Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Our Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that brings together the crispness of cucumbers, the juiciness of tomatoes, and the creaminess of ripe avocados. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light side for dinner, this salad is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The addition of a simple lemon dressing and fresh cilantro elevates this salad to something truly special. You’ll love how quickly it comes together and how beautifully it complements any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This salad takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables ensures vibrant flavors and adds nutritional benefits to your meal.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy this salad as a side dish or even as a light lunch on its own.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with healthy fats from avocados and plenty of fiber, it’s great for your diet.
- Colorful Presentation: The bright colors make it visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large salad bowl
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large salad bowl: Provides ample space for mixing ingredients without spilling.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for all vegetables, enhancing presentation.
- Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements help maintain flavor balance in your dressing.
Ingredients
Our classic cucumber and tomato salad just got better with the addition of avocado, a lemon dressing, and fresh cilantro.
Fresh Vegetables
- 1 lb Roma tomatoes
- 1 English cucumber
- 1/2 medium red onion (sliced)
Creamy Additions
- 2 avocados (diced)
Dressing Components
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil or sunflower oil
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice (from 1 medium lemon)
Flavor Enhancers
- 1/4 cup 1/2 bunch