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

Wonderful grilled corn salad with avocado, tangy goat cheese, and a sweet & spicy hot honey vinaigrette is the perfect dish for any summer gathering. The Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette offers a delightful combination of flavors that appeal to everyone. This fresh salad can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal or served as a vibrant side dish. Easy to prepare, it’s sure to impress your guests at picnics, barbecues, or family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: This salad features fresh corn and ripe avocados, making it not only delicious but also nutritious.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a side dish or mix in your favorite protein for a complete meal.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
• Flavorful Vinaigrette: The hot honey vinaigrette adds a unique sweet and spicy kick that elevates the entire salad.
• Colorful Presentation: The bright colors from the ingredients make this salad visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette, gather your tools. The right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A grill is essential for achieving that smoky flavor in the corn.
• Large bowl: Perfect for mixing all the fresh ingredients together without spilling.
• Mason jar or small bowl: Ideal for preparing and shaking up the vinaigrette quickly.

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 (preferably heirloom cherry or grape tomatoes)
• 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

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

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

1. Drizzle each ear of corn with avocado oil and rub it all over.
2. Season with freshly ground salt and pepper.
3. Place the corn directly on the grill and turn occasionally until charred and cooked (about 20 minutes).

Step 3: Mix Salad Ingredients

1. Once cooled, cut the corn from the cob and place it in a large bowl.
2. Add halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, crumbled goat cheese, diced red onion, and julienned basil.
3. Toss all ingredients together gently to combine.

Step 4: Make Hot Honey Vinaigrette

1. In a mason jar or small bowl, add honey and cayenne pepper (or hot sauce).
2. Microwave for 10-15 seconds until warm.
3. Remove from microwave; add olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Secure lid on jar and shake well to combine or whisk in a bowl if preferred.
5. Taste and adjust spice level by adding more hot sauce or cayenne if desired.

Step 5: Serve Your Salad

1. Pour the hot honey vinaigrette over the corn salad mixture; toss lightly to combine.
2. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
3. Serve immediately or store without avocado and goat cheese until ready to enjoy!

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 a vibrant dish that can elevate any meal. Here are some delightful ways to serve this refreshing salad.

As a Standalone Lunch

• Enjoy it on its own for a light yet satisfying lunch. The combination of flavors makes it filling without being heavy.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken slices to add protein and enhance the dish’s smoky flavor. The chicken complements the salad beautifully.

As a Side Dish for BBQ

• Serve alongside your favorite grilled meats or veggies at a barbecue. Its freshness balances out richer dishes perfectly.

Topped on Tacos

• Use the salad as a topping for soft or hard-shell tacos. It adds a crunchy texture and bright flavors that enhance any taco filling.

Mixed into Quinoa Bowls

• Toss the corn salad into a quinoa bowl for added nutrition and taste. This turns it into a hearty meal packed with nutrients.

For Meal Prep

• Prepare the salad in advance and store it in the fridge for easy access during busy weekdays. Just add avocado right before serving to keep it fresh.

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

Perfecting your grilled corn salad is simple with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance flavor and presentation.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Opt for the freshest corn and ripe avocados. Their natural flavors will elevate your salad significantly.

• Grill Corn Until Charred: Make sure to grill the corn until it’s well-charred for that smoky flavor. This step adds depth to your dish.

• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your hot honey vinaigrette before serving; feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more honey if desired.

• Add Crunch: Consider mixing in some chopped nuts or seeds for an extra crunch factor. Sunflower seeds work particularly well here.

• Serve Chilled: For an even more refreshing experience, chill your prepared salad in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving.

• Garnish Creatively: Top with extra basil leaves or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation that impresses guests.

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

Pairing side dishes with your grilled corn salad can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus enhances the summer vibe.

2. Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy roasted chickpeas add protein and texture while complementing the fresh flavors of the corn salad.

3. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs provides a nutty flavor that pairs nicely with the sweet elements of the salad.

4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad drizzled with lemon juice offers crispness and balances out richer flavors from other dishes.

5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful stuffed bell peppers filled with rice or beans make for an eye-catching side that’s both filling and nutritious.

6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries bring a sweet contrast, making them an enjoyable addition alongside your grilled corn salad.

7. Caprese Skewers: Skewered cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella (or plant-based cheese), and basil provide an Italian twist that’s easy to prepare.

8. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread serves as a comforting side that complements almost any main dish while adding delicious flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few tips to help you avoid them.

• Overcooking the Corn: Corn should be grilled until lightly charred but not mushy. Keep an eye on it and turn it frequently to achieve the perfect texture.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Skipping salt and pepper can lead to bland flavors. Always season your ingredients well, especially the corn before grilling.
• Using Unripe Avocado: An unripe avocado can ruin the salad’s creaminess. Choose avocados that yield slightly when pressed for the best flavor and texture.
• Skipping the Vinaigrette: The vinaigrette adds a crucial layer of flavor. Don’t skip it; make sure to drizzle it generously over the salad before serving.
• Preparing Ahead Without Caution: If you plan to make this salad in advance, wait to add avocado and goat cheese until right before serving. This keeps them fresh and vibrant.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The salad will stay fresh for about 2 days in the fridge.

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

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the avocado and goat cheese textures changing after thawing.

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

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place the salad in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette.

Can I use other cheeses instead of goat cheese?

Yes! Feta or crumbled blue cheese work well as alternatives if you’re looking for different flavors.

How do I make this salad vegan-friendly?

Omit the goat cheese and use a plant-based alternative. You can also substitute honey with maple syrup for a completely vegan dish.

What can I serve with Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette?

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a larger summer barbecue spread.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include bell peppers, cucumbers, or even zucchini for added crunch and nutrition.

How long does this salad last?

The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days without losing too much quality.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado, Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Vinaigrette is not only refreshing but also versatile. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light meal on its own. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or proteins for an extra twist!