Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette

Wonderful grilled corn salad with avocado, goat cheese, and a hot honey vinaigrette is the perfect dish for summer gatherings. This Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a fresh side dish for dinner, this salad stands out with its vibrant flavors and textures. The combination of sweet corn, creamy avocado, and tangy goat cheese makes it irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This salad comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for busy days.
• Flavorful Blend: The mix of grilled corn, ripe avocado, and goat cheese creates a delightful taste experience.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side or add your favorite protein to make it a complete meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and healthy fats, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for summer picnics, potlucks, or casual dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To create this vibrant salad, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowls
• Mason jar or small bowl (for vinaigrette)
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that delicious char on the corn which enhances its sweetness.
• Mixing bowls: Perfect for combining all the ingredients without making a mess.
• Mason jar: Great for shaking up the vinaigrette quickly and easily.

Ingredients

The following ingredients will help you create this delightful Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette:

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 or grape tomatoes work well!)
• 1 avocado, diced
• ⅓ cup goat cheese, crumbled
• ¼ cup diced red onion (or substitute green onion)
• 6 large leaves basil, julienned

Hot Honey Vinaigrette:

• 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Pinch of cayenne pepper or ½ teaspoon hot sauce of choice
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar (or substitute fresh lime juice)
• ¼ teaspoon dijon mustard
• ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
• Freshly ground salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that your corn gets that perfect char while cooking.

Step 2: Grill the Corn

1. Drizzle the corn with avocado oil and rub it all over.
2. Season with freshly ground salt and pepper.
3. Place the corn directly on the grill. Turn occasionally until charred and cooked through—about 20 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Salad Base

1. Allow the grilled corn to cool slightly before cutting it from the cob into a large mixing bowl.
2. Add halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, crumbled goat cheese, diced red onion, and julienned basil to the bowl.
3. Toss everything together gently to combine.

Step 4: Make the Hot Honey Vinaigrette

1. In a mason jar or small bowl, combine honey and cayenne pepper (or hot sauce).
2. Microwave for 10-15 seconds until warm.
3. Remove from microwave and add in olive oil, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Securely lid the mason jar or whisk in a bowl until well combined. Adjust spice levels by adding more cayenne if desired.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour the hot honey vinaigrette over your salad mixture. Toss everything together until evenly coated with dressing. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Enjoy your delicious grilled corn salad right away! If preparing ahead of time, consider waiting to add the avocado and goat cheese until just before serving for optimal freshness.

How to Serve Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette

Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette is a vibrant dish that can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a meal at home, these serving suggestions will help you make the most of this delicious salad.

As a Standalone Meal

• Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing lunch option.
• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein and flavor.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled meats like steak, chicken, or fish to complement the flavors.
• Serve alongside a hearty grain dish such as quinoa or farro.

On Tacos or Burritos

• Spoon the salad into soft tortillas for a fresh twist on traditional tacos.
• Use it as a topping for burritos to add color and crunch.

With Toast or Bruschetta

• Top toasted bread slices with the salad for an easy appetizer.
• Drizzle with extra hot honey vinaigrette for added flavor.

At Potlucks and Picnics

• Bring it along to share at your next picnic; it’s sure to impress!
• Serve in a large bowl with serving utensils for easy sharing.

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How to Perfect Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette

To make the best Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and ripe avocados enhance the flavor and texture of the salad.
• Grill Corn Properly: Ensure your grill is preheated; this gives the corn a nice char and smoky flavor.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust the hot honey vinaigrette according to your taste; more honey for sweetness or more cayenne for heat works well.
• Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh. If preparing ahead, add avocado and goat cheese just before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Corn Salad can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the salad’s freshness while adding rich flavors.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity, balancing out the creamy goat cheese.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables provide additional nutrients and smoky flavor.
4. Rice Pilaf: A light rice pilaf can soak up any extra vinaigrette from the salad beautifully.
5. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with fresh salsa make for a fun appetizer before enjoying the salad.
6. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad offers another refreshing side that pairs well with summer meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the corn: If you leave the corn on the grill for too long, it can become tough. Grill until charred but still tender, about 20 minutes.
• Using unripe avocados: Unripe avocados can be hard and lack flavor. Choose ripe avocados for a creamy texture and taste.
• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your ingredients properly can lead to bland flavors. Be generous with salt and pepper for a better taste.
• Making vinaigrette too spicy or mild: Adjust the amount of hot sauce or cayenne carefully to suit your palate. Start with less and add more as needed.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Fresh produce enhances flavor significantly. Opt for fresh corn, ripe tomatoes, and good-quality goat cheese for best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep avocado and goat cheese separate until ready to serve.

Freezing Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh and is not recommended for freezing due to the avocado and goat cheese.

Reheating Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the salad on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve with Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, or fish for a complete meal. It also complements burgers or sandwiches perfectly.

How do I make my own hot honey vinaigrette?

Combine honey, oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and cayenne or hot sauce. Shake or whisk until blended.

Can I use other types of cheese in this salad?

Yes! You can substitute feta or blue cheese if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How should I store leftovers of Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. However, it’s best to keep avocado and goat cheese separate until serving.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette is not just refreshing but also versatile! Perfect as a side dish or light lunch, you can easily customize it by adding proteins or changing up the vegetables. Give it a try this summer!