Corn Avocado Salad Recipes

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet corn and creamy avocado—especially when they come together in a fresh, zesty salad.

Whether you’re planning a picnic, a weeknight dinner, or just looking for a healthy snack, corn avocado salad checks all the boxes: it’s bright, colorful, refreshing, and incredibly easy to throw together.

Today, we’re diving into three variations of this summer staple that you can mix and match to fit your mood: the Classic Corn Avocado Salad, a Mexican-Inspired Corn Avocado Salad, and a Spicy Southwest Version.

All three use simple ingredients and are full of fresh flavor and vibrant texture.

Corn Avocado Salad

Cooking Tools:

These recipes are super straightforward, but it’s helpful to have a few kitchen basics ready to go:

  • Large mixing bowl

  • Small bowl for dressings

  • Cutting board

  • Sharp knife

  • Measuring cups and spoons

  • Wooden spoon or spatula

  • Optional: citrus juicer and corn stripper (if using fresh corn)

Corn Avocado Salad Recipes:

Enjoy the perfect blend of sweet corn and creamy avocado with these refreshing Corn Avocado Salad Recipes. They’re quick to make, full of flavor, and ideal for summer meals or light lunches!

1. Classic Corn Avocado Salad

Ingredients List

  • 2 cups fresh, canned, or frozen corn (thawed and drained)

  • 2 ripe avocados, diced

  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • Optional: chopped fresh parsley or cilantro

2. Mexican-Inspired Corn Avocado Salad

  • 2 cups grilled corn (cut off the cob or roasted canned corn)

  • 2 avocados, diced

  • 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained

  • 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper

  • 1/4 cup chopped red onion

  • 1/4 cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese

  • 2 tbsp lime juice

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1/4 tsp cumin

  • Salt and chili flakes to taste

  • Handful chopped cilantro

3. Spicy Southwest Corn Avocado Salad

  • 2 cups corn (grilled or canned)

  • 2 avocados, cubed

  • 1/2 cup chopped cucumber

  • 1/2 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)

  • 1/4 cup green onions

  • 2 tbsp lime juice

  • 2 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt

  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Optional: tortilla strips or crushed chips for topping

Ingredient Preparation

Corn:

  • If using fresh corn, grill it until slightly charred, then slice off the kernels.

  • Canned corn should be rinsed and drained.

  • Frozen corn must be thawed and dried to avoid watering down the salad.

Avocados:

  • Use ripe but firm avocados for clean cuts. Dice just before mixing to avoid browning.

Veggies and Add-ins:

  • Chop tomatoes, onions, peppers, and herbs into small, bite-sized pieces for even distribution.

  • Rinse and drain beans and any canned ingredients thoroughly.

Dressing:

  • Whisk lime juice, olive oil, and seasoning separately before adding to the salad to coat everything evenly.

Recipe Instructions:

1. Classic Corn Avocado Salad

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine corn, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.

  2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

  3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

  4. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve immediately or chill for 15–30 minutes before serving.

2. Mexican-Inspired Corn Avocado Salad

  1. Combine grilled corn, black beans, avocado, bell pepper, red onion, and cotija cheese in a large bowl.

  2. In a separate bowl, mix lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and chili flakes.

  3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, then add chopped cilantro and gently toss.

  4. Serve with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos or burrito bowls.

3. Spicy Southwest Corn Avocado Salad

  1. Mix corn, avocado, cucumber, jalapeños, and green onions in a bowl.

  2. In a small bowl, stir together lime juice, sour cream (or yogurt), paprika, salt, and pepper.

  3. Pour the dressing over the veggies and stir gently to coat.

  4. Top with crushed tortilla chips or strips right before serving for crunch.

Serving Ideas:

Corn avocado salad is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to serve it:

  • As a standalone side dish at summer BBQs or potlucks

  • Alongside grilled meats like chicken, shrimp, or steak

  • Scooped onto tacos, tostadas, or burrito bowls

  • With tortilla chips for a chunky, refreshing dip

  • On toast as a next-level avocado toast

Want to get fancy? Serve it in avocado halves or layered in mason jars for meal prep lunches.

Full Recipes

How to Store Leftovers:

Because avocado oxidizes (turns brown) quickly, these salads are best eaten fresh. However, with a few tricks, you can make the most of leftovers:

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container and eat within 24 hours.

  • Press plastic wrap directly on the surface of the salad to reduce browning.

  • Add extra lime juice to help prevent the avocado from turning too quickly.

  • Don’t add toppings like chips or cheese until you’re ready to serve.

If making ahead, prep all ingredients except the avocado and mix it in just before serving.

Nutrition Stats (Per 1 Cup Serving, Approx.)

Nutrient Classic Salad Mexican-Inspired Spicy Southwest
Calories 280 310 290
Protein (g) 4 6 5
Carbs (g) 20 24 21
Fat (g) 22 24 23
Fiber (g) 6 7 6
Sodium (mg) 180 250 200

Note: These are rough estimates based on standard ingredient amounts.

FAQs:

1. Can I make corn avocado salad ahead of time?
Yes—but it’s best to prepare everything except the avocado. Add it just before serving to keep it fresh and green.

2. How do I keep avocados from browning in the salad?
Toss them in lime juice before mixing in and store tightly sealed with plastic wrap touching the surface.

3. What can I use instead of lime juice?
Lemon juice works well too, or try apple cider vinegar for a slightly different zing.

4. Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! All three versions are naturally vegan if you skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

5. What’s the best way to grill corn for this salad?
Brush fresh corn with oil, grill over medium heat until lightly charred (10–15 minutes), then slice off the kernels.