Roasted Corn Salad with Feta Avocado & Lime Vinaigrette

Roasted Corn Salad with Feta, Avocado & Lime Vinaigrette is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of roasted corn with creamy avocado and tangy feta cheese. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a light meal, this salad is not only delicious but also simple to prepare. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a zesty lime vinaigrette, you can whip up this delightful salad in under 20 minutes. Let’s dive into why this dish is a must-try and how to make it step by step.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Roasted Corn Salad is a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The sweetness of charred corn contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of avocado and feta cheese. Fresh cilantro adds an aromatic touch, while the lime vinaigrette brightens up the entire dish. Additionally, it’s a versatile salad that can be served as a side, a light lunch, or a topping for grilled meats. Whether for a summer BBQ, a picnic, or just an everyday meal, this recipe is packed with nutrients and offers a refreshing taste that celebrates the season’s best ingredients.

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Corn Salad

Creating the perfect Roasted Corn Salad is simple with these pro tips:

• For the best flavor, use fresh corn on the cob when in season. Frozen corn is a good alternative if fresh corn is not available.
• Cooking the corn until it’s lightly charred enhances its natural sweetness, adding depth to the dish.
• To keep your avocado from browning, add it to the salad just before serving.
• Feel free to customize the salad by adding other colorful vegetables such as bell peppers or cherry tomatoes.
• The lime vinaigrette can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week, making meal prep easier.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you will need to prepare Roasted Corn Salad with Feta, Avocado & Lime Vinaigrette:

• 3 cups corn kernels, fresh or frozen (thawed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Lime Vinaigrette:

• 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Step 1: Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tablespoon of olive oil, followed by the corn kernels. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Cook the corn for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the kernels are lightly charred. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the corn cool slightly while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, honey, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This will be your zesty lime vinaigrette that adds brightness to the salad.

Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted corn, diced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, finely diced red onion, and chopped cilantro.

Pour the lime vinaigrette over the salad mix and toss gently to combine everything together without mashing the avocado.

Step 4: Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors of this delightful salad. Optionally, you can garnish with more cilantro or a wedge of lime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?

Yes, you can use canned corn, but make sure to drain and rinse it well before using. Keep in mind that you may not get the same charred flavor as with fresh or frozen corn.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the avocado may brown, and the salad may lose some freshness.

Can I make the salad ahead of time?

While you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the avocado’s freshness and prevent browning.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of feta, you can substitute it with queso fresco, goat cheese, or even a dairy-free alternative for a similar creamy texture.

How can I make this salad spicier?

To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper in the vinaigrette. You can also serve it with a hot sauce drizzle on top.

Conclusion

This Roasted Corn Salad with Feta, Avocado & Lime Vinaigrette is not just a feast for the eyes but a delightful experience for the palate. With its colorful ingredients and easy preparation, this dish can become a staple for your summer meals, potlucks, and BBQs. The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful salad, and let your taste buds celebrate the glorious flavors of the season.