Discover a delightful blend of textures and flavors with this Creamy Corn and Bell Pepper Salad, featuring a vibrant mix of avocados, tomatoes, and crunchy bell peppers, all dressed in a homemade creamy dressing.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled and chopped
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 1 cucumber, chopped
- Spring onions, chopped
- 150-200 grams of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 100 grams canned corn, drained
For the Dressing:
- 220 grams of sunflower oil
- 100 ml milk (any variety)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons of Bavarian mustard
- 2 tablespoons of agave syrup (or substitute with honey or maple syrup)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Juice of ½ a lemon
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a blender, combine sunflower oil, milk, salt, black pepper, Bavarian mustard, agave syrup, garlic, and lemon juice.
- Blend until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl, mix together the chopped avocados, bell pepper, cucumber, spring onions, cherry tomatoes, and canned corn.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
Tips:
- Milk Choice: You can use dairy or any plant-based milk such as almond or soy to suit your dietary needs.
- Sweetener Options: If agave syrup is not available, honey or maple syrup are excellent alternatives.
- Add Heat: For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the dressing.
- Serving: This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 hours if needed, making it a perfect choice for gatherings and meal prep.
Serving Suggestion:
The Creamy Corn and Bell Pepper Salad offers a visually appealing and satisfying dish, perfect for various dining occasions. It can serve as an elegant starter for dinner parties, a nutritious side for family barbecues, or a wholesome lunch option. To enhance its presentation, consider layering the ingredients in individual glass cups for a touch of sophistication. Additionally, for those who enjoy a bit of crunch, toasted nuts or seeds like pumpkin or sunflower can be sprinkled on top just before serving. This salad pairs wonderfully with seafood, particularly grilled salmon or shrimp, highlighting the freshness of the ingredients.
Nutrition:
This salad is a powerhouse of essential nutrients beneficial for overall health. Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and help to maintain good cholesterol levels. They also offer nearly 20 vitamins and minerals, including potassium, which helps control blood pressure levels. Bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which support the immune system and skin health respectively. Cucumbers contribute additional hydration due to their high water content, which is crucial for maintaining cellular health and aiding digestion. The addition of corn provides dietary fiber, which promotes satiety and aids in stable blood sugar levels. Each serving of this salad is a low-calorie option that does not compromise on flavor or nutritional value, making it suitable for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
Enjoy this refreshing and creamy salad as a standalone meal or as a side to complement your main dishes, perfect for any occasion that calls for a burst of flavor and color!