Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad is the perfect dish to brighten up your summer gatherings. This vibrant salad combines sweet grilled corn, fresh strawberries, creamy avocado, and a homemade honey mustard balsamic vinaigrette. It’s not only delicious but also versatile, making it suitable for picnics, barbecues, or as a refreshing side at any meal. The combination of flavors and textures will impress your guests and keep them coming back for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Colorful Presentation: The rainbow of ingredients makes this salad visually appealing and perfect for summer events.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with seasonal produce, this recipe highlights the best flavors of summer.
• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this salad in no time.
• Healthy Choice: This salad is loaded with nutrients, including vitamins from greens and healthy fats from avocado.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish; it pairs well with many grilled meats.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the preparation process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron grill pan: Provides high heat for perfect grill marks on corn while enhancing flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Ensures all ingredients can be combined easily without spilling.
• Whisk: Ideal for blending the vinaigrette ingredients smoothly.

Ingredients

Summertime special rainbow colored salad with grilled corn on the cob and a homemade honey mustard balsamic vinaigrette. Great for picnics and BBQs!

For the Salad

• 2 ears of sweet corn
• 2-3 cups spring mix baby greens
• 2-3 cups kale, roughly chopped
• 1 1/2 cups strawberries, diced
• 3 tablespoons shelled pistachios
• 1/4 cup blueberries
• 1/2 avocado, diced
• 2 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, roughly minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, roughly minced
• Fresh ground black pepper to taste

For the Vinaigrette

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 2 teaspoons stone ground mustard
• 1/8 teaspoon coarse salt

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad

Step 1: Grill the Corn

Preheat a cast iron grill pan at medium-high heat or an outdoor grill. Drizzle corn on the cob with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil and salt and pepper as desired. Using tongs:
1. Place the corn on the heated grill.
2. Cook each side until grill marks form on corn kernels, about 10 minutes total.
3. Remove from heat when done and let cool.
4. Slice corn kernels off the cob and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together all ingredients for the vinaigrette: olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, mustard, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine all ingredients for the salad including cooked corn kernels.
2. Drizzle with honey mustard vinaigrette.
3. Toss gently to combine everything evenly.
4. Serve immediately to enjoy freshness!

How to Serve Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad

This vibrant Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it on its own for a light, refreshing meal. This salad is packed with nutrients and flavors, making it satisfying enough as a standalone dish.

As a Side Salad

• Pair it with grilled chicken or fish. The sweet and tangy flavors complement the savory notes of your protein choice perfectly.

At Picnics and BBQs

• Bring this salad to outdoor gatherings. Its colorful presentation and fresh ingredients make it an instant hit at any summer event.

In a Wrap

• Use it as a filling for wraps. Spread some hummus or cream cheese on a tortilla, add the salad, and roll it up for a delightful lunch option.

With Toasted Bread

• Serve alongside toasted sourdough or baguette slices. The crunchiness of the bread pairs well with the creamy avocado and juicy strawberries.

How to Perfect Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad

Creating the perfect Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad takes just a few simple tips to elevate its taste and presentation.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh strawberries, corn, and greens. Fresh produce enhances flavor and texture.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust the seasoning. A little extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice can make a big difference.
• Add Protein: Consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein. This makes the salad more filling and nutritious.
• Customize It: Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or cheese. Almonds or feta can provide different textures and flavors.
• Chill Before Serving: Let the salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Serve Immediately: For best results, serve the salad right after mixing it with the vinaigrette. This keeps the greens crisp.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad

To make your meal even more delightful, consider these tasty side dishes that pair well with your Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad.

1. Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken breasts seasoned with herbs make a perfect protein partner.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A flavorful quinoa pilaf adds a nutty element that complements the sweetness of the salad.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Crispy roasted sweet potatoes provide a hearty side that balances the lightness of the salad.
4. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread brings an Italian flair and is great for soaking up any leftover dressing.
5. Vegetable Skewers: Colorful vegetable skewers add variety; grill them alongside your main dish for an easy prep option.
6. Fruit Platter: A fresh fruit platter creates a refreshing contrast to your meal, enhancing the fruity notes in your salad.
7. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw offers a crunchy texture that pairs nicely with the soft ingredients of your salad.
8. Hummus & Veggies: This snack is healthy and adds more freshness; serve with assorted raw vegetables for dipping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to ensure your salad turns out perfectly every time.

• Skipping the grilling step: Grilling the corn adds essential flavor. Don’t bypass this step; it enhances the overall taste of your salad.
• Using unripe avocados: An unripe avocado can ruin the texture. Always choose ripe avocados for a creamy consistency in your salad.
• Overdressing the salad: It’s tempting to pour on extra vinaigrette, but too much can overwhelm the ingredients. Start with a small amount and add more if needed.
• Neglecting to season properly: Lack of seasoning can lead to blandness. Remember to taste and adjust salt and pepper as desired.
• Not using fresh herbs: Dried herbs won’t give the same freshness. Always opt for fresh basil and mint for the best flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container to keep the salad fresh.

Freezing Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad

• Not recommended: Freezing this salad is not ideal due to the texture changes in avocados and greens.

Reheating Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm briefly without cooking further.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, about 15-20 seconds, just to take off the chill.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently, until just warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, simply omit the goat cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative.

Can I use frozen corn for Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad?

Yes, you can use frozen corn. Just thaw it and quickly sauté it for added flavor before adding it to your salad.

What can I substitute for pistachios in this salad?

If you don’t have pistachios, try sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts for a different crunch.

How long does Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad last in the fridge?

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can last up to 2 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I customize my Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other fruits like mango or peach, or swap out greens based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings. Its combination of flavors makes it versatile enough for picnics, BBQs, or as a light meal. Don’t hesitate to get creative with ingredients based on your taste preferences!