Summer Corn Tomato Avocado Salad

Featured in: Vegetarian Favorites

This summer salad features tender corn kernels, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado tossed with a bright lime vinaigrette. A blend of fresh herbs and finely diced red onion add layers of flavor, while olive oil and a hint of honey balance the dressing. Quick to prepare and naturally gluten-free, this dish shines as a light meal or side, perfect for warm weather.

Updated on Fri, 13 Feb 2026 22:55:09 GMT
Summer corn, tomato, and avocado salad with lime vinaigrette in a white bowl, showcasing fresh seasonal vegetables.  Save
Summer corn, tomato, and avocado salad with lime vinaigrette in a white bowl, showcasing fresh seasonal vegetables. | cinnamonglow.com

There's nothing quite like the symphony of flavors in a summer salad that celebrates the season's bounty. This vibrant Summer Corn, Tomato, and Avocado Salad brings together sweet kernels of corn, juicy cherry tomatoes, and buttery avocado in a harmonious blend that captures sunshine in every bite. The zesty lime vinaigrette adds a bright, citrusy punch that elevates these simple ingredients into something truly special.

Summer corn, tomato, and avocado salad with lime vinaigrette in a white bowl, showcasing fresh seasonal vegetables.  Save
Summer corn, tomato, and avocado salad with lime vinaigrette in a white bowl, showcasing fresh seasonal vegetables. | cinnamonglow.com

This salad reminds me of summer gatherings on the patio, where the simplest dishes often become the most memorable. The sweetness of fresh summer corn pairs beautifully with the acidity of tomatoes and the richness of ripe avocado. With each forkful, you'll experience a perfect balance of textures and flavors that embody the essence of casual, warm-weather dining.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh corn kernels (about 3 ears, or use thawed frozen corn)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
  • 1/2 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the corn
If using fresh corn, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add corn kernels and cook for 2 minutes, then drain and cool. If using frozen corn, thaw and drain well.
Step 2: Combine the vegetables
In a large bowl, combine the corn, cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
Step 3: Make the dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
Step 4: Dress the salad
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
Step 5: Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately, or chill for 15 minutes for enhanced flavor.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best texture and flavor, try to avoid overcooking the corn—it should maintain a slight crunch. When cutting the avocado, wait until just before mixing to prevent browning. If preparing in advance, consider adding the avocado right before serving. The lime in the dressing helps slow oxidation, but the salad is most vibrant when freshly assembled.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This versatile salad welcomes many adaptations. For a protein boost, add black beans or edamame. If cilantro isn't to your taste, fresh basil or parsley make excellent substitutions. For a spicier version, incorporate a finely diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes. In autumn, try roasting the corn for a deeper, smoky flavor that transitions this bright salad into cooler months.

Serviervorschläge

This vibrant salad makes an excellent companion to grilled proteins like chicken, fish, or shrimp. It also pairs beautifully with Mexican-inspired dishes such as enchiladas or tacos. For a simple summer lunch, serve with warm crusty bread or tortilla chips for scooping. At potlucks or barbecues, this colorful dish always stands out on the buffet table and can be easily doubled for larger gatherings.

Colorful summer salad featuring sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and zesty lime dressing on a rustic table.  Save
Colorful summer salad featuring sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and zesty lime dressing on a rustic table. | cinnamonglow.com

As summer winds down, this salad offers a perfect way to savor the season's fleeting flavors. The combination of sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado creates a dish that's greater than the sum of its parts. Simple to prepare yet impressive to serve, it's a reminder that sometimes the most uncomplicated recipes become the ones we return to year after year, creating traditions around the bounty of each summer harvest.

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Recipe FAQ Section

Can fresh corn be substituted with frozen corn?

Yes, frozen corn can be thawed and drained before mixing. Minimal cooking is required if using fresh corn for optimal sweetness.

What dressing components give the salad its tangy flavor?

The lime juice combined with Dijon mustard and a touch of honey creates a zesty and balanced vinaigrette.

Are there good ingredient substitutions for cilantro?

Parsley can be used as an alternative to cilantro if desired, preserving fresh herbaceous notes.

How can I add texture to the salad?

Diced cucumber or toasted pumpkin seeds add a pleasant crunch to the mix.

Is it suitable for gluten-free and vegetarian diets?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free and vegetarian friendly.

Summer Corn Tomato Avocado Salad

A fresh salad combining corn, tomatoes, avocado, and lime vinaigrette for a light, colorful dish.

Prep duration
15 min
Time to cook
5 min
Complete duration
20 min
Created by Hannah Collins

Classification Vegetarian Favorites

Skill level Easy

Cultural Origin American

Output 4 Portion count

Dietary considerations Plant-Based, No dairy, Without gluten

Components

Vegetables

01 2 cups fresh corn kernels (about 3 ears, or use thawed frozen corn)
02 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
03 1 ripe avocado, diced
04 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
05 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Dressing

01 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
02 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
03 1/2 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
04 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
05 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
06 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Method

Phase 01

Prepare Corn: If using fresh corn, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add corn kernels and cook for 2 minutes, then drain and cool. If using frozen corn, thaw and drain well.

Phase 02

Combine Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the corn, cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and cilantro.

Phase 03

Prepare Vinaigrette: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Phase 04

Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.

Phase 05

Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately, or chill for 15 minutes for enhanced flavor.

Tools needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small whisk or jar with lid
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Medium pot (if cooking fresh corn)
  • Colander

Allergy details

Review each component for potential allergens and consult with a healthcare professional if you're uncertain about any ingredients.
  • Avocado (rare allergen)
  • Mustard in Dijon may be an allergen for some

Nutritional breakdown (per portion)

These values are provided as estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 210
  • Fats: 14 g
  • Carbohydrates: 21 g
  • Protein Content: 3 g