I do not like potato salad, or pasta salad or really any type of ‘prepared’ salad.  Now don’t get me wrong I LOVE salads, but not the mayonnaise based picnic fair of summer.  It’s the mayo, I’m scared of it, and I’m not afraid to admit it!  But without a doubt, these ‘salads’ are easy, one dish, no additional dressing, just keep them cool and you are golden.

I’d like to submit, for your approval, an alternative, a delicious, easy to make alternative.  No Mayo necessary!

It has all the flavors of summer, fresh tomatoes, vidalia onions, roasted corn, fresh herbs, and avocado, oh the avocado!

You will notice I am using frozen, pre-roasted corn.  Fresh corn is not quite ready here in SENC, so I didn’t roast my own, although I gotta admit it is so super easy just to cut open the bag!  I found this roasted, unseasoned corn at Trader Joes, it is so flavorful!  And did I mention it’s only 2 bucks!

To assemble the salad, dice everything up, and throw it in a big bowl.  Season with a healthy pinch of salt, and some fresh cracked pepper.  Drizzle a couple tablespoons of olive oil over the top, and toss it all together.

Don’t worry about the avocado turning brown, the olive oil keeps it nice and green, even for a couple days!  The flavors blend together so that each bite is a little taste of summer.  I love this salad as a simple side to grilled meats, burgers even Mexican food!

Here’s the recipe –

1-2 avocado(s)

1 pint cherry tomatoes

1/2 green bell pepper

1 small vidalia onion

2C Roasted whole kernel corn or 1 bag frozen, thawed

5-6 large basil leaves

5-6 stems parsley

2T olive oil

Salt and pepper

Thinly slice onion and herbs, halve tomatoes, dice pepper and avocado.  Add them to a large bowl with corn, toss.  Season with salt and pepper, drizzle with olive oil, mix gently.  Chill, serve and enjoy!

I hope you’ll try it, and let me know what you think!

Claire