Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad with Harissa Ranch
Salads are a staple in any kitchen, but sometimes they need a little twist to keep them exciting and flavorful. Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad with Harissa Ranch is a vibrant and bold dish that’s perfect for summer meals, barbecues, or even a light lunch. The smoky grilled corn paired with creamy avocado and topped with a spicy harissa ranch dressing makes for a refreshing yet hearty salad that’s full of flavor. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and packed with nutrients!
Why Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad?
This salad brings together the sweetness of grilled corn, the richness of creamy avocado, and the tangy heat of harissa ranch. It's a winning combination for anyone looking for a salad that is:
Full of flavor: The grilled corn adds a smoky depth, while the avocado brings a creamy texture that balances perfectly with the spicy harissa ranch dressing.
Nutrient-rich: Corn and avocado are packed with vitamins and healthy fats, making this salad both delicious and good for you.
Versatile: You can serve it as a side dish at a summer BBQ, or enjoy it as a light and satisfying meal on its own.
Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish!
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Ingredients for Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad
This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that are easy to find and come together quickly:
For the Salad:
4 ears of corn on the cob
2 ripe avocados, diced
1 medium red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Harissa Ranch Dressing:
1/2 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
1-2 tablespoons harissa paste (depending on your preferred spice level)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad with Harissa Ranch.
Step 1: Grill the Corn
The first step to making this salad is grilling the corn. This brings out its natural sweetness and adds that irresistible smoky flavor.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Husk the corn and remove the silk. Brush the corn with a little bit of olive oil to ensure it doesn’t stick to the grill.
Place the corn on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes, or until the kernels are slightly charred and tender.
Once the corn is done, remove it from the grill and let it cool for a few minutes before cutting the kernels off the cob.
Grilling the corn is a great way to enhance the flavor and add a touch of smokiness to the salad.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
While the corn is grilling, it’s time to make the harissa ranch dressing. This dressing adds a spicy, tangy kick to the salad, making it the perfect complement to the sweet and creamy ingredients.
In a bowl, combine the ranch dressing and harissa paste. Start with one tablespoon of harissa if you prefer a milder heat, or add more for a spicier kick.
Add the lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
The harissa ranch dressing brings together creamy ranch with the boldness of harissa, making this salad stand out.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Now that the corn is grilled and the dressing is ready, it's time to assemble the salad.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grilled corn kernels, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. These fresh ingredients add a variety of textures and flavors to the salad.
Drizzle the harissa ranch dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently. Make sure everything is well-coated in the creamy, spicy dressing.
Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with extra cilantro or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired.
The avocado provides a creamy base that perfectly balances the crunch of the corn and the heat of the harissa ranch. It’s a textural contrast that makes each bite deliciously satisfying.
Tips for the Perfect Salad
Customize the spice level: If you’re not familiar with harissa or want to tone down the heat, feel free to adjust the amount of harissa paste in the dressing. Start with a little and gradually increase to match your heat tolerance.
Add some crunch: For extra texture, consider adding some toasted nuts like almonds or pumpkin seeds, or even crispy tortilla chips.
Make it a meal: Add some protein, like grilled chicken or black beans, to make this salad a complete meal. The flavors complement each other well, and it adds heartiness to the dish.
Serve it chilled or at room temperature: This salad is versatile, and it can be served right after it’s made, or you can chill it for a bit to let the flavors meld together. Either way, it’s delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
Smoky and Sweet: The grilled corn adds a smoky depth that contrasts beautifully with the creamy avocado and spicy harissa ranch dressing.
Balanced Flavors: From the sweetness of the corn to the heat from the harissa, every bite is a flavor explosion.
Easy to Make: With minimal prep and cook time, this salad comes together quickly for a satisfying dish that doesn’t take hours to prepare.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you're hosting a summer BBQ, looking for a side dish for dinner, or simply need a fresh and healthy lunch, this Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad fits the bill.
This Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad with Harissa Ranch is an exciting and flavorful twist on a classic salad. The grilled corn provides a smoky sweetness, the avocado adds creaminess, and the harissa ranch dressing gives it a spicy, tangy kick that makes the salad stand out. It’s the perfect dish for warm weather, easy to make, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a fresh, satisfying, and bold salad that will quickly become a favorite!
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Source: Minimalist Baker
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