This vibrant grilled corn and avocado salad, tossed in a creamy feta dressing, is the perfect summer side dish or light meal. Sweet grilled corn, creamy avocado, and a tangy feta dressing create a symphony of flavors and textures that are sure to impress. This recipe is easy to make, adaptable to your taste, and guaranteed to become a summertime staple.
What Makes this Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad Special?
This recipe stands out because it balances the sweetness of grilled corn with the richness of avocado and the salty tang of feta. The grilling process adds a delightful smoky char to the corn, enhancing its natural sweetness. The feta dressing isn't just a simple vinaigrette; it's a creamy, flavorful sauce that coats every ingredient perfectly, binding the salad together beautifully. Finally, the recipe is easily customizable – feel free to add your favorite vegetables, proteins, or herbs to personalize it to your liking.
How to Grill Corn for the Perfect Char
Grilling corn on the cob is simple, but a few tips will ensure perfectly charred kernels:
- Choose the right corn: Select corn that's in season and feels heavy for its size. This indicates it's juicy and sweet.
- Remove the husks (partially or fully): You can leave the husks on and grill directly, or remove them for easier grilling and more even charring. If removing the husks, leave the silks on to prevent the kernels from drying out.
- Oil and season: Brush the corn with oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Feel free to add other spices like chili powder or garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Grill time: Grill over medium heat, turning occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes, or until the kernels are tender and slightly charred.
Ingredients for the Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad with Feta Dressing
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 (or other fresh herbs like parsley or mint)
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 pepper to taste
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Grill the corn: Follow the instructions above for grilling the corn. Once grilled, let it cool slightly, then cut the kernels off the cob.
- Prepare the dressing: In a food processor or blender, combine the feta cheese, olive oil, lime juice, water, and minced garlic. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the dressing is too thick, add a little more water.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the grilled corn, diced avocado, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro.
- Dress the salad: Pour the feta dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Serve immediately: This salad is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It's best to assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the avocado from browning and the salad from becoming soggy. You can prepare the corn and dressing ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator.
What other vegetables can I add to this salad?
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, cucumber, or black beans. Roasted sweet potatoes would also be a delicious addition.
Can I use a different type of cheese in the dressing?
While feta cheese provides a unique tangy flavor, you could experiment with other soft cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta. However, the flavor profile will change.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this salad vegetarian/vegan?
The recipe as written is vegetarian. To make it vegan, simply substitute the feta cheese with a vegan feta alternative or a creamy vegan cheese.
Tips for Success
- Use ripe, flavorful avocados for the best taste and texture.
- Don't over-grill the corn; you want it tender but still slightly firm.
- Adjust the amount of lime juice and water in the dressing to your liking.
- Garnish with extra cilantro or a sprinkle of chili flakes for added flavor and visual appeal.
This grilled corn and avocado salad with feta dressing is a simple yet elegant dish perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or a light summer supper. Enjoy!
