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

Wonderful grilled corn salad with avocado, goat cheese, and a sweet & spicy hot honey vinaigrette. This fresh, easy grilled corn salad comes together in a few simple steps and makes the perfect summer lunch or side dish! Enjoy it on its own or add your favorite protein for a full meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: The combination of grilled corn, ripe avocado, and tangy goat cheese creates a delightful flavor explosion.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create this vibrant salad in under 35 minutes.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side dish for BBQs or as a light lunch, this salad fits any occasion.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and healthy fats, it’s a guilt-free choice.
• Sweet and Spicy Flavor: The hot honey vinaigrette adds an exciting kick that elevates the dish.

Tools and Preparation

To make your grilled corn salad with avocado, goat cheese & hot honey vinaigrette, you’ll need some essential tools. Having these on hand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Large bowl
• Mason jar or small bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A grill is crucial for achieving that perfect char on the corn, enhancing its natural sweetness.
• Large bowl: This allows you to mix all the ingredients easily without spilling.
• Mason jar: Great for shaking your vinaigrette; it ensures all ingredients are well combined.

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 work best!)
• 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 is key for getting that delicious char on the corn.

Step 2: Grill the Corn

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

Step 3: Prepare the Salad Base

1. Allow the grilled corn to cool slightly.
2. Cut kernels off the cob into a large bowl.
3. Add halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, crumbled goat cheese, diced red onion, and julienned basil to the bowl.
4. Gently toss everything together to combine.

Step 4: Make Your 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 olive oil, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. If using a mason jar, secure lid tightly and shake well to combine; alternatively whisk in a small bowl.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour the hot honey vinaigrette over the salad mixture in your large bowl. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with dressing. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Enjoy your grilled corn salad right away! If preparing in advance, consider waiting to add 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 versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you want it as a refreshing side dish or a main meal, here are some scrumptious suggestions.

As a Standalone Lunch

• Enjoy the salad on its own for a light and healthy lunch option. It’s packed with nutrients and flavor!

As a Side Dish

• Pair this corn salad alongside grilled meats like chicken or steak. The fresh ingredients complement rich flavors beautifully.

With Tacos

• Serve the salad as a topping for tacos. The crunchy texture and zesty vinaigrette add an exciting twist to your favorite taco recipes.

Over Quinoa or Rice

• Spoon the salad over a bed of quinoa or rice for a filling meal. This adds extra protein and makes it more satisfying.

In a Wrap

• Use the salad as a filling in wraps. Combine with greens and your favorite protein for a delicious and portable meal.

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

To elevate your Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette, consider these handy tips for perfect results every time.

• Choose Fresh Corn: Use sweet, fresh corn for grilling. It enhances the flavor and sweetness of your salad.
• Let the Dressing Cool: Allow the hot honey vinaigrette to cool slightly before adding it to the salad. This prevents wilting the greens and avocado.
• Tweak Spice Levels: Adjust cayenne pepper or hot sauce according to taste. Start small and increase heat gradually if desired.
• Add Crunchy Elements: For added texture, consider mixing in nuts like pecans or walnuts. They provide great crunch and flavor contrast.
• Serve Immediately: For optimal freshness, serve the salad right after tossing it together. This keeps the ingredients crisp and vibrant.
• Use Seasonal Ingredients: Incorporate seasonal vegetables or fruits that you love. This keeps the recipe fresh and exciting throughout summer.

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

This vibrant corn salad pairs well with many side dishes that can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers cooked on the grill add protein while complementing the smoky flavor of the corn.
2. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the tangy elements in the salad.
3. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw provides crunchy texture and balances out the heat from the vinaigrette.
4. Tomato Basil Bruschetta: This light appetizer brings out fresh flavors that match beautifully with the corn salad.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Filled with quinoa or rice, they create a hearty addition alongside your refreshing corn dish.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb side full of nutrients that perfectly pairs with this summer dish.
7. Caprese Salad: The classic combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil complements grilled flavors splendidly.
8. Crispy Roasted Chickpeas: These crunchy bites add flavor diversity while keeping your meal healthy and delicious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making grilled corn salad with avocado, goat cheese, and hot honey vinaigrette can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture.

• Overcooking the Corn: Grilling corn for too long can lead to a tough texture. Aim for about 20 minutes on medium-high heat, turning occasionally for even charring.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Skipping salt and pepper can result in bland salad. Season the corn before grilling and adjust seasoning in the final salad mix.
• Using Unripe Avocado: An unripe avocado will be hard and lack flavor. Choose avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure for the best taste and creaminess.
• Forgetting the Vinaigrette Balance: If you don’t balance sweetness and spice in your dressing, it may not taste as intended. Taste your vinaigrette before pouring it over the salad; adjust with more honey or hot sauce as needed.
• Mixing Ingredients Too Early: Adding avocado too soon can cause it to brown. Mix all ingredients except avocado until ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep avocado separate if possible to maintain its freshness.

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

• Freezing is not recommended due to avocado, which does not freeze well.
• If you must freeze, consider omitting avocado and goat cheese before freezing.
• Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), spread salad on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and reheat at medium power in 30-second increments until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat, add salad, and stir frequently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is grilled corn salad with avocado, goat cheese & hot honey vinaigrette?

Grilled corn salad is a fresh dish featuring grilled corn mixed with creamy avocado, tangy goat cheese, and a sweet-spicy vinaigrette made from hot honey.

How do I make this grilled corn salad vegan-friendly?

To make this recipe vegan-friendly, omit the goat cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative. Additionally, ensure your hot honey is suitable for vegans.

Can I prepare grilled corn salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can grill the corn and prepare the vinaigrette ahead of time. Just mix everything together right before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.

What proteins pair well with grilled corn salad?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can complement this grilled corn salad nicely. Add them for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

This grilled corn salad with avocado, goat cheese, and hot honey vinaigrette is not only vibrant but also versatile. Perfect as a summer side or main dish when paired with protein options. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs! Enjoy this refreshing recipe any time of year!