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

Wonderful grilled corn salad with avocado, goat cheese, and hot honey vinaigrette is a delightful dish that celebrates summer flavors. This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of grilled corn with creamy avocado and tangy goat cheese, topped off with a sweet and spicy vinaigrette. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch, this Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette is sure to impress your guests and family alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of grilled corn, ripe avocado, and zesty vinaigrette creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side or turn it into a main course by adding your favorite protein like chicken or shrimp.
• Seasonal Ingredients: Take advantage of fresh summer produce to create a dish that is both delicious and nutritious.
• Gluten-Free and Vegetarian: Suitable for various dietary preferences, this salad caters to many guests at your gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing this delicious grilled corn salad requires just a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Mason jar or small bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: The grill adds smoky flavor to the corn, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without spilling.
• Mason jar or small bowl: Ideal for mixing the hot honey vinaigrette; it makes shaking or whisking simple.

Ingredients

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 cherry or grape tomatoes are great!)
• 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 1/2 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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 the corn cooks evenly and gets nice char marks.

Step 2: Grill the Corn

• Drizzle each ear of corn with avocado oil.
• Rub the oil all over the corn and season generously with salt and pepper.
• Place the corn directly on the grill. Turn occasionally until charred and cooked through, about 20 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare Salad Ingredients

Allow the grilled corn to cool slightly. Once cooled:
* Cut kernels from the cobs using a sharp knife.
* In a large mixing bowl, combine the cut corn with halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, crumbled goat cheese, diced red onion, and julienned basil. Toss gently to mix.

Step 4: Make Hot Honey Vinaigrette

In a mason jar or small bowl:
* Add honey along with cayenne pepper or hot sauce. Microwave for 10-15 seconds until warm.
* Remove from microwave and add avocado oil (or olive oil), apple cider vinegar (or lime juice), dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
* Seal jar tightly or use a whisk in a bowl to mix well until combined. Adjust spice level if desired.

Step 5: Combine Salad with Vinaigrette

Pour the hot honey vinaigrette over the salad mixture. Toss everything together until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Enjoy your vibrant grilled corn salad right away! If preparing ahead of time, keep avocado and goat cheese separate until ready to serve for optimal freshness.

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

Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese, and Hot Honey Vinaigrette is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. This vibrant salad can be served in various ways to suit your taste or occasion.

As a Standalone Dish

• Serve it as a light lunch or dinner option, showcasing the salad’s fresh ingredients.
• Perfect for picnics or potlucks, bringing a burst of flavor to any gathering.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a satisfying meal.
• The sweet and spicy vinaigrette complements grilled meats beautifully.

In a Wrap or Sandwich

• Use the corn salad as a filling for wraps or sandwiches, adding creaminess and crunch.
• Combine it with greens for an added layer of freshness.

As a Topping

• Use the salad as a topping on tacos or nachos for a unique twist.
• It adds color and flavor to your favorite Mexican dishes.

With Extra Crunch

• Add crispy tortilla chips on top for an extra layer of texture.
• This makes the salad even more appealing and fun to eat.

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

Creating the perfect Grilled Corn Salad requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh corn and ripe avocados to enhance flavor and texture.
• Adjust Seasoning: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper; they bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Let it Chill: Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps flavors meld together beautifully.
• Customize Your Greens: Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or parsley if you want a unique taste.
• Store Properly: If making ahead, keep avocado and goat cheese separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
• Make It Spicier: Adjust the amount of hot honey or cayenne pepper based on your heat preference for the vinaigrette.

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

This refreshing grilled corn salad pairs well with various side dishes that complement its bold flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers add protein and flavor that match perfectly with the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf provides additional fiber and is a healthy side option.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients alongside your main dish.
4. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread offers delicious contrast in texture while being an easy addition to any meal.
5. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad can refresh your palate and balance the sweetness of the corn salad.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These can be filled with rice, beans, or meat for a hearty side that complements the flavors in your main dish.
7. Fruit Salad: A simple fruit salad brings sweetness that pairs nicely with spicy elements in your corn salad.
8. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and enhances the overall dining experience with its crispness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making grilled corn salad with avocado, goat cheese, and hot honey vinaigrette can be simple, but certain mistakes can impact your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the grilling step: Grilling the corn adds a smoky flavor that enhances the salad. Make sure to grill the corn until it’s charred for the best taste.
• Not cooling the corn: If you add hot corn directly to your salad, it can wilt the other ingredients. Always let the corn cool before combining it with avocado and goat cheese.
• Overdressing the salad: Using too much vinaigrette can overwhelm the fresh flavors of the salad. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to achieve your desired taste.
• Forgetting to season: Failing to season each component can lead to a bland salad. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper not only to the corn but also to the dressing and the final mixture.
• Using unripe avocados: An unripe avocado can ruin your salad’s creaminess. Make sure your avocados are ripe and soft for the best texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep avocado and goat cheese separate if storing leftovers to maintain freshness.

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

• This salad is not ideal for freezing due to its fresh ingredients.
• If necessary, freeze just the grilled corn for up to 3 months; however, it’s best enjoyed fresh.

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

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (about 30 seconds), stirring between until warmed. Be cautious not to overcook.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warm. This helps retain texture better than other methods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make grilled corn salad with avocado, goat cheese & hot honey vinaigrette ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare most components in advance but keep avocado and goat cheese separate until serving for optimal freshness.

What other ingredients can I add to my grilled corn salad?

Feel free to customize by adding black beans, bell peppers, or even some grilled chicken for extra protein!

How do I store leftovers of grilled corn salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Avoid mixing in avocado and goat cheese until ready to eat.

Can I substitute goat cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feta or cotija cheese would work well if you’re looking for a different flavor profile while keeping it creamy.

Is this grilled corn salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It makes a great meal prep option; just keep in mind how you store your ingredients separately for maximum freshness.

Final Thoughts

This grilled corn salad with avocado, goat cheese, and hot honey vinaigrette is a delightful dish perfect for summer lunches or as a side at gatherings. Its vibrant flavors and textures make it both appealing and satisfying. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite proteins or vegetables. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 4 people 1x

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Description

Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette is a vibrant celebration of summer flavors that combines the sweetness of grilled corn, creamy avocado, and tangy goat cheese. Finished with a sweet and spicy hot honey vinaigrette, this dish is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a refreshing light lunch. It’s quick to prepare and versatile enough to serve as a side or main course when paired with your favorite protein. Impress your family and friends with this colorful salad that balances fresh ingredients and bold flavors.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 ears of corn
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• Freshly ground salt and pepper
• 1 ½ cups halved cherry tomatoes
• 1 avocado, diced
• ⅓ cup goat cheese, crumbled
• ¼ cup diced red onion
• 6 large leaves basil, julienned
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Pinch of cayenne pepper or ½ teaspoon hot sauce
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
• ¼ teaspoon dijon mustard
• ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
• Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush corn with avocado oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill for about 20 minutes until charred.
3. Allow corn to cool slightly before cutting kernels off the cob.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine corn kernels, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled goat cheese, diced onion, and basil.
5. For the vinaigrette: Mix honey, cayenne (or hot sauce), avocado oil, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a jar or bowl until well combined.
6. Pour vinaigrette over salad mixture; toss gently to coat evenly.
7. Serve immediately or store components separately for later enjoyment.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 10mg