This Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is a delightful mix of flavors that brings the essence of summer to your table. With its sweet, smoky charred corn, creamy avocado, and vibrant tomatoes, this salad serves as an excellent side for any gathering or barbecue. The refreshing lemon Dijon dressing ties all the ingredients together, making it a must-try for your next potluck.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Salad
- For the Dressing
- How to Make Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions
- Step 1: Prepare the Onions
- Step 2: Grill the Vegetables
- Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Step 4: Make the Dressing
- Step 5: Serve It Up
- How to Serve Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions
- As a Side Dish
- In a Wrap
- As a Snack
- How to Perfect Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions
- Best Side Dishes for Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions
- Reheating Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I choose ripe avocados for this salad?
- Can I customize my Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions?
- What can I serve with this salad?
- How long does this salad last in the fridge?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Combination: The blend of charred corn, creamy avocado, and crisp red onions delivers an explosion of taste in every bite.
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
- Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a side dish or a light main course; it fits seamlessly into various meal plans.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins and fiber, this salad can be a part of your healthy eating routine.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner at home, this salad is sure to impress.

Tools and Preparation
To make the Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions, you’ll need some essential tools for preparation. Having the right equipment makes cooking efficient and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that smoky char on the corn that enhances flavor.
- Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when chopping vegetables like onions and avocados.
- Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for cutting.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 red onion
- 3 corn
- 200 g red grape tomatoes
- 200 g yellow grape tomatoes
- 1 avocado
- ¼ bunch cilantro (coriander)
- salt (to taste)
- pepper (to taste)
For the Dressing
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
How to Make Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions
Step 1: Prepare the Onions
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Peel the red onions and slice them into thick rounds.
- Brush both sides with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Grill the Vegetables
- Place the sliced onions on the grill and cook until tender and charred, about 5–7 minutes per side.
- While grilling onions, husk the corn and brush them lightly with olive oil.
- Add corn to the grill alongside the onions. Grill until charred, about 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Once grilled, allow onions and corn to cool slightly before cutting them into smaller pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine grilled corn kernels, chopped red onions, halved red grape tomatoes, halved yellow grape tomatoes, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together remaining olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 5: Serve It Up
- Drizzle dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving for enhanced flavors!
How to Serve Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions
This Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to complement your meals or gatherings.
As a Side Dish
- Pair it with grilled meats for a balanced meal.
- Serve alongside tacos for a fresh and zesty contrast.
- Bring it to potlucks as a crowd-pleaser.
In a Wrap
- Use large lettuce leaves to create a refreshing wrap.
- Add some grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Drizzle with extra lemon Dijon dressing for added flavor.
As a Snack
- Enjoy it on its own as a light snack.
- Serve it with tortilla chips for a crunchy complement.
- Use it as a topping for bruschetta or crostini.
How to Perfect Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions
Enhancing the flavors of your Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is easy. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce will enhance the salad’s flavors, making each bite more enjoyable.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for balanced flavors.
- Let it chill: Allow the salad to rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving; this melds the flavors beautifully.
- Experiment with herbs: Try adding fresh basil or mint for an aromatic twist that brightens the salad.
Best Side Dishes for Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions
This salad pairs wonderfully with many side dishes, making it a versatile option. Here are some great accompaniments:
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with spices provide a hearty contrast.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf adds texture and complements the freshness of the salad.
- Black Bean Tacos: Flavorful black bean tacos offer a tasty vegetarian option that pairs well.
- Roasted Veggies: Seasoned roasted vegetables bring warmth and depth to your meal setup.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread offers crunch and indulgence alongside the fresh salad.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances savory dishes with sweetness, perfect for summer gatherings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions, avoid these common mistakes for the best results.
- Skipping the seasoning: Many forget to season their ingredients. Always add salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of your salad.
- Overcooking the corn: If you cook the corn too long, it loses its sweetness. Aim for a nice char while keeping it crunchy.
- Using unripe avocado: An unripe avocado can ruin your salad’s texture. Choose ripe avocados for a creamy consistency.
- Neglecting freshness: Fresh ingredients make a big difference. Always use fresh herbs and vegetables for the best taste.
- Not letting onions cool: Roasted red onions should cool before mixing. This prevents wilting your greens and overpowering the other flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions
- Freezing is not recommended as it can affect texture, especially of avocado.
- If necessary, store in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month.
Reheating Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes, ensuring even warmth.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds on medium power to avoid overcooking.
- Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions.
How do I choose ripe avocados for this salad?
Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure. They should be dark green or black in color without any soft spots.
Can I customize my Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions?
Absolutely! Feel free to add beans, other vegetables, or different dressings based on your preferences.
What can I serve with this salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a larger summer spread at picnics or barbecues.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, it will last about 2-3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Final Thoughts
The Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions is not just delicious; it’s also versatile. Perfect as a side dish or main course, this recipe allows for plenty of customization based on what you have at hand. Give it a try and enjoy the fresh flavors of summer!
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Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of summer with this Charred Corn Avocado Salad with Roasted Red Onions. This delightful dish features sweet, smoky grilled corn, creamy avocado, and juicy tomatoes, all tossed together in a zesty lemon Dijon dressing. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or as a refreshing side to any meal, this salad not only bursts with flavor but also offers a healthy dose of nutrients. With just 15 minutes of prep time and simple ingredients, you can create a colorful and nutritious bowl that will impress your guests and elevate your summer dining experience.
Ingredients
- 2 red onions
- 3 ears of corn
- 200 g red grape tomatoes
- 200 g yellow grape tomatoes
- 1 avocado
- ¼ bunch cilantro (coriander)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Peel and slice the red onions into thick rounds; brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill onions for about 5–7 minutes per side until charred. Simultaneously, husk the corn, brush with oil, and grill for approximately 10–12 minutes until charred.
- Allow vegetables to cool before chopping them into smaller pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine grilled corn kernels, chopped onions, halved tomatoes, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro.
- Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl; drizzle over salad and toss gently.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg