Description
Fiesta Corn Salad is a vibrant and fresh summer dish featuring grilled corn kernels tossed with zesty lime dressing, red bell pepper, creamy avocado, red onion, jalapeño, and a drizzle of crema, garnished with fresh basil for an irresistible burst of flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 6 ears corn, shucked
- 3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 lime, juiced and zested
- 1 small clove garlic, finely grated
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 small red bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, finely chopped
- 1 avocado, finely chopped
- 1/2 small red onion, peeled, thinly sliced
- 1 small jalapeño, thinly sliced, seeds and ribs removed if desired
- 2 Tbsp crema
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Grill the Corn: Prepare a grill for high heat and let it heat for about 5 minutes, or alternatively heat a grill pan over high heat. Brush the shucked corn ears with 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil. Grill the corn, turning occasionally until the kernels are nicely browned in spots, about 4 minutes. Remove the corn and transfer it to a cutting board to cool slightly.
- Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the lime zest and juice, finely grated garlic, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil to create a bright and flavorful dressing.
- Prepare the Salad Base: Carefully cut the grilled corn kernels off the cobs, ensuring to collect all the kernels. Add the corn kernels and finely chopped red bell pepper to the bowl with the dressing and toss well to coat everything evenly.
- Add Fresh Ingredients: Gently stir in the finely chopped avocado, thinly sliced red onion, and thinly sliced jalapeño (seeds and ribs removed if you prefer less heat), combining all ingredients carefully to avoid mashing the avocado.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle the salad with crema and top with the chopped fresh basil for a finishing touch that adds creaminess and aromatic freshness. Serve immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- Removing jalapeño seeds and ribs reduces the heat if a milder salad is desired.
- Use fresh lime for the best citrus flavor; bottled lime juice will alter the taste.
- Crema can be substituted with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a similar creamy effect.
- Best served fresh to enjoy the contrasting textures and bright flavors.
- Can be made ahead by grilling corn and preparing dressing; combine with avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Keywords: corn salad, grilled corn, fiesta salad, Mexican salad, avocado salad, summer salad, lime dressing, spicy salad
