Grilled Corn Avocado Salad with Limecilantro Dressing

Q: Can I make this grilled corn and avocado salad ahead of time for my summer cookout?

You *can*, but it's best served fresh! The avocado can brown, so if you're making it ahead, toss the diced avocado with a little extra lime juice to help prevent that. Prepare all the ingredients separately and mix them together just before serving for the best results. Think of it like preparing for a potluck – the fresher, the better!

Sunshine in a Bowl Grilled Corn Avocado Summer Cookout Side Dish

By Mateo GarciaSeptember 25, 2025

4.50 (6 Ratings)

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy a bit of sunshine on a plate? Honestly, who doesn't? This Grilled Corn & Avocado Salad is the perfect summer cookout side dish .

It’s got that sweet corn, creamy avocado thing going on, with a zesty lime kick that'll wake up your taste buds.

Brief Overview

This salad is basically a summer party in a bowl. It is inspired from Mexican recipes. It’s dead easy to make and takes about 35 minutes tops.

The recipe yields 6-8 servings, perfect for a family barbie or bringing to a potluck side dish idea .

Main Benefits

Okay, right then, let's get this salad sorted! This recipe is packed with healthy fats from the avocado and fiber from the corn.

Perfect for serving at any summer BBQ sides occasion. What makes it special? The flavor explosion, mate!

Sunshine in a Bowl: Grilled Corn & Avocado Salad

What Makes This So Special?

This ain't your average salad, I tell you what. We're talking grilled corn for that smoky sweetness, combined with creamy avocado and a zingy dressing.

Think healthy summer salads with a bit of oomph . It's a game changer! The star here is definitely the lime cilantro dressing !

Time to Get Cracking

This recipe is super easy. Even if you’re a beginner. It is quick to make too. Just what you need when the sun is shining and the barbie is calling. You know?

What You'll Need: The Gear

You'll need a grill, obviously, or a grill pan if the weather's not playing ball. A large bowl to mix everything up and a small bowl for the dressing.

And a whisk. Because nobody likes lumpy dressing.

Okay, right then, let's get this salad sorted!

Here's a rundown of our star players for this avocado salad recipe :

6 ears of corn, shucked
2 ripe avocados, pitted and diced
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 red onion, finely diced
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Okay, right then, let's get this salad sorted! Summer BBQ sides don't get easier than this!

Let's Get Cooking!

First, grill the corn until it's lightly charred and sweet. Then, chop everything else and whisk up that killer dressing.

Mix it all together and boom. Easy cookout recipes , are the best. Perfect for a vegan BBQ sides option too! And you can make-ahead cookout sides if you like as well.

This would be a corn and tomato salad if we excluded the avocado.

This is the perfect summer cookout side dish . It is sunshine in a bowl, mate. So grab your ingredients, fire up the grill and get ready for a flavour explosion!

Ingredients & Equipment for Sunshine in a Bowl

Okay, right then, let's get this ingredient salad sorted! Here's what you'll need to whip up this amazing grilled corn salad and get a top summer cookout side dishes .

It's easier than you think, honestly.

Main Ingredients: The Heart of the Matter

Corn: 6 ears , shucked (about 1.5 kg ). Fresh is best! Look for plump kernels. Avoid any with brown spots.
Avocado: 2 ripe ones (about 400g ). They should yield to gentle pressure. Think of it as avocado salad recipe gold.
Cherry Tomatoes: 1 pint (about 300g ). The brighter, the better!
Red Onion: 1/2 medium (about 75g ). Adds a lovely bite.
Cilantro: 1/4 cup , chopped (about 10g ). If you are like me and love cilantro, then use even more!
Lime Juice: 1/4 cup (about 60ml ). Freshly squeezed is key.
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (about 30ml ). Go for a good quality one!
Garlic: 1 clove , minced (about 3g ). Essential for flavour.
Cumin: 1/2 teaspoon (about 2g ). Adds warmth and depth.
Chili Powder: 1/4 teaspoon (about 1g ). Just a touch for a subtle kick.
Salt and Pepper: To taste. Season generously.

Seasoning Notes: The Magic Touch

The combination of lime, cilantro, and cumin is pure magic! This lime cilantro dressing makes this salad sing. If you don’t have cumin, paprika will work in a pinch.

A dash of smoked paprika could really be fun too!

Honestly, don't be shy with the salt. It really brings out all the flavors. If you want a vegan BBQ sides , make sure your spices are, too!.

Some spices use animal products in the processing.

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple

Grill (or grill pan): To char the corn. Grilled corn salad just isn't the same without that char!
Large Bowl: For mixing the salad.
Small Bowl: For whisking the dressing.
Whisk: To emulsify the dressing. A fork will work too.

You don’t need fancy gadgets to make great easy cookout recipes . Sometimes less is more, you know? If you don't have a grill, a grill pan on the stovetop works just fine.

I've even done it under the broiler just keep a close eye on it! This also makes a lovely make-ahead cookout sides .

Cooking Method: Grilling Corn for Summer Cookout Side Dishes

Oh my gosh, summer is here, right? And you know what that means. It's time for summer BBQ sides . This grilled corn and avocado salad is the perfect easy cookout recipes to wow your friends! Plus, it's a total breeze to make.

Prep Steps: Let's Get Organized, Yeah?

