frozen corn works just fine; just thaw it before adding. Canned corn is another option, but be sure to rinse and drain to reduce the saltiness.
Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems are juicy and sweet. Grape tomatoes can be a great substitute if you can’t find cherries. Just remember to cut them in half for even flavor distribution!
Avocados: Ripe avocados create a creamy texture. If you need a substitute, you could use diced mango for a sweet twist, though it won’t give the creaminess.
Red Onion: Red onion adds a nice bite. Sweet onions can work as a milder alternative. If you prefer less onion flavor, try using green onions instead.
How Do I Safely Cut Fresh Corn Off the Cob?
Cutting corn off the cob can be tricky, but with the right technique, it’s easy! Start by placing the corn upright on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice downwards to remove the kernels while pressing firmly. Keep rotating the cob to get all the kernels off. If you find the corn slipping, try securing it with a kitchen towel for better grip.
- Stand the ear of corn upright on a cutting board.
- Use a sharp knife to slice downwards, removing the kernels.
- Be careful of your fingers, and take your time to make even cuts.
- Collect the kernels in a bowl for easy mixing later.
These handy tips will make your fresh corn tomato avocado salad both easy and enjoyable to prepare. Happy cooking!
Fresh Corn Tomato Avocado Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 3 ears fresh corn, kernels removed (or about 2 cups fresh/frozen corn kernels)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Dressing:
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy to put together, and if you let it chill for 20-30 minutes, the flavors will blend beautifully, enhancing the taste of every ingredient.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, start by removing the kernels. Stand each ear of corn upright on a cutting board, holding it steady. Carefully slice downward with a sharp knife to remove the kernels, letting them fall into a bowl. If you’re using frozen corn, just make sure it’s thawed before adding it.
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the corn kernels, quartered cherry tomatoes, diced avocados, and thinly sliced red onion. The colors and textures already start looking beautiful!
3. Add Fresh Herbs:
Sprinkle the chopped cilantro into the bowl. This fresh herb brings a punch of flavor and goes wonderfully with the other ingredients.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This dressing will bring everything together, so mix it well until combined.
5. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together with a spoon, being careful not to mash the avocados. You want them to stay chunky for that creamy texture!
6. Season and Taste:
Take a moment to taste your salad and adjust the seasoning. If you want more tang, add a bit more lime juice, or season with extra salt and pepper as desired.
7. Serve or Chill:
Enjoy the salad right away for a super fresh flavor! If you’d like, cover and chill it in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to let those flavors meld together even more. Either way, it’s delicious!
Enjoy this fresh, colorful, and healthy salad as a perfect side or light lunch!
FAQ About Fresh Corn Tomato Avocado Salad
Can I Use Canned or Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using canned corn, be sure to rinse and drain it to remove excess salt. For frozen corn, just thaw it beforehand. Both options are convenient and will work beautifully in this salad!
How Do I Keep Avocado from Browning?
To minimize browning, try adding the diced avocado just before serving. You can also sprinkle a little extra lime juice on them to help preserve their vibrant color. Using ripe avocados will also help, as they brown more slowly than under-ripe ones.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, but for the best texture, it’s best to add the avocado right before serving. You can prepare the corn, tomatoes, onion, and dressing ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Mix everything together right before you enjoy it!
What Are Some Good Serving Suggestions?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or tacos. It also works well as a light lunch option on its own or served with pita chips or tortilla chips for some crunch!
