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

• Easy to Prepare: This grilled corn salad can be made in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using seasonal produce like corn and tomatoes ensures vibrant flavors that burst in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a light lunch, a side for barbecues, or a flavorful topping for tacos and grilled meats.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The creamy avocado and tangy goat cheese pair beautifully with the sweet heat of the vinaigrette.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients and healthy fats, this salad is both satisfying and good for you.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your grilled corn salad with avocado, goat cheese & hot honey vinaigrette, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Mason jar or small bowl for dressing
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that smoky charred flavor on the corn.
• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl allows you to mix all ingredients easily without spilling.
• Mason Jar: Perfect for shaking up the dressing, ensuring all ingredients combine well without mess.

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 (I love heirloom cherry or grape tomatoes!)
• 1 avocado, diced
• ⅓ cup goat cheese, crumbled
• ¼ cup diced red onion or sub 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 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce of choice
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar (or sub 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 step is crucial for perfectly grilling the corn.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

Drizzle the corn with avocado oil. Rub it all over to coat evenly. Season generously with salt and pepper. Place the corn directly on the grill. Turn occasionally until charred and cooked through, about 20 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

Once cooked, allow the corn to cool slightly. Cut the kernels from the cob into a large mixing bowl. Add halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, crumbled goat cheese, diced red onion (or green onion), and julienned basil. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Make Hot Honey Vinaigrette

In a mason jar or small bowl, combine honey and cayenne pepper (or hot sauce). Microwave for 10-15 seconds until warm. Remove from microwave and add olive oil (or avocado oil), apple cider vinegar (or lime juice), dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Secure the lid on the jar and shake well until combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

Drizzle your hot honey vinaigrette over the prepared salad mixture. Toss everything together gently to ensure an even coating of dressing throughout. Taste again for seasoning adjustments.

Step 6: Serve Immediately or Chill

Enjoy your grilled corn salad right away! If preparing ahead of time, it’s best to leave out the avocado and goat cheese until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

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

This delightful grilled corn salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch or a side at dinner, here are some fantastic serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy the salad on its own for a refreshing and nutritious meal. The combination of grilled corn, creamy avocado, and tangy goat cheese makes for a satisfying option.

With Grilled Chicken

• Serve the salad alongside grilled chicken breasts for added protein. The hot honey vinaigrette complements the smoky flavors of the chicken perfectly.

With Fish Tacos

• Pair this corn salad with zesty fish tacos for a fun and vibrant meal. The fresh ingredients in the salad enhance the flavors of the tacos.

On Top of Greens

• Create a bed of mixed greens or spinach and top it with the grilled corn salad. This adds an extra layer of freshness to your dish.

As a Side to BBQ Ribs

• This corn salad works wonderfully as a cooling side to spicy BBQ ribs. The sweetness from the honey vinaigrette balances out the heat from the ribs.

With Quinoa or Rice Bowls

• Add this salad to your favorite quinoa or rice bowl for an extra burst of flavor. It pairs well with both grains, making your bowl more hearty and delicious.

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

Perfecting your grilled corn salad is easy with these simple tips that enhance its flavor and texture.

• Choose Fresh Corn: Freshly picked corn will give you the best flavor and sweetness. Look for bright green husks and plump kernels.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, modify the amount of cayenne pepper or hot sauce in your vinaigrette. Taste as you go!

• Use Quality Goat Cheese: Opt for creamy goat cheese for a richer taste. It will melt slightly against warm ingredients, enhancing overall creaminess.

• Don’t Overcook the Corn: Grill until just charred but not mushy. This keeps the texture crisp and enjoyable in every bite.

• Add Ingredients Just Before Serving: To keep your avocado from browning and maintain freshness, mix it in just before serving.

• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add different herbs like cilantro or parsley for a new twist on flavor. Fresh herbs can brighten up the dish even more.

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

This grilled corn salad is versatile enough to accompany many dishes. Here are some excellent side options that pair well:

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy garlic bread complements the freshness of the salad beautifully, providing a great contrast in texture.

2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These bring sweetness and earthiness that balance out the hot honey vinaigrette’s spice.

3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, which enhances both flavors when served together.

4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or meats make for a hearty side that matches nicely.

5. Grilled Vegetables: Charred vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers reinforce summer grilling vibes while adding more nutrients.

6. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad dressed in olive oil and lemon can complement this corn salad without overpowering it.

7. Caprese Skewers: These fresh skewers offer vibrant colors and flavors that enhance your meal presentation.

8. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed chickpea salad brings additional texture while remaining light, making it an ideal companion dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a grilled corn salad with avocado, goat cheese, and hot honey vinaigrette can be simple, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Corn – Grilling corn too long can make it tough. Aim for about 20 minutes on medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until charred but still tender.

• Skipping Seasoning – Failing to season your corn before grilling can lead to blandness. Always drizzle with oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper for maximum flavor.

• Using Unripe Avocados – An unripe avocado can ruin the texture of your salad. Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly when pressed.

• Making the Salad Too Early – If you prepare the salad too far in advance, the avocado may brown and the ingredients can become soggy. Assemble just before serving for the best results.

• Ignoring Hot Honey Vinaigrette Balance – Not adjusting the sweetness or spiciness of your dressing can impact taste. Start with less honey or hot sauce and adjust according to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Good for up to 2 days in the fridge.
• Best served fresh, so consume quickly to keep flavors vibrant.

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

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad due to avocado and goat cheese textures post-thawing.
• If needed, freeze only the grilled corn separately for later use.

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

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes. This helps retain flavors without making it soggy.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm. Stir between intervals.
• Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until heated through. This method keeps it fresh-tasting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen corn for this grilled corn salad?

Yes, you can use frozen corn! Just thaw and drain it well before mixing into the salad for a quick alternative.

What other cheeses can I substitute for goat cheese?

You can try feta or queso fresco as great alternatives if you prefer a different flavor profile in your grilled corn salad with avocado, goat cheese & hot honey vinaigrette.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version of this salad, skip the goat cheese and replace it with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast. You can also replace honey with maple syrup in the vinaigrette.

Is there a way to spice up the hot honey vinaigrette?

Absolutely! Consider adding minced garlic or chopped jalapeños to enhance flavor and heat in your grilled corn salad with avocado, goat cheese & hot honey vinaigrette.

Final Thoughts

This grilled corn salad with avocado, goat cheese, and hot honey vinaigrette is not only delicious but also versatile! It’s perfect as a refreshing side dish or a light lunch on its own. Feel free to customize by adding proteins like chicken or shrimp or swapping out ingredients based on seasonal availability. Enjoy experimenting!