Grilled Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad is the kind of dish that makes your taste buds do a happy dance. Imagine succulent grilled corn, mixed with creamy avocado, all tossed together with pasta that swirls like it’s auditioning for a spot in a food magazine. The flavors burst in your mouth, each bite is a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and oh-so-satisfying textures that make this salad a showstopper at any gathering.
There’s nothing like a summer barbecue where friends gather around, drinks in hand, and laughter fills the air. This Grilled Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad has become my go-to dish for these sunny occasions. It’s not just delicious; it’s the perfect companion to those nostalgic summer nights that slip away too quickly. You can practically hear the sizzling corn on the grill and smell the fresh herbs mingling in the air as you whip up this vibrant salad.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Grilled Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy cooks
- The flavor profile brings together sweet grilled corn with creamy avocado for an unforgettable taste experience
- Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning, ensuring it stands out on any table
- Versatile enough to be served at picnics or potlucks, this dish is sure to impress guests and family alike
Ingredients for Grilled Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pasta: Choose your favorite shape—penne or fusilli works great! Cook until al dente for the best texture.
Fresh Corn: Grill fresh corn on the cob to bring out its sweetness; frozen corn will work too if you’re in a pinch.
Avocados: Use ripe avocados that yield slightly when pressed; they add creaminess and richness to the salad.
Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for sweet cherry tomatoes; their juicy pop complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Red Onion: Dice finely for a nice crunch and tang; soaking them in cold water first can mellow their flavor.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens up the dish with its unique flavor; feel free to substitute parsley if you’re not a fan.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds acidity and balances out the richness of the avocado.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil enhances flavors and helps combine all ingredients seamlessly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Grilled Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Grill the Corn
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove husks from fresh corn and brush with olive oil. Grill each ear for about 10-15 minutes until charred and tender, turning occasionally.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While your corn grills away, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
Step 3: Prepare Other Ingredients
Chop your avocados into bite-sized pieces. Halve cherry tomatoes and finely dice red onion. For added zest, chop fresh cilantro.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Once grilled corn has cooled slightly, cut kernels off the cob into a large mixing bowl. Add cooked pasta along with chopped avocados, tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
Step 5: Dress It Up
In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil. Pour over pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer your colorful salad into serving bowls or plates. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for about an hour to let flavors meld even more!
Now take a moment to admire your culinary masterpiece before diving in! This Grilled Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad isn’t just food; it’s an experience worth savoring during those warm summer nights filled with laughter and good company!
You Must Know
- This grilled corn & avocado pasta salad offers more than just flavor; it’s a colorful, fresh delight that brightens up any meal
- Perfect for summer barbecues or as a side dish, this recipe is easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by grilling the corn until it’s beautifully charred; then cook the pasta according to package instructions while prepping your dressing. Finally, toss everything together for a delicious blend of flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this grilled corn & avocado pasta salad by swapping in cherry tomatoes or adding black beans for extra protein. Different herbs can also elevate the flavor profile—experiment and find your favorite combination.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, enjoy cold; however, if you prefer it warm, gently reheat on low heat while stirring occasionally.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh corn for maximum sweetness and crunch in your pasta salad
- Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente is key to keeping it firm
- Drizzle lime juice just before serving to enhance the flavors and keep them vibrant
Sometimes I whip up this grilled corn & avocado pasta salad for a backyard BBQ, and every time I do, friends rave about how refreshing it is—definitely one for the books! watermelon and feta skewers.
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Grilled Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad?
To make Grilled Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad, gather fresh corn on the cob, ripe avocados, your choice of pasta (like fusilli or penne), cherry tomatoes, red onion, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, salt, and pepper. These ingredients combine to create a flavorful dish perfect for summer gatherings or light meals. Fresh herbs and spices enhance the flavors significantly. You can customize the salad by adding beans or other vegetables based on your preference. For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata recipe.
How long does it take to prepare Grilled Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad?
Preparing Grilled Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. Begin by grilling the corn while boiling the pasta. Once both are ready, chop the remaining ingredients and mix everything in a large bowl. unique potato salad recipe Allowing the salad to sit for a few minutes will help meld the flavors together. This quick preparation makes it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Can I make Grilled Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Grilled Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad ahead of time. Prepare the salad and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to add avocado just before serving to prevent browning. If you want to keep it fresh longer, consider storing the dressing separately and mixing it when you’re ready to enjoy your pasta salad.
What can I serve with Grilled Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad?
Grilled Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also works well as a side dish alongside barbecued meats or sandwiches during outdoor cookouts. BBQ chicken and sweet potatoes For a vegetarian option, serve it with roasted veggies or a light soup. This versatile salad complements many dishes while offering vibrant flavors that enhance any meal.
Conclusion for Grilled Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad:
In summary, Grilled Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients that creates an easy and flavorful dish. With just a few simple steps and minimal prep time, you can enjoy this refreshing salad at any gathering or meal. Remember to customize it according to your taste preferences and seasonal availability of ingredients. Enjoy this vibrant dish as a main course or side that everyone will love! For more inspiration, check out this Spinach Pasta Salad recipe.
Grilled Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad is a vibrant summer dish that combines sweet grilled corn, creamy avocado, and al dente pasta, creating an explosion of flavors and colors in every bite. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or light meals, this salad is not only easy to prepare in just 30 minutes but also a delightful addition to any gathering. Enjoy it fresh or let the flavors meld for an hour in the fridge for an even tastier experience.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 2 ears fresh corn on the cob
- 2 ripe avocados (diced)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/4 cup red onion (finely diced)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Brush corn with olive oil and grill for 10-15 minutes until charred. Allow to cool, then cut kernels off the cob.
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine grilled corn, cooked pasta, avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
- Whisk lime juice and olive oil together; pour over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for an hour to enhance flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
