Introduction
Brighten your table with this Avocado Corn Tomato Salad – a vibrant summer medley that combines sweet corn, creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, crispy bacon, and tangy feta in a refreshing cilantro-lime dressing. Imagine colorful, fresh ingredients tossed together in a creamy yet light dressing that perfectly balances richness and acidity. This salad is a complete flavor explosion ready in just 20 minutes!
Why This Salad Will Be Your New Summer Obsession
Perfect texture balance – creamy, crunchy, juicy
Restaurant-quality presentation with minimal effort
Meal-prep friendly (just add avocado before serving)
Crowd-pleasing combination of flavors
The magic happens when the smoky bacon and salty feta complement the sweet corn and tomatoes, while the creamy avocado ties everything together with the zesty dressing.
Ingredients for a Flavor Fiesta
Salad Base
- 3 ears fresh corn (kernels cut off) or 2 cups frozen
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 6 slices bacon (cooked crispy, crumbled)
- 2 ripe avocados (diced)
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup red onion (finely diced)
Creamy Cilantro-Lime Dressing
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup fresh cilantro
- 1 garlic clove
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Chef’s Tip: Grill the corn first for extra smoky flavor
Step-by-Step Assembly Guide
1. Prepare the Corn
- If using fresh corn, blanch 2 minutes in boiling water
- For extra flavor, char in dry skillet 3-4 minutes
- Let cool completely
2. Make the Dressing
- Blend all dressing ingredients until smooth
- Adjust seasoning to taste
3. Assemble the Salad
- In large bowl, combine corn, tomatoes, bacon, and onion
- Gently fold in avocado and feta
- Drizzle with dressing and toss lightly
4. Serve Immediately
- Garnish with extra cilantro
- Add lime wedges on the side
Professional Tips for Best Results
Grill corn on the cob for smoky depth
Add avocado last to prevent browning
Salt tomatoes separately to enhance flavor
Save bacon grease for dressing if desired
Serving Suggestions
Beautiful Presentations:
- Serve in clear glass bowl to show layers
- Line platter with lettuce leaves
- Garnish with edible flowers
Perfect Pairings:
- Grilled chicken or fish
- Mexican-style entrees
- Iced tea or margaritas
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overmixing (mashes the avocado)
Using underripe tomatoes (lacks sweetness)
Adding dressing too early (makes salad soggy)
Skipping the acid (lime prevents browning)
Creative Variations
For Different Tastes:
- Spicy version: Add diced jalapeño
- Vegetarian: Omit bacon, add smoked paprika
- Extra crunch: Include diced cucumber
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Prep components separately, assemble 30 minutes before serving.
Q: How long does dressing keep?
A: 3-4 days refrigerated – may need thinning.
Q: Can I use frozen corn?
A: Yes, thaw and pat dry first.
Q: What if I don’t have cilantro?
A: Substitute parsley or basil.
Conclusion
This Avocado Corn Tomato Salad with Bacon, Feta, and Creamy Cilantro-Lime Dressing is summer in a bowl – fresh, vibrant, and packed with contrasting textures and flavors. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or need a standout potluck contribution, this salad is guaranteed to impress.
Final Chef’s Tip: For extra presentation points, serve in halved avocado shells! The combination of sweet, smoky, creamy, and tangy flavors creates a salad that’s as delicious as it is beautiful.
Print
Avocado Corn Tomato Salad with Bacon, Feta, and Creamy Cilantro-Lime Dressing
- Total Time: 15 mins
Description
Fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor! This Avocado Corn Tomato Salad is the perfect summer side dish. Simple ingredients come together to create a delightful, healthy, and colorful salad.
Ingredients
2 ripe avocados, diced
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 lime, juiced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine diced avocados, halved cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, finely chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to combine, ensuring everything is well-coated.
Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy immediately.
This Avocado Corn Tomato Salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch!
Notes
This Avocado Corn Tomato Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that’s quick and easy to prepare. Perfect for any occasion, it will add a burst of color and flavor to your meal.
