Summer-Perfect Grilled Corn Salad with a Tangy Twist

The sweet, smoky flavor of grilled corn combines perfectly with creamy avocado, tangy goat cheese, and a zesty hot honey vinaigrette in this summer salad. It’s a dish that bursts with fresh, seasonal ingredients and a delightful balance of sweet and spicy.

Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, looking for a fresh side dish, or just craving something light yet satisfying, this grilled corn salad delivers. It’s versatile, easy to customize, and will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Full Recipe:

  • For the grilled corn:
    • 4 ears of corn
    • 1 tablespoon avocado oil
    • Freshly ground salt and pepper
  • For the salad:
    • 1 ½ cups halved cherry tomatoes (heirloom cherry or grape tomatoes are ideal)
    • 1 avocado, diced
    • ⅓ cup goat cheese, crumbled (or substitute with feta)
    • ¼ cup diced red onion (or substitute with green onion)
    • 6 large basil leaves, julienned
  • For the hot honey vinaigrette:
    • 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or olive oil)
    • 1 tablespoon honey
    • Pinch of cayenne pepper (or ½ teaspoon hot sauce)
    • 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar (or substitute with fresh lime juice)
    • ¼ teaspoon Dijon mustard
    • ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
    • Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Drizzle the corn with oil and rub to coat evenly. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  3. Place the corn directly on the grill and turn occasionally until charred and cooked, about 20 minutes.
  4. Allow the corn to cool, then cut the kernels off the cob and transfer them to a large bowl. Add the tomatoes, avocado, goat cheese, red onion, and basil. Toss gently to combine.
  5. Prepare the vinaigrette: In a small bowl or mason jar, mix the honey and cayenne or hot sauce. Microwave for 10–15 seconds until warmed. Add oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and salt and pepper. Shake or whisk until well combined.
  6. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat. Adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
  7. Serve immediately or store in the fridge for up to 3 days. (For make-ahead: add avocado and goat cheese just before serving.)

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories: 167 kcal | Servings: 6

Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado and Hot Honey Vinaigrette

Grilled corn salad is a celebration of summer’s most iconic flavors. Bursting with smoky sweetness from perfectly charred corn, creamy avocado, and tangy goat cheese, this dish takes a fresh, modern twist with a hot honey vinaigrette that adds just the right amount of heat and sweetness. Whether served as a side dish at a summer BBQ, a light lunch, or a hearty dip with tortilla chips, this recipe offers versatility and flair for any occasion.

The Magic of Grilled Corn

Grilled corn is the star of this dish, offering a smoky, caramelized sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the other ingredients. By grilling the corn, its natural sugars are enhanced, creating a robust depth of flavor. The slight charring adds a visual appeal and a hint of smokiness, making the corn irresistibly delicious.

If you don’t have a grill, don’t worry! This salad can also be made by roasting the corn in the oven or sautéing it on the stovetop, achieving similar flavors with ease.

A Dressing That Steals the Show

The hot honey vinaigrette is a standout component that ties the entire salad together. Made with a blend of honey, cayenne pepper or hot sauce, and apple cider vinegar, it balances sweetness, heat, and acidity. This dressing is light but impactful, enhancing the natural flavors of the salad without overpowering them. It’s a dressing you’ll want to keep in your culinary repertoire for other salads or as a marinade for proteins.

Fresh, Vibrant Ingredients

This salad thrives on fresh, high-quality ingredients. The creamy avocado brings richness and a velvety texture that pairs well with the tangy goat cheese. Juicy cherry tomatoes add bursts of color and a touch of acidity, while fresh basil provides a fragrant, herbal note that elevates the entire dish.

For those looking to customize, the recipe is highly adaptable. You can swap goat cheese for feta or cotija, or use cilantro instead of basil for a slightly different flavor profile. The versatility of this salad makes it a go-to option for any fresh produce you have on hand.

Versatility for Any Meal

One of the best things about this grilled corn salad is its adaptability. It shines as a standalone dish, but it can easily be paired with proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for a more substantial meal. It also doubles as an appetizer when served with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos and nachos.

Its light yet satisfying nature makes it perfect for warm-weather gatherings, picnics, or even weeknight dinners when you’re short on time. The salad is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, catering to various dietary preferences.

How to Store and Make Ahead

This grilled corn salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’re preparing it ahead of time, consider leaving the avocado and goat cheese out until just before serving to maintain their freshness and texture. The dressing can be made in advance and stored separately, allowing you to assemble the salad quickly when needed.

Customizing for Personal Tastes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its ability to be tailored to individual tastes. For those who prefer more heat, increase the cayenne pepper or hot sauce in the vinaigrette. If you’re a fan of crunch, consider adding roasted pepitas or crushed tortilla chips as a garnish. Looking to make it heartier? Toss in black beans or cooked quinoa to transform the salad into a filling main course.

A Summer Crowd-Pleaser

This grilled corn salad isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s the kind of dish that sparks conversation and leaves people asking for seconds. The balance of textures, flavors, and vibrant colors makes it a showstopper at any table. Plus, its ease of preparation means you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of friends and family.

The Perfect Summer Dish

Grilled corn salad captures the essence of summer with its fresh, vibrant ingredients and bold flavors. It’s light yet satisfying, making it ideal for those warm days when you crave something refreshing and flavorful. With the hot honey vinaigrette providing a sweet and spicy kick, this salad becomes a standout dish that you’ll want to make again and again.

Conclusion

Grilled corn salad with avocado and hot honey vinaigrette is more than just a recipe; it’s a versatile dish that embodies the joy of summer cooking. From its smoky grilled corn to its creamy avocado and tangy cheese, every bite is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, enjoying it as a quick lunch, or using it as a topping for tacos, this salad is sure to impress.

Easy to customize, quick to prepare, and absolutely delicious, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their summer meals. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and savor the magic of this unforgettable salad!

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