Name: Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 5 ears of corn, husked; 2 ripe avocados, peeled and cubed; 1 jalapeño, finely chopped; 1 small shallot, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped; 3 Tbsp. fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped; 1/4 cup roasted pumpkin seeds; 4 Tbsp. olive oil; 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

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Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. This salad combines sweet corn, creamy avocado, and fresh herbs for a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It’s not just visually appealing, but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for potlucks or cookouts. You’ll love how quickly this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, earning its spot as the highlight of any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients – The combination of ripe avocados, sweet corn, and fresh herbs creates an explosion of flavor.
Quick Preparation – Ready in just 30 minutes, this salad is perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Side Dish – It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can stand alone as a light meal.
Healthful Choice – Packed with nutrients, this salad is both satisfying and healthy.
Colorful Presentation – Its bright colors make it an eye-catching addition to any table.

Tools and Preparation

To make Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad, you’ll need a few essential tools that will streamline your cooking process.

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 – Ideal for charring the corn to enhance its sweetness.
Mixing bowl – Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spills.
Whisk – Ensures that your dressing is well-blended for maximum flavor.
Knife – A sharp knife makes cutting vegetables easier and safer.

Ingredients

To create your delicious Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad, gather the following ingredients:

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

Add 1 Tbsp. of the oil to a large cast-iron skillet (or grill pan) over medium-high heat.
Once hot, add 3 ears of corn, roll in oil, and let sit undisturbed for 4 minutes until bottoms are lightly charred.
Toss the corn and continue cooking in 3-minute intervals until charred to your liking (about 12 minutes total). Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a mixing 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.
Whisk until well combined.
Stir in thinly sliced shallots and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

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

Enjoy your refreshing Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad!

How to Serve Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad

Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad is a vibrant dish that can brighten any meal. Here are some suggestions on how to serve this delicious salad for various occasions.

For a Summer Barbecue

Serve chilled alongside grilled chicken or turkey for a refreshing complement.
Pair with a selection of grilled vegetables for a colorful plate.

As a Potluck Dish

Bring it in a large bowl topped with extra herbs for an appealing presentation.
Offer tortilla chips on the side for guests who want an extra crunch.

As a Light Lunch

Serve it over mixed greens for added nutrition and volume.
Add chickpeas or black beans for additional protein to make it more filling.

With Tacos or Burritos

Place it as a topping on tacos or inside burritos for added flavor and texture.
Use it as a salsa alternative, providing freshness to spicy dishes.

How to Perfect Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad

To ensure your Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad stands out, consider these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and ripe avocados elevate the flavors significantly.
Balance Flavors: Adjust seasoning as needed; taste before serving to balance acidity and saltiness.
Chill Before Serving: Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Customize Your Herbs: Feel free to mix in other fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley based on your preference.
Avoid Browning Avocados: Add lemon juice to diced avocados just before mixing into the salad to prevent browning.

Best Side Dishes for Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad

Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad pairs wonderfully with many side dishes. Here are some perfect options that will enhance your meal experience.

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated in spices, they offer a savory contrast to the salad’s freshness.
Cilantro Lime Rice: A simple yet flavorful dish that complements the salad well.
Vegetable Quesadillas: These cheesy treats provide additional flavor and can be made with any veggies you love.
Black Bean Soup: A hearty soup that adds warmth and texture, perfect alongside the salad’s crispness.
Baked Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness balances out the savory elements of the salad beautifully.
Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty grain dish adds protein and makes your meal more filling while keeping it light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating the perfect Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

Using old corn: Fresh sweet corn makes a big difference in flavor. Always choose corn that feels firm and has bright green husks.
Overcooking the corn: Avoid mushy kernels by cooking the corn just until lightly charred. This adds great texture and flavor.
Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh basil and mint elevate the salad’s taste. Don’t substitute dried herbs as they lack the vibrant flavor.
Ignoring seasoning: Proper seasoning is key. Taste your salad before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed for balance.
Not allowing flavors to meld: Letting the salad sit for a few minutes after mixing allows the flavors to combine beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad

Not recommended, as avocados do not freeze well and can become mushy when thawed.

Reheating Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), spread salad on a baking dish, and heat for about 10 minutes, keeping it moist with a little olive oil.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, stirring in between.
Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad.

Can I make Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just add avocado right before serving to keep it fresh.

What can I substitute for Cotija cheese in this recipe?

Feta or goat cheese works well as alternatives if you can’t find Cotija cheese.

How can I customize my Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad?

Feel free to add other ingredients like black beans, cherry tomatoes, or diced bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

Is this Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It holds up well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad is not only a refreshing summer side but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or toppings. Give it a try at your next gathering—you won’t be disappointed!