Description
A bright and breezy Summer Corn Salad with Fresh Herbs & Avocado, bursting with crisp textures and vibrant flavors from sweet corn, zesty herbs, creamy avocado, and juicy cherry tomatoes. Perfect for picnics, light lunches, or as a colorful side to elevate any meal with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 2 ears of corn)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh herbs (cilantro, parsley, or basil), finely chopped
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (or lemon juice as substitute)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Additions
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (for a spicy kick)
- ¼ cup crumbled feta, cotija, or goat cheese (for cheesy touch)
- 1 cup grilled corn kernels (optional alternative to raw corn)
- ½ cup diced cucumber, bell peppers, or radishes (for extra crunch)
- 2 tablespoons toasted pumpkin seeds or pine nuts (for added texture)
Instructions
- Prepare the Corn: Husk the fresh corn and slice the kernels off the cob. Use them raw for a crisp bite, or quickly grill or sauté the kernels for a smoky, charred flavor and added depth.
- Chop the Vegetables and Herbs: Dice the ripe avocado and halve the cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion and finely chop your choice of fresh herbs to maximize flavor release.
- Combine Ingredients in a Bowl: Gently toss the corn, avocado, tomatoes, onions, and herbs together in a large mixing bowl. This ensures all flavors begin to marry without mashing the avocado.
- Make the Dressing: Whisk together fresh lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper until emulsified. The lime juice brightens the flavors while the olive oil adds silkiness.
- Dress and Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss lightly but thoroughly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately or chill for later.
Notes
- Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure for the creamiest texture.
- Use fresh herbs instead of dried for a vibrant, aromatic flavor.
- Prepare and combine ingredients just before serving to prevent avocado browning and keep vegetables fresh.
- Gently toss the salad to avoid breaking down avocado chunks and mushing the salad.
- Adjust the acidity by adding more lime juice if you prefer a brighter, tangier salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: summer corn salad, avocado salad, fresh herbs salad, easy summer recipe, gluten-free salad, vegan salad, healthy summer side dish