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 brings together fresh summer flavors. This Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette is not only easy to make but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a light lunch or as a vibrant side for your summer gatherings, this salad is sure to impress with its unique blend of sweet and savory tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and quick preparation, anyone can whip up this dish in just 35 minutes.
• Fresh Ingredients: Featuring seasonal produce, this salad bursts with flavor and nutrition.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite protein or additional vegetables to make it your own.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or casual dinners, it suits various dining situations.
• Deliciously Unique: The combination of hot honey vinaigrette and creamy goat cheese sets this salad apart from traditional recipes.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, it’s helpful to gather all necessary tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for charring the corn to enhance its natural sweetness and flavor.
• Large bowl: Perfect for combining all ingredients without making a mess.
• Mason jar or small bowl: Great for mixing the vinaigrette quickly and efficiently.

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 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

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 that the corn cooks evenly and develops a nice char.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

Drizzle the corn with avocado oil. Rub it all over so that it’s coated well. Season generously with salt and pepper. Place the corn directly on the grill grates.

Step 3: Grill the Corn

Turn the corn occasionally while grilling until it’s charred and cooked through. This should take about 20 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Salad Ingredients

Once grilled, allow the corn to cool slightly before cutting it from the cob. Place the cut corn in a large bowl along with halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, crumbled goat cheese, diced red onion, and julienned basil. Toss everything together gently.

Step 5: Make Hot Honey Vinaigrette

In a mason jar or small bowl, combine honey and cayenne pepper (or hot sauce). Microwave for 10-15 seconds until warm. Remove from heat and add avocado oil (or olive oil), apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Shake well or whisk until combined. Taste it; if you want more heat, feel free to add extra cayenne or hot sauce!

Step 6: Dress Your Salad

Pour the hot honey vinaigrette over your grilled corn salad. Toss everything together again until well combined. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Enjoy your grilled corn salad right away! If making ahead of time, consider adding avocado and goat cheese just before serving to keep them fresh.

This Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition — perfect for summertime dining!

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

This grilled corn salad is versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether you want it as a light lunch or a flavorful side dish, there are plenty of options to enhance your meal.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy it fresh: Serve the salad on its own for a light and refreshing meal.
• Pair with crusty bread: Add some toasted bread on the side for a satisfying crunch.

As a Side Dish

• Great with grilled meats: This salad complements grilled chicken or steak beautifully.
• Perfect for picnics: Pack it in a container for outdoor gatherings or barbecues.

With Additional Proteins

• Add grilled shrimp: Toss in some marinated shrimp for an extra protein boost.
• Top with chickpeas: For a vegetarian option, add canned chickpeas for heartiness.

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

Perfecting your grilled corn salad involves simple tweaks that elevate its flavors and presentation.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Use ripe avocados and seasonal corn for the best taste.
• Grill corn until charred: The smoky flavor enhances the salad’s overall profile.
• Mix dressing well: Ensure all ingredients are combined thoroughly for an even flavor distribution.
• Serve immediately: For optimal freshness, enjoy the salad right after preparing it.
• Adjust spice levels: Customize the hot honey vinaigrette according to your heat preference.
• Add textures: Include nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition.

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

This grilled corn salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some ideal options to complement your meal:

1. Garlic Bread – Toasted slices of baguette smeared with garlic butter make an excellent accompaniment.
2. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a delightful contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies seasoned simply can bring out more flavors from the salad.
4. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed quinoa salad adds substance while remaining light and healthy.
5. Coleslaw – Crunchy coleslaw offers a tangy bite that balances the creamy elements of the corn salad.
6. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit mix can cleanse the palate and bring sweetness to your meal.
7. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side that complements the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette, avoiding common pitfalls can make a big difference in taste and presentation. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the corn: Grilling corn for too long can lead to a tough texture. Aim for about 20 minutes of grilling, turning occasionally until charred but still tender.
• Skipping the cooling step: It’s essential to let the corn cool before cutting it off the cob. Cutting hot corn can lead to uneven pieces and burns on your hands.
• Not seasoning enough: A little salt and pepper go a long way in enhancing flavor. Don’t skip seasoning the corn before grilling or when mixing the salad.
• Assembling too early: If you prepare the salad ahead of time, wait until just before serving to add avocado and goat cheese. This keeps them fresh and prevents browning.
• Ignoring taste adjustments: Everyone has different spice tolerances. Always taste your hot honey vinaigrette and adjust heat levels according to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2–3 days for best freshness.
• Keep avocado separate until ready to eat to avoid browning.

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

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes in avocado and goat cheese.
• If you must freeze, omit these ingredients and store only the corn salad base for up to 1 month.

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 and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container and heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen corn in this Grilled Corn Salad?

Yes, frozen corn can be used as a substitute. Just thaw it first and sauté briefly if desired for extra flavor.

What can I substitute for goat cheese?

If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, try feta or even mozzarella for a different yet delicious flavor profile in your salad.

How do I customize my Grilled Corn Salad?

Feel free to add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp. You can also include other veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers based on your preference.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare most of the salad ingredients ahead of time but add avocado and goat cheese just before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette is perfect for summer gatherings or light lunches. The combination of sweet grilled corn, creamy avocado, tangy goat cheese, and zesty vinaigrette creates a refreshing dish that everyone will love. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or proteins to make it your own! Enjoy this versatile recipe at any occasion!

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

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette is a vibrant and satisfying dish that perfectly encapsulates the essence of summer. This refreshing salad showcases sweet grilled corn, creamy avocado, tangy goat cheese, and a unique hot honey vinaigrette that ties everything together. It’s quick to prepare, taking only 35 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This salad is not just flavorful but also incredibly versatile; you can serve it as a light lunch, a side dish at barbecues, or customize it by adding your favorite proteins or veggies. With its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, this Grilled Corn Salad will impress your family and friends at any occasion.

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Ingredients

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• 4 ears of corn
• 1 avocado
• 1½ cups cherry tomatoes
• ⅓ cup goat cheese
• Hot honey vinaigrette (honey, avocado oil, apple cider vinegar, cayenne pepper)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Drizzle corn with avocado oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill until charred, about 20 minutes.
3. Allow corn to cool slightly before cutting it off the cob.
4. In a large bowl, combine grilled corn with halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, crumbled goat cheese, diced red onion, and basil.
5. For the vinaigrette, mix honey with cayenne pepper in a jar; add oil, vinegar, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Shake well.
6. Pour vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
7. Serve immediately for best flavor.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 10mg