Essential mise en place: Shuck your corn, dice your red onion, halve your tomatoes. Get it all ready!
Time saving organization tips: Chop everything before firing up the grill. Trust me, it helps.
Safety reminders: Grills get HOT. Use tongs, not your bare hands, okay?

step-by-step: How to Grill Corn Like a Boss

Preheat your grill to medium high heat . This is key.
Grill the corn. Turn it now and again, until kernels are tender and lightly charred. About 12- 15 minutes .
Let the corn cool. Don't burn your fingers!
Cut the kernels off the cob using a sharp knife. Be careful!
Combine the corn, avocado, tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro in a bowl.
Whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Pour dressing over salad. Gently toss.

Pro Tips: Secrets for a Killer Salad

Don't overcook the corn! You want that char, but not mush.
Make the lime cilantro dressing ahead of time to let the flavors meld. This is a great make-ahead cookout sides option.
Common mistake: soggy salad! Dress it right before serving. That way your avocado salad recipe isn't a mushy mess, Right Then?

So there you have it! This grilled corn salad is perfect for a potluck side dish ideas , a vegan BBQ sides , or just a simple summer evening.

It's a healthy summer salad option with a zesty kick. And honestly? It's just plain delicious.

Recipe Notes

Okay, right then, let's get this summer cookout side dishes sorted! This Grilled Corn & Avocado Salad isn't just some random salad.

It's sunshine in a bowl, mate! It's perfect for those summer BBQ sides we all crave. Honestly, I made this last week, and it was gone in minutes.

Serving Sunshine Plating and Presentation

Right, so you've made this amazing salad. Now, let's make it look as good as it tastes! I like to plate it in a big, colorful bowl.

Think fiesta vibes, yeah? Garnish with extra cilantro and a lime wedge for that extra oomph .

For sides, it goes brilliantly with grilled chicken or some halloumi skewers. A cheeky glass of iced tea or even a Pimm's wouldn't go amiss, you know? It also pairs perfectly with a Watermelon salad with feta and mint .

Storage Secrets - Keepin' it Fresh

This avocado salad recipe is best served fresh, obviously . But, if you do have leftovers, pop it in an airtight container and shove it in the fridge.

It'll be alright for a day, maybe two. Just remember, the avocado might brown a bit.

Freezing? Nah, don't even think about it. Avocado goes all weird when frozen. Trust me I've been there!. To reheat? Just give it a gentle toss to freshen it up.

Variations Mix it Up, Buttercup!

Fancy a bit of a twist? Go wild! For a spicy kick , chuck in a diced jalapeño. For a vegan BBQ sides , just use a vegan friendly olive oil for the dressing and you're all set!.

Don't like cilantro? Each to their own , I say. Try fresh parsley instead. And if you're looking to make some easy cookout recipes you can make-ahead of time, mix everything except the avocado and dressing up to 24 hours in advance and store it separately, then just combine when you are ready to serve.

That gives you more time to chat with guests.

Nutrition Basics Goodness in Every Bite

This salad is packed with goodness. We're talking healthy fats from the avocado, vitamins from the veggies, and fiber from the corn.

Each serving is about 220 calories , with a decent chunk of protein and fiber. Plus, all that lime juice is a Vitamin C boost.

Winning! It's definitely one of the healthy summer salads you can enjoy guilt free.

Right, get out there and make this. Honestly, this corn and tomato salad is a winner for any potluck side dish ideas .

Don't be shy add your own flair and make it your sunshine in a bowl!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this grilled corn and avocado salad ahead of time for my summer cookout?

You can, but it's best served fresh! The avocado can brown, so if you're making it ahead, toss the diced avocado with a little extra lime juice to help prevent that. Prepare all the ingredients separately and mix them together just before serving for the best results.

Think of it like preparing for a potluck the fresher, the better!

I'm not a grill master! Can I still make this summer cookout side dish without a grill?

Absolutely! If you don't have a grill, you can roast the corn in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the kernels are tender and slightly browned. A grill pan on the stovetop works wonders too! You can even use canned or frozen corn in a pinch, just make sure to drain it well.

I'm looking for easy summer cookout side dishes - how long will this salad last in the fridge?

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The avocado may brown a bit, but it will still taste delicious. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep it as fresh as possible.

This helps prevent the avocado from going south and ensures your sunshine bowl doesn't become a dull drizzle!

Can I add any other veggies or protein to this summer cookout side dish?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative. Black beans add a great protein and fiber boost. Diced bell peppers or cucumbers would add a nice crunch. Grilled chicken or shrimp would also be a tasty addition to make it a more substantial meal. It’s your cookout, so go wild and make it your own!

Is this grilled corn and avocado salad healthy? What's the nutritional lowdown?

This salad is packed with goodness! It's full of healthy fats from the avocado, fiber from the corn, and antioxidants from the tomatoes. It also has a moderate amount of calories around 220 per serving. You can reduce the calories by using less olive oil or adding more greens.

Enjoy responsibly, just like a good pint down the pub!

My family doesn't like cilantro. What's a good substitute for the lime cilantro dressing in this summer cookout side dishes recipe?

No worries, cilantro can be a bit divisive, like Marmite! Try substituting fresh parsley, basil, or even mint for a similar fresh, herby flavor. You could also use a premade Italian dressing or a simple vinaigrette. A little finely chopped chives would also add a nice, subtle oniony flavor.