Name: Avocado Tomato Corn Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 ripe avocados (diced); 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes (halved); 1 to 1 1/2 cups corn kernels (fresh, grilled, or thawed from frozen); 1/4 red onion (thinly sliced); 2 to 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley (chopped); 2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 to 2 tablespoons lime or lemon juice; Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

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Nothing quite captures the essence of fresh summer produce like a vibrant Avocado Tomato & Corn Salad. The creamy texture of ripe avocado melds perfectly with the juicy burst of cherry tomatoes and the sweetness of fresh corn kernels, creating a delightful medley of flavors and textures. This salad is as visually appealing as it is delicious, boasting a colorful palette that brightens any table.

Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side dish to accompany your grilled meals or a light yet satisfying lunch, this salad delivers on all fronts. Its ease of preparation and vibrant taste make it a staple you’ll return to all season long.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The combination of creamy avocado with sweet corn and tangy tomatoes creates a perfect balance of flavors.
Bright and fresh ingredients make it ideal for warm-weather meals or as a light, healthy option.
Quick to prepare with minimal cooking, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.

Ingredients

Ripe avocados: Diced for creamy texture and rich flavor, providing healthy fats and smoothness to the salad.
Cherry or grape tomatoes: Halved to deliver juicy bursts of sweetness and vibrant color in every bite.
Corn kernels: Fresh, grilled, or thawed from frozen, adding natural sweetness and a pleasant crunch.
Red onion: Finely sliced to introduce a mild sharpness and slight crunch that complements the softer ingredients.
Fresh cilantro or parsley: Chopped herbs to add a bright, herbal note enhancing overall freshness.
Olive oil: Used as dressing base for richness and to help marry the flavors of all ingredients.
Lime or lemon juice: Provides acidity and zest, balancing the richness of avocado with a refreshing tang.
Salt & freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and tie together all the flavors beautifully.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by dicing the ripe avocados to ensure creamy, soft chunks in the salad. Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes for bite-sized juicy pieces, and slice the red onion thinly to keep its flavor balanced. Combine these fresh ingredients with the corn kernels in a large mixing bowl, setting the stage for the perfect texture and flavor harmony.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lime or lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This simple dressing brightens the salad while complementing the natural flavors of the vegetables and herbs, binding everything with a deliciously light finish.
Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the mixed ingredients and gently toss using a spatula or large spoon, careful not to mash the avocado. This step evenly distributes the tangy dressing and brings out the freshness, allowing each bite to have a balanced combination of flavors and textures.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy this salad right away to preserve the freshness and vibrant colors. It makes a refreshing side dish or a light meal, perfect for warm days when you want something quick and satisfying.

You Must Know

Grilled corn adds a smoky sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile wonderfully.
Substituting cilantro with parsley or basil can offer different yet equally delicious herb variations.
Adding ingredients like black beans, diced cucumbers, or crumbled queso fresco can boost texture and nutrition.
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or as part of a picnic spread.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator, preferably consuming within a day to maintain freshness. To prevent the avocado from browning, cover the surface tightly with plastic wrap before sealing.

Serving Suggestions

This salad works well as a colorful side to grilled chicken, fish, or steak. It also pairs nicely with tortilla chips for a casual snack or serves as a healthy light lunch option on its own.

Professional Tips

Choose avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure for optimal creaminess without mushiness.
For a smoky twist, char fresh corn on the grill before adding it to the salad.
Adjust lime or lemon juice amounts to taste, ensuring a bright but balanced acidity.
Gently fold the salad components to avoid bruising the avocado and maintain appealing texture.

FAQs

Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?: Yes, canned corn works in a pinch but rinse it well to reduce saltiness, and note the texture may be softer.
How do I keep the avocado from browning in the salad?: Use fresh lime or lemon juice and serve immediately, or store covered tightly to limit air exposure.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?: It’s best prepared fresh, but you can prep ingredients separately and toss just before serving to maintain the best texture.
Can I add protein to make it a full meal?: Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans are excellent options that complement the salad.
Which herbs work best if I don’t like cilantro?: Parsley or fresh basil provide great herbal flavors without overpowering the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?: Yes, the base ingredients are naturally vegan. Just avoid adding any dairy toppings like queso fresco.
Can this salad be made spicy?: Yes, add chopped jalapeño or a pinch of chili flakes to give it a subtle spicy kick.