Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad

Published: June 25, 2025

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, this salad fits perfectly into your busy summer schedule.
Fresh Ingredients: The combination of fresh herbs and ripe avocados elevates the flavor profile, ensuring each bite is bursting with freshness.
Versatile Dish: Whether it’s a barbecue or a family dinner, this salad complements any meal beautifully.
Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients from corn and avocados, it’s a guilt-free choice that satisfies hunger.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its colorful appearance and delicious taste make it a favorite among guests, ensuring you’ll be asked for the recipe.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad, gather the essential tools. Having everything on hand makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Cast-iron skillet or grill pan
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Cast-iron skillet or grill pan: Ideal for charring corn perfectly while enhancing flavor.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients smoothly without spills.
Whisk: Helps create a creamy dressing quickly by blending all components evenly.

Ingredients

Fiesta Avocado Corn Salad with fresh herbs, jalapeño, toasted pumpkin seeds, and creamy dressing. A slam-dunk summer side dish, this 30-minute salad will be the star of any cookout or potluck.

For the Salad

5 ears of corn, husked
4 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
3 Tbsp. rice vinegar
2 Tbsp. mayonnaise
1 grated garlic clove
3/4 tsp. ground sumac (sub paprika)
3/4 tsp. kosher salt, divided
1/2 tsp. black pepper, divided
1 small shallot, thinly sliced into rings (about 3 to 4 Tbsp.)
2 medium (or 3 small) ripe avocados, peeled and cut into small cubes
1 jalapeño, seeds and ribs removed, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
3 Tbsp. fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
1/4 cup roasted, salted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
3 to 4 Tbsp. crumbled Cotija cheese (sub feta or goat cheese)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad

Step 1: Char the Corn

Add 1 Tbsp. of the oil to a large cast-iron skillet (or grill pan) over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 3 ears of corn, roll in oil, and let sit undisturbed for about 4 minutes until bottoms are lightly charred. Toss the corn every few minutes until it reaches your desired level of char (around 12 minutes total). Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While the corn cools, prepare the dressing by combining the remaining 3 Tbsp. olive oil, rice vinegar, mayonnaise, grated garlic clove, sumac (or paprika), 1/4 tsp. salt, and 1/4 tsp. black pepper in a bowl; whisk together until smooth. Stir in thinly sliced shallots and set aside.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once the charred corn has cooled enough to handle it safely, carefully cut the kernels from the cob and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Cut kernels from the remaining two raw ears of corn and add them to the bowl along with diced avocado, finely chopped jalapeño, roughly chopped basil leaves, mint leaves, pumpkin seeds, Cotija cheese, remaining salt (1/2 tsp.), and black pepper (1/4 tsp.). Pour dressing over salad mixture and toss gently to combine all ingredients well.

Step 4: Serve

Garnish as desired with extra herbs, seeds, or cheese before serving this delightful Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad!

How to Serve Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad

Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad is a vibrant dish that brings freshness to any meal. It pairs wonderfully with various main courses and can even stand alone as a light lunch.

As a Side Dish

Grilled Chicken: The salad complements the smoky flavors of grilled chicken, adding a refreshing contrast.
Fish Tacos: Serve alongside fish tacos for a colorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for summer.
Steak: This salad adds brightness to rich cuts of steak, balancing the meal nicely.

In Lettuce Wraps

Romaine Leaves: Spoon the salad into crisp romaine leaves for a fun, hand-held option that’s perfect for gatherings.
Butter Lettuce: The tender leaves of butter lettuce provide a delicate wrap that enhances the flavor of the salad.

As a Dip

Tortilla Chips: Use this salad as a dip with crunchy tortilla chips for a tasty appetizer or snack.
Pita Bread: Serve it with warm pita bread for an easy and delicious treat at your next party.

How to Perfect Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad

Perfecting your Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad takes just a few simple tips. With these suggestions, you can elevate this dish every time you make it.

Bold Flavors: Use fresh herbs like basil and mint for maximum flavor impact.
Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for ripe avocados and fresh corn to ensure the best taste in your salad.
Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for 15-20 minutes enhances the flavors as they meld together.
Texture Variety: Mix both charred corn and raw corn to achieve an appealing texture that keeps each bite interesting.

Best Side Dishes for Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

Grilled Shrimp Skewers: These add protein and a smoky flavor that complements the freshness of the salad.
Black Bean Quesadillas: A vegetarian option that’s hearty and goes perfectly with the lightness of the corn salad.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with the zesty flavors in the salad.
Spanish Rice: A flavorful rice dish that adds depth to your meal while keeping it vibrant.
Coleslaw: A crunchy side that contrasts beautifully with the creamy avocado in your salad.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized bring warmth to your plate, enhancing every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad can be tricky if you aren’t careful. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Overcooking the corn: Charred corn adds flavor, but overcooking it can make it tough. Keep an eye on the corn and remove it when it’s lightly charred.
Using unripe avocados: Unripe avocados can ruin the salad’s texture. Always choose ripe avocados that yield slightly to pressure for the best results.
Ignoring seasoning: The right balance of salt and pepper is crucial. Taste your salad before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh herbs enhance flavor significantly. Don’t skip them; they’re essential for making this salad vibrant.
Not letting the flavors meld: Allowing the salad to sit for a bit before serving helps the flavors combine. Aim for at least 15 minutes in the fridge after mixing.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad in an airtight container.
It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad

This salad is not ideal for freezing due to its fresh ingredients, particularly avocado.
If necessary, you can freeze just the corn mixture without dressing and avocado, storing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil, and warm the salad gently while stirring.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad unique?

Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad stands out due to its combination of fresh ingredients, vibrant colors, and diverse textures. The mix of grilled corn with creamy avocado creates a delightful experience.

Can I make Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare most components ahead of time. Just wait to add avocado until right before serving to maintain its freshness.

What variations can I try with Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad?

You can customize this salad by adding black beans for protein or swapping out herbs based on your preference. Jalapeños can also be adjusted based on desired spice levels.

Is Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad vegan-friendly?

Yes! By using vegan mayonnaise or omitting cheese altogether, this salad can easily be made vegan while maintaining great flavor.

Final Thoughts

Fiesta Corn and Avocado Salad is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. Its combination of flavors makes it a perfect side dish for summer cookouts or potlucks. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients—enjoy experimenting!

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