Fresh Corn & Quinoa Salad with Charred Lime, Feta & Avocado
This refreshing dish blends nutty quinoa, juicy fresh corn, creamy avocado, and crumbled feta in a zesty herb-lime dressing. Charred lime and smoked paprika add depth, while fresh mint, cilantro, or basil brighten the flavor. It’s a perfect warm-weather salad or a light main for late summer and early fall.
Servings 4
Calories 399kcal
Ingredients
Base:
- 1 cup quinoa white or tri-color, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels from 2–3 ears
- 1 ripe avocado diced
- 1/3 cup feta cheese crumbled (or vegan feta)
- 1/4 small red onion very thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs: cilantro mint, or basil (or a mix)
Charred Lime Dressing:
- 2 limes halved (1 for charring, 1 for juice)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp honey or agave optional
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of cumin or chili flakes
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: In a saucepan, combine quinoa and water/broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until fluffy. Let cool slightly.
- Char the Lime & Corn: Heat a skillet or grill pan. Place lime halves cut-side down and cook until deeply charred (about 3–4 minutes).
- In the same pan, dry roast the corn until slightly charred and golden in spots. Set aside.
- Make the Dressing: Squeeze the juice from the charred lime into a bowl. Add olive oil, smoked paprika, honey/agave, salt, and pepper. Whisk well. Taste and adjust acidity/spice as desired.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, corn, red onion, avocado, feta, and herbs. Pour in the dressing and gently toss to coat.
- Garnish & Serve: Top with extra feta, herbs, and chili flakes or toasted pumpkin seeds if you like. Serve slightly warm or chilled.
Notes
Serving Ideas:
This dish is a celebration of contrasts—the smoky lime, sweet corn, nutty quinoa, creamy avocado, and salty feta create a rich mosaic of flavor and texture. The herbs keep it fresh, while the char adds a sultry depth.
Nutrition Facts (per serving, ~¼ recipe)
- As a main dish with a side of grilled veggies or flatbread
- Topped with a poached egg or served alongside grilled halloumi
- As a BBQ side dish or meal prep lunch
This dish is a celebration of contrasts—the smoky lime, sweet corn, nutty quinoa, creamy avocado, and salty feta create a rich mosaic of flavor and texture. The herbs keep it fresh, while the char adds a sultry depth.
- Calories: ~399
-
Total Fat: ~18.2 g
- Saturated Fat: ~3.7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
-
Carbohydrates: ~53.6 g
- Dietary Fiber: ~9.2 g
- Total Sugars: ~6.6 g
- Added Sugars: ~1.4 g (from honey/agave, optional)
- Sugar Alcohols: 0 g
- Protein: ~10.9 g
- Sodium: ~101 mg
- Potassium: ~699 mg
- Calcium: ~79 mg
- Iron: ~3.1 mg
