Tropical Charred Corn and Avocado (Printable Version)

Bright tropical mix of charred corn, avocado, pineapple and lime for a fresh, easy summer side.

# What You Need:

→ Vegetables & Fruits

01 - 3 ears fresh corn, husked
02 - 2 ripe avocados, diced
03 - 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
04 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
05 - ½ small red onion, finely chopped
06 - ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
07 - 1 small red chili, thinly sliced (optional)

→ Dressing

08 - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
09 - Juice of 2 limes
10 - 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
11 - ½ teaspoon ground cumin
12 - Salt and black pepper to taste

# Directions:

01 - Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill corn cobs, turning frequently, until lightly charred on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Let cool, then cut kernels off the cob.
02 - In a large bowl, combine charred corn kernels, diced avocado, pineapple, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and sliced chili if using.
03 - In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey or agave syrup, ground cumin, salt, and pepper until well blended.
04 - Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
05 - Serve immediately or chill for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The char on the corn adds a depth you simply cannot get from boiling or steaming, and it takes almost no effort.
  • Pineapple and lime together create this tropical punch that makes people ask what your secret is.
  • Everything comes together in under thirty minutes with no oven required, which is a lifesaver on hot days.
02 -
  • Avocado browns quickly once cut, so this salad is best assembled and eaten within two hours of making it.
  • If you chill it for too long the pineapple loses its bright snap and the texture of everything softens into mush.
03 -
  • Pat the corn completely dry with a clean towel before grilling because excess moisture causes steaming instead of charring.
  • Roll the limes firmly on the counter before juicing to release more liquid and get every last drop.