Name: Grilled Corn & Cherry Tomato Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 2 large ears fresh corn, husks and silk removed; 1 T. unsalted butter, melted; 1 medium red onion, halved and cut into thick slices; 1 lb. cherry or grape tomatoes, halved; 1 large avocado, chopped; ¼ c. fresh parsley, roughly chopped; 3 T. fresh lime juice; Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

Welcome to a culinary journey that’s about to introduce you to your new favorite dish: the Grilled Corn and Cherry Tomato Salad. This isn’t just any salad, it’s a symphony of fresh, vibrant flavors and textures. Imagine biting into plump cherry tomatoes, their sweet tanginess perfectly complimenting the smoky char of grilled corn.

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Every forkful is a celebration of summer’s bounty, a delightful dance of ingredients that are as nourishing as they are delicious. Curious? Read on and discover how this Grilled Corn and Cherry Tomato Salad could become a staple in your kitchen.

Why you’ll love this recipe

Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes and smoky grilled corn creates a flavor profile that is both complex and utterly satisfying.
Easy to Make: This recipe doesn’t require any complicated techniques or obscure ingredients. It’s simple, straightforward, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Healthy Choice: Packed with fresh vegetables, this salad is not only delicious but also loaded with essential nutrients. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
Versatile Dish: The Grilled Corn and Cherry Tomato Salad can be a standalone meal, a side dish, or even an appetizer. Its versatility makes it a valuable addition to any menu.

Ingredients

Fresh corn
Unsalted butter
Red onion
Cherry or grape tomatoes
Large avocado
Fresh parsley
Fresh lime juice
Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

Grab the full ingredients details and instructions in the recipe card below!

Substitutions and Additions

Here are some substitution suggestions for the main ingredients:

Fresh Corn: If fresh corn is not available, canned or frozen corn can be used. For that smoky flavor, you can lightly sauté them in a pan before adding to the salad.
Red Onion: Shallots or green onions can be used as a replacement for red onions. They both provide a slightly milder flavor which can be beneficial for those who find red onions too strong.
Cherry or Grape Tomatoes: Regular tomatoes can be diced and used in place of cherry or grape tomatoes. If you’re after a burst of sweetness, try adding diced bell peppers instead.
Large Avocado: For those with an avocado allergy or dislike, cucumbers can give a similar refreshing crunch. Alternatively, for the creamy texture that avocados provide, try adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or some feta cheese.

Instructions

Before grilling, brush the corn with melted butter. Then, place the corn and red onion slices on a pre-heated gas grill over medium direct heat. Alternatively, you can use a grill pan sprayed with non-stick cooking spray indoors, set over medium-high heat.

Grill the corn until the kernels are lightly charred, rotating it a quarter turn every few minutes until all sides are cooked. Flip the red onion once during the cooking process. Once done, remove the vegetables from heat and carefully slice the kernels from the cob using a sharp knife. Discard the cobs and transfer the onions and corn kernels to a large salad bowl. Set aside for later use.

Combine tomatoes, avocado, fresh parsley, and lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt and black pepper to your liking, then gently toss to mix. Serve promptly alongside your preferred main course.

Recipe tips

Absolutely, here are some tips to make your Grilled Corn and Cherry Tomato Salad even better:

Grilling the Corn: For an extra layer of flavor, try grilling the corn on the cob until slightly charred before cutting off the kernels. This will give your salad a delightful smoky taste.
Ripe Avocados: Make sure your avocados are perfectly ripe to ensure the creamiest texture. If you’re unsure, give them a gentle squeeze; they should yield slightly under pressure.
Marinating Onions: To take the edge off the raw onions, consider marinating them in a bit of vinegar or lemon juice before adding them to the salad. This will also add an additional layer of flavor.
Serving Immediately: For the freshest taste and texture, serve the salad immediately after preparing it. If you need to store it, keep the avocado separate and add it just before serving to prevent browning.
Customizing Your Salad: Feel free to add other ingredients you love. Some crumbled feta or goat cheese, fresh herbs like basil or mint, or even some grilled chicken or shrimp can turn this side dish into a hearty main course.

Storage & reheating

Storing the Grilled Corn and Cherry Tomato Salad is simple. Just place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within 2-3 days for maximum freshness and flavor.

As for freezing, this particular salad might not fare well in the freezer. The freezing process can change the texture of fresh vegetables like corn, tomatoes, and especially avocados, causing them to become mushy when thawed. Therefore, it’s recommended to enjoy this salad fresh or refrigerated.

If you find yourself with too much salad, consider sharing with friends or family, or repurposing the ingredients in another dish.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use a different type of onion?

Yes, you can use any type of onion you prefer or have on hand. Green onions or shallots could provide a milder flavor if desired.

What other vegetables can I add to this salad?

This salad is quite versatile. You could add cucumbers, bell peppers, or even some grilled zucchini for extra crunch and flavor.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! The salad itself is vegan. Just be sure to check the dressing ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

What dressing would you recommend for this salad?

A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar, mustard, and a touch of honey pairs well with the flavors in this salad. However, feel free to use your favorite dressing.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but for the best results, add the avocado just before serving to prevent it from browning. Also, if using a vinaigrette, consider dressing the salad right before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.

What can I pair this salad with?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or even a hearty grain like quinoa or farro for a complete meal. It’s also perfect as a standalone light lunch or dinner.

Yield: 4 portions