Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad

Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion that calls for a fresh, easy salad. This delightful salad features sweet corn, creamy avocado, and a medley of herbs that will surely impress your guests. It’s quick to prepare and packed with nutrition, making it an ideal choice for potlucks, cookouts, or simply as a refreshing side dish to accompany your meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation – With just 30 minutes needed from start to finish, you can whip up this salad in no time.
• Flavor-packed – The combination of fresh herbs and toasted pumpkin seeds adds a burst of flavor and crunch.
• Versatile Dish – Enjoy it as a side at barbecues or serve it as a light main course; it’s perfect for any meal.
• Nutritious Ingredients – Loaded with healthy fats from avocados and fiber from corn, this salad is both satisfying and wholesome.
• Vegan-Friendly Option – Easily adaptable for plant-based diets by omitting cheese or using dairy-free alternatives.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large cast-iron skillet or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large cast-iron skillet or grill pan: Perfect for charring corn evenly for maximum flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the fresh ingredients effortlessly.
• Whisk: Helps you achieve a smooth dressing by blending all components seamlessly.

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Ingredients

Fiesta Avocado Corn Salad with fresh herbs, jalapeño, toasted pumpkin seeds, and creamy dressing. A slam-dunk summer side dish, this 30-minute salad will be the star of any cookout or potluck.

For the Salad

• 5 ears of corn, husked
• 2 medium (or 3 small) ripe avocados, peeled and cut into small cubes
• 1 jalapeño, seeds and ribs removed, finely chopped
• 1 small shallot, thinly sliced into rings (about 3 to 4 Tbsp.)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
• 3 Tbsp. fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup roasted, salted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
• 3 to 4 Tbsp. crumbled Cotija cheese (sub feta or goat cheese)

For the Dressing

• 4 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 3 Tbsp. rice vinegar
• 2 Tbsp. mayonnaise
• 1 grated garlic clove
• 3/4 tsp. ground sumac (sub paprika)
• 3/4 tsp. kosher salt, divided
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper, divided

How to Make Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad

Step 1: Char the Corn

1. Add 1 Tbsp. of the olive oil to a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Once hot, add 3 ears of corn, rolling them in oil.
3. Let sit undisturbed for 4 minutes until the bottoms are lightly charred.
4. Toss the corn and continue cooking in 3-minute intervals until charred to your liking (about 12 minutes total).
5. Set aside to cool while keeping the remaining two ears of corn raw for added texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a bowl, combine the remaining 3 Tbsp. olive oil, rice vinegar, mayonnaise, grated garlic, sumac (or paprika), 1/4 tsp. salt, and 1/4 tsp. black pepper.
2. Whisk everything together until well combined.
3. Stir in sliced shallots and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Once the charred corn is cool enough to handle, carefully cut the kernels from the cob and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
2. Cut kernels from the remaining two ears of raw corn and add them to the bowl along with diced avocado, jalapeño, basil, mint, pumpkin seeds, Cotija cheese (if using), remaining salt (1/2 tsp.), and black pepper (1/4 tsp.).
3. Pour dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Garnish with extra herbs, seeds, and cheese if desired before serving.

Enjoy your Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad as a refreshing addition to any meal!

How to Serve Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad

Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you are hosting a cookout, attending a potluck, or simply enjoying a family dinner, this salad pairs well with various meals and occasions.

As a Standalone Dish

• It makes for a refreshing light lunch on warm days. Enjoy it chilled for maximum flavor.

With Grilled Meats

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken or beef for a hearty meal. The flavors complement each other beautifully.

On Tacos or Burritos

• Use the salad as a topping for tacos or burritos. It adds a fresh crunch that balances the richness of the fillings.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Serve the salad in large lettuce leaves for a low-carb option. This creates a fun and interactive eating experience.

As an Appetizer

• Scoop the salad onto tortilla chips for a delightful appetizer. It’s perfect for sharing at gatherings.

How to Perfect Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad

To create the best version of Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh corn, ripe avocados, and vibrant herbs enhance the flavor profile significantly.

• Adjust Seasoning – Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad. Feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or acid levels to match your preference.

• Let It Chill – Allowing the salad to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

• Customize Your Herbs – Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or parsley based on your taste preferences.

• Add Protein – For extra nutrition, consider adding some cooked quinoa or black beans as an additional protein source.

Best Side Dishes for Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad

This vibrant salad pairs wonderfully with many side dishes, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Marinated chicken skewers add a protein-packed element that complements the freshness of the salad.

2. Quinoa Pilaf – A nutty quinoa pilaf provides a wholesome grain option that pairs nicely with the flavors of corn and avocado.

3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables bring out earthy notes that balance well with the vibrant salad ingredients.

4. Black Bean Soup – A hearty black bean soup offers warmth and depth, making it an ideal companion to this refreshing dish.

5. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and veggies add variety to your meal without overpowering the salad.

6. Crispy Roasted Potatoes – These golden-brown potatoes provide satisfying crunchiness alongside the creamy texture of the salad.

7. Zucchini Noodles – Light zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil make for a refreshing, low-carb side that matches well with any summer meal.

8. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to savory dishes, enhancing your overall dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using Overripe Avocados: Overripe avocados can make the salad mushy. Choose ripe but firm avocados for the best texture.
• Not Charring the Corn Properly: Under-charring or overcooking corn can affect flavor. Aim for a nice char on three of the ears to enhance sweetness while keeping two ears raw for crunch.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add brightness and flavor. Don’t skip them; they elevate the dish significantly.
• Ignoring Seasoning Levels: Proper seasoning is key. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper based on your preference.
• Making Dressing Too Early: Preparing the dressing too far in advance can cause flavors to dull. Make it just before serving for vibrant taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store remaining salad in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Freezing Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh; freezing is not recommended due to avocado texture changes.

Reheating Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place salad in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (30 seconds), stirring in between until warm. Be cautious with avocado!
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad?

Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad is a vibrant side dish featuring corn, avocado, fresh herbs, jalapeño, and a creamy dressing. It’s perfect for summer gatherings!

Can I customize my Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like black beans, cherry tomatoes, or different types of cheese to suit your taste.

How long does Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad last in the fridge?

The salad lasts about 2 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! You can prepare all components ahead of time and mix them just before serving for freshness.

What can I serve with Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or as part of a larger potluck spread.

Final Thoughts

Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its bright flavors make it a standout side dish or light lunch option. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand!