As the summer sun starts to wane, I find myself drawn to vibrant, fresh ingredients that embody the season’s spirit. The first time I whipped up this Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad with Harissa Ranch, my backyard BBQ was transformed into a culinary escape. The sweet kernels of corn kissed by the grill’s smoky flames paired with creamy avocado create a delightful contrast that dances on the palate.
This salad is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for those days when you want a quick, wholesome dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor. With its bold harissa ranch dressing, you’ll discover the perfect balance of spice and creaminess that elevates this dish from simple side to a stellar main attraction. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—great as a light dinner or served alongside grilled meats and fish.
Join me in crafting this colorful, refreshing salad that not only satisfies but also brightens your table and your mood!
Why will you love this Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad with Harissa Ranch?
Vibrant Flavors: This salad bursts with fresh, seasonal ingredients that sing summer in every bite.
Smoky Sweetness: Grilled corn adds a delightful smoky flavor that complements creamy avocado perfectly.
Bold Dressing: The harissa ranch dressing brings a spicy yet creamy twist, making every forkful exciting.
Quick to Make: With minimal prep time, you can whip this up for unexpected guests or a family dinner hassle-free!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or meal prep—this salad is sure to impress both family and friends.
Versatile Option: Serve it as a standalone light meal or as a fresh side alongside your favorite grilled dishes for an amazing flavor pairing.
Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad with Harissa Ranch Ingredients
For the Salad
- Fresh Corn – Grilled to smoky perfection, adding a sweet crunch to the salad.
- Ripe Avocado – Provides creaminess and balances the salad’s textures beautifully.
- Cherry Tomatoes – Adds a burst of juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- Red Onion – Gives a sharpness that complements the other ingredients.
- Cilantro – Fresh herbs enhance the salad’s flavor and add brightness.
For the Harissa Ranch Dressing
- Greek Yogurt – Serves as a base for creaminess; opt for a dairy-free version for vegan needs.
- Harissa Paste – Introduces a spicy kick and depth of flavor; adjust to your spice preference.
- Lemon Juice – Adds acidity to brighten the dressing and enhance all ingredients.
- Garlic Powder – Gives a subtle flavor depth that rounds out the dressing perfectly.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; don’t forget to taste and adjust!
How to Make Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad with Harissa Ranch
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Preheat grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. If using fresh corn, you’ll want it to reach a temperature that ensures those kernels can caramelize beautifully.
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Grill the corn: Place the corn cobs directly on the grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until they are charred and tender. You’ll know they’re ready when they have a nice smoky flavor and lovely grill marks.
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Cool and cut corn: Remove the corn from the grill and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Once cool enough to handle, slice the kernels off the cob and set aside.
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Prepare dressing: In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, harissa paste, fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy, adjusting the harissa to your spice preference for the perfect kick.
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Assemble salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine grilled corn, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro. Gently toss to combine without mashing the avocado.
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Dress the salad: Drizzle the harissa ranch dressing over the salad, adding just enough to coat all ingredients lightly. Toss gently to coat evenly, making sure every flavor gets its moment to shine.
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Serve and enjoy: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or platter. You can serve it immediately for maximum freshness or chill it for about 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Optional: Garnish with extra cilantro or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added texture and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad with Harissa Ranch components are perfect for meal prep lovers! You can grill the corn and prepare the harissa ranch dressing up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully. Store the grilled corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and keep the dressing separate to maintain its freshness. The avocado should be diced just before serving to prevent browning. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepared corn, diced avocado, and salad ingredients, drizzle with the dressing, and give it a gentle toss. You’ll enjoy a fresh, vibrant salad without the last-minute rush!
Expert Tips for Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad
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Grill Timing: Keep an eye on the corn while grilling; overcooking can lead to tough, chewy kernels—aim for that nice char!
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Fresh is Best: Use ripe avocados for the best creamy texture in your Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad. Hard avocados won’t blend in the way you desire.
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Adjust the Spice: Start with a small amount of harissa paste in the dressing, and taste as you go. You can always add more for a bolder kick!
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Mix Gently: When assembling, be gentle while tossing the salad to avoid mashing the avocado. You want beautiful, intact chunks for presentation.
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Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge. It will enhance the flavors as it sits, making your salad even more flavorful!
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Chill to Shine: Letting the salad chill for about 15 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing your dining experience!
Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad with Harissa Ranch Variations & Substitutions
Customize this delightful salad to fit your taste and dietary needs, ensuring every bite is as unique as your culinary vibe!
- Vegan: Replace Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative to keep it creamy while meeting vegan requirements.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the harissa ranch dressing for an extra layer of heat. Adjust to your spice preference!
- Grain Boost: Toss in cooked quinoa or farro for added protein and texture, transforming this salad into a hearty meal.
- Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle toasted sunflower seeds or walnuts on top for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
- Fruit Fusion: Incorporate diced mango or grilled peaches for a sweet twist that elevates the salad’s brightness and richness.
- Herb Swap: Try adding fresh basil or mint instead of cilantro for a different aromatic flavor profile that keeps it fresh.
- Roasted Corn: If grilling isn’t an option, roast the corn in the oven until charred; it brings out a lovely sweetness.
- Creamy Avocado Alternative: Use diced feta cheese or crumbled goat cheese for a tangy, creamy complement to the grilled corn.
Storage Tips for Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad with Harissa Ranch
- Room Temperature: The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure safety and freshness.
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the avocado’s creaminess and prevent browning.
- Freezer: Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in the avocado and tomatoes. Instead, enjoy your salad fresh for the best experience!
- Reheating: If you’ve stored grilled corn separately, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat before adding to the salad again, but avoid reheating dressed salads.
What to Serve with Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad with Harissa Ranch?
Elevate your summer gatherings with delicious dishes that complement this vibrant salad perfectly!
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy and flavorful, these skewers add protein that balances the dish’s freshness while enhancing your BBQ experience.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty and fluffy side that absorbs flavors beautifully, bringing a wholesome addition that compliments the salad’s texture.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their warm sweetness pairs wonderfully with the salad’s spicy dressing, creating a satisfying contrast in flavors and temperatures.
- Spicy Shrimp Tacos: These zesty little bites will add a fun crunch alongside the salad, achieving a bright flavor profile that dances on the palate!
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc elevates the flavors of both the salad and your meal, offering a refreshing sip between bites.
- Black Bean and Corn Salsa: Bright and zesty, this offers a similar corn element while introducing layers of spice and freshness, perfect for dipping!
- Creamy Avocado Toast: Silky and rich, this dish mirrors the salad’s winning avocado and makes for a delightful snack or brunch option.
- Fruit Salad with Lime: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits adds a touch of sweetness, cleansing your palate and balancing the meal perfectly!
- Coconut Rice: Sweet and aromatic, coconut rice brings a tropical flair to your table, enriching your meal’s profile and pleasantries.
Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad with Harissa Ranch Recipe FAQs
What type of corn should I use for this salad?
Absolutely! Fresh corn on the cob is ideal for this salad as grilling it enhances its sweetness and adds a beautiful smoky flavor. If fresh corn isn’t available, you can opt for frozen corn. Just make sure it’s thawed and, if possible, sauté it for a minute or two to capture some char.
How do I store leftovers?
To maintain freshness, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the harissa ranch dressing separate to prevent the avocado from browning and maintain its creamy texture. Just remember to toss the salad with the dressing when you’re ready to indulge again!
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Very! Preparing the harissa ranch dressing in advance actually enhances its flavor. You can store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using to ensure it’s creamy and well-combined.
What if I don’t have harissa paste?
No worries! If you can’t find harissa, you can substitute it with a mix of chili powder, cayenne pepper, and a bit of olive oil for a similar kick. Start with a teaspoon of each and adjust to your spice preference. Alternatively, a store-bought spicy ranch dressing can work in a pinch!
How can I prevent the avocado from browning in the salad?
To keep your avocado looking fresh, consider tossing it in a little lemon juice after slicing. The acid helps slow down the oxidation process that causes browning. Additionally, it’s best to assemble the salad shortly before serving to enjoy the vibrant colors and textures!
Can I freeze this salad?
Freezing is not recommended for this salad. The texture of the avocado and tomatoes will suffer when thawed, resulting in a mushy consistency. It’s best enjoyed fresh, so whip it up when you’re ready for a sunny meal!
Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad with Harissa Ranch Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill corn cobs for about 10-12 minutes until charred and tender.
- Remove corn, allow to cool, then slice kernels off the cob.
- In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, harissa paste, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine grilled corn, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Toss gently.
- Drizzle harissa ranch dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes before serving.