This Fresh Corn Tomato Avocado Salad is a burst of summer flavors! With sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado, it’s super refreshing. Perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish at a barbecue!
I just love how colorful it looks on my table! Plus, it takes only minutes to whip up, which is great when I want something light and tasty without the fuss. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Corn: I recommend using fresh corn on the cob for the sweetest flavor. However, if you’re short on time, canned or frozen corn works too. Just make sure to drain and rinse the canned corn.
Tomatoes: Cherry or grape tomatoes add sweetness and color. For a twist, you could use heirloom tomatoes, chopped into bite-sized pieces, for even more flavor.
Avocados: Ripe avocados provide creaminess. If you can’t find ripe ones, try using sliced cucumbers or a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt for a different texture.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens the salad, but you can substitute it with parsley or omit it if you’re not a fan!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is key for that zesty kick. If you don’t have lime, lemon juice works as a substitute, though it will taste a bit different.
How Do I Ensure the Avocado Stays Fresh in My Salad?
A common concern is keeping the avocado from browning too quickly. To help with this:
- Use ripe but slightly firm avocados. They will hold their shape better.
- Coat the avocado pieces with lime juice immediately after cutting. This will help slow down browning.
- Assemble the salad close to serving time. If making ahead, store the avocado separately and mix it in just before serving.
Fresh Corn Tomato Avocado Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 3 ears of fresh corn (or about 2 cups fresh corn kernels)
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, and diced
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For The Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you decide to sauté the corn, add an extra 5 minutes. It’s quick and easy, making it a breeze for lunch or a light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
Start by husking the corn and removing the silk. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the kernels off the cob. You should end up with about 2 cups of fresh corn kernels. If you prefer, you can also use pre-cooked corn from a can or frozen corn, just make sure to drain it or thaw it first.
2. Optional: Sauté the Corn:
If you’d like a slightly toasted flavor, heat a small pan over medium heat and add the corn kernels with a tiny bit of oil. Lightly sauté for about 3-5 minutes until the corn starts to brown slightly. This is totally optional—fresh, raw corn is wonderfully crunchy and bright!
3. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, add the corn (whether raw or sautéed), halved tomatoes, diced avocado, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro. It’s a colorful mix already!
4. Add the Dressing:
Drizzle the olive oil and fresh lime juice over the salad. Lime juice not only adds flavor but also helps keep the avocado from browning.
5. Toss Together:
Gently toss all the ingredients together to ensure they are evenly coated with the dressing, while being careful not to mash the avocado too much. It should look beautiful and vibrant!
6. Season and Serve:
Finish by seasoning the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately for the best flavor, or you can chill it in the fridge for up to 30 minutes before serving.
This vibrant salad is not only fresh and creamy, but it also brings a taste of summer right to your table!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Canned or Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! You can use canned sweet corn or frozen corn kernels instead of fresh. Just make sure to drain and rinse canned corn, or thaw and drain frozen corn before using it in the salad.
How Can I Prevent Avocado from Browning?
To keep your avocado looking fresh, coat the diced pieces with lime juice immediately after cutting. If you’re prepping ahead of time, store the avocado separately and mix it in just before serving.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to add the avocado and dress the salad right before serving to maintain the fresh taste and texture. If necessary, chill the salad in the fridge for up to 30 minutes before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown, but the salad should still taste great. To refresh the flavors, give it a good toss before serving!
