Ina Garten’s Avocado Corn Salad is the ultimate warm-weather dish—simple, vibrant, and bursting with flavor. Fresh sweet corn is combined with creamy avocado, tangy lime juice, and a handful of herbs to create a refreshing side that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or casual backyard meals.

Light yet satisfying, it’s a no-cook salad that delivers the kind of effortless elegance Ina is known for.

What Is Ina Garten’s Avocado Corn Salad?

This salad blends sweet, crisp corn kernels with rich avocado and zesty lime dressing. Fresh basil or cilantro adds a fragrant finish, making it a flavorful, quick-to-prepare dish that showcases peak seasonal ingredients.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Avocado Corn Salad

No cooking required – Quick and summer-friendly
Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian – Great for most diets
Packed with texture and flavor – Creamy, crisp, and bright
Perfect for cookouts and BBQs – Always a crowd-pleaser
Easy to prep ahead – Add avocado just before serving
Healthy and wholesome – Full of fiber and heart-healthy fats
Pairs with almost any main – Versatile and refreshing

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Avocado Corn Salad

4 ears fresh corn, kernels cut off the cob (about 3 cups)
2 ripe avocados, diced
½ cup diced red onion
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro or basil
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
2 tablespoons good olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Avocado Corn Salad

Step 1: Prepare the corn

Cut the kernels off the raw corn cobs. If desired, you can blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes, then cool—though raw corn also works well for extra crunch.

Step 2: Make the dressing

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

Step 3: Combine salad ingredients

In a large bowl, add corn, red onion, and chopped herbs. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to coat.

Step 4: Add avocado

Just before serving, gently fold in the diced avocado to prevent browning or mushiness.

Step 5: Serve immediately

Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with extra herbs if desired. Best served fresh.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten’s Avocado Corn Salad

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak – Adds smoky, savory balance
Tacos or quesadillas – Use it as a topping or fresh side
Seared salmon or white fish – Complements seafood beautifully
Burgers or veggie patties – Lightens a heavier main
Tortilla chips or flatbread – Turns it into a quick appetizer
Black beans or quinoa – Makes it a more complete meal
Lemonade or margaritas – Refreshing drink pairings

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten’s Avocado Corn Salad

Use ripe but firm avocados – So they hold their shape when tossed
Try raw corn for extra crunch – Or blanch for a softer bite
Add avocado last – Prevents browning and keeps it fresh
Adjust lime juice to taste – Adds brightness and acidity
Use fresh herbs generously – Basil or cilantro adds fragrance
Serve immediately after combining – Best texture and flavor
Chill ingredients before mixing – Makes it extra refreshing

Creative Variations of Ina Garten’s Avocado Corn Salad

Add halved cherry tomatoes – For a juicy burst
Include black beans or chickpeas – Makes it more filling
Top with crumbled feta or cotija cheese – Adds a salty, creamy element
Use grilled corn for smoky flavor – Enhances depth
Toss in jalapeño or red chili flakes – Adds a kick of heat
Stir in diced cucumber – Extra crunch and coolness
Swap lime for lemon or white wine vinegar – A flavor twist

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten’s Avocado Corn Salad

Best enjoyed fresh – Avocado browns quickly after cutting
Store without avocado if making ahead – Add right before serving
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge – Use within 1–2 days
Toss gently before serving leftovers – Redistribute dressing and herbs
Avoid freezing – Fresh vegetables and avocado don’t thaw well

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten’s Avocado Corn Salad

No reheating needed – This is a cold or room-temperature dish
Let chilled salad sit out for 10–15 minutes before serving – Improves flavor
Refresh with a splash of lime juice or olive oil if needed – Brightens the flavor

Nutritional Value (per serving, approx.)

Calories: 230
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 17g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 260mg

A wholesome, colorful side dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

FAQs

Can I make Ina Garten’s avocado corn salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare most of it ahead, but for best results, add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning and maintain its texture.

Should I cook the corn for avocado corn salad?

Not necessarily. Ina often uses raw corn for its sweet crunch, but you can blanch or grill it briefly if you prefer a softer or smokier flavor.

What herbs go best in avocado corn salad?

Fresh cilantro or basil works best, but you can also use flat-leaf parsley, dill, or even mint for a unique twist.

How long does avocado corn salad last in the fridge?

It’s best enjoyed within 24 hours. If storing, keep the avocado separate and mix it in just before serving.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Avocado Corn Salad is a summer staple that brings freshness, creaminess, and vibrant flavor to your table. With sweet corn, rich avocado, and a simple lime dressing, it’s easy to prepare, beautiful to serve, and endlessly satisfying.