Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad

Introduction to Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad

As a busy mom, I know how hectic life can get, especially when it comes to meal prep. That’s why I love creating vibrant dishes like my Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad. It’s a refreshing twist on traditional salads, bursting with fresh flavors and color. Imagine crisp sweet corn paired with creamy avocado and juicy strawberries, all drizzled with a delightful honey mustard vinaigrette. Perfect for those warm summer days, this salad can elevate any meal, making it a go-to in my kitchen. Trust me; your tastebuds will thank you for this one!

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad

This Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad is a total win for busy lives! It requires minimal prep and takes just 25 minutes from start to finish. Packed with nutrients, its fresh flavors will lift your spirits and satisfy your cravings. Plus, it’s a feast for the eyes, making it delightful for gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep it in your weekly rotation!

Ingredients for Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad a success. You’ll find a beautiful mix of flavors and textures here. Let’s dive in!

• Sweet Corn: Fresh sweet corn, grilled to perfection, adds a natural sweetness and a delightful crunch.
• Spring Mix Baby Greens: These tender greens provide a mild earthiness that complements the sweeter elements of the salad.
• Kale: Roughly chopped kale not only boosts the nutrition but also adds a hearty texture. It pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.
• Strawberries: Juicy, ripe strawberries add a burst of sweetness and are packed with antioxidants.
• Pistachios: Shelled pistachios bring a nutty flavor and crunch, perfect for contrast against the creaminess of the avocado.
• Blueberries: These little gems are not just pretty; they add another layer of sweetness and color to your plate.
• Avocado: Creamy avocado is a superstar in this salad, bringing healthy fats that round out the dish.
• Goat Cheese: Crumbled goat cheese adds a tangy creaminess. Substitute with feta if preferred, or skip it for a dairy-free option.
• Fresh Basil and Mint: Minced herbs uplift the salad’s flavor, creating a fresh and fragrant experience.
• Fresh Ground Black Pepper: A dash of this elevates the overall taste and provides a nifty peppery kick.
• Honey Mustard Vinaigrette: Made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and stone-ground mustard, it ties all the flavors together beautifully.
• Coarse Salt: A pinch of salt enhances each ingredient’s flavor, balancing the sweetness of the fruits and dressing.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you’ll find everything laid out for easy printing!

How to Make Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad

Now that we have our colorful ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad. You’ll see how simple and quick it is to whip up a salad that bursts with flavor and freshness. Grab your favorite cutting board and let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Grill the Corn

First up, the star of our salad: the corn! Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. I like to drizzle a little olive oil over the corn and season it with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the flavor. Using tongs, place the corn directly on the grill. Grill it for about ten minutes, turning occasionally. Look for those beautiful grill marks! Once done, let it cool for a moment. Then, slice the kernels off the cob and set them aside. They will add a lovely sweetness and crunch to our salad.

Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette

Next, let’s whip up our honey mustard vinaigrette. In a small bowl, combine two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, two teaspoons of balsamic vinegar, one teaspoon of honey, and two teaspoons of stone-ground mustard. Oh, and don’t forget a pinch of coarse salt! Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and nicely blended. This step is crucial because balancing the flavors really elevates the salad. Taste it and adjust if you like—maybe a little more honey for sweetness or a dash more mustard for a kick!

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Finally, it’s time to bring everything together! In a large bowl, combine the grilled corn, spring mix greens, chopped kale, diced strawberries, shelled pistachios, blueberries, and diced avocado. Next, add in the crumbled goat cheese, if you’re using it, along with the minced herbs. Drizzle your homemade vinaigrette over the top and gently toss everything to coat. I usually serve this salad in individual bowls; it looks so pretty that way! Enjoy immediately for the best flavor, and watch your family’s faces light up with each bite!

Tips for Success

• Choose ripe strawberries and avocados for the best flavor and creaminess.
• Grill more corn and keep it on hand for quick salads and sides throughout the week.
• Prep the vinaigrette in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
• Mix the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
• Don’t hesitate to get creative—add your favorite nuts or seasonal fruits!

Equipment Needed

• Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill: A stovetop grill pan works well; a regular frying pan can be used too!
• Cutting Board: A sturdy board helps keep your workspace organized.
• Knife: A sharp knife is essential for cutting the corn and chopping greens.
• Whisk: This tool is perfect for mixing up the vinaigrette.
• Large Bowl: Use a big bowl to combine all your fresh ingredients smoothly.

Variations of Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the salad for a spicy twist!
• Protein Boost: Include grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. It pairs wonderfully with the sweet and tangy flavors.
• Different Greens: Swap the spring mix and kale for arugula or spinach for a peppery bite or softer texture.
• Fruity Options: Experiment with seasonal fruits like peaches or mangoes for a new flavor profile.
• Nuts Galore: Try walnuts, almonds, or cashews instead of pistachios for different textures and tastes.

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside tortilla chips and salsa for a fun picnic vibe.
• Accompany with a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with lemon.
• Consider serving in mason jars for easy transport to picnics!
• Garnish with extra herb sprigs for a beautiful presentation.

FAQs about Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can grill the corn and prepare the vinaigrette in advance. However, for the freshest taste, I recommend assembling the salad just before serving. This keeps the greens crisp and the flavors vibrant.

What if I don’t have fresh strawberries?
No worries at all! You can substitute them with frozen strawberries. Just thaw them first and drain excess moisture. Alternatively, try using other berries like raspberries or blackberries for a similar sweet-tart flavor.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad is perfect for meal prep. However, store the dressing separately to keep the greens fresh. Just toss everything together when you’re ready to eat!

Can I add protein to this salad?
Definitely! Adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can turn this salad into a satisfying meal. It complements the sweet and savory components wonderfully, making it hearty and fulfilling.

How long can I store leftovers?
If you have unassembled leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for about 2 days. If the salad is already dressed, I recommend eating it within a few hours for best flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Creating this Strawberry Avocado Corn Salad is more than just putting ingredients together; it’s a joyful culinary experience! The vibrant colors and flavors dance together, bringing a burst of summertime joy to your plate. Each bite offers a delightful mix of sweet, creamy, and crunchy, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a picnic with friends, this salad will always impress. I hope it brings as much happiness to your kitchen as it does to mine. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

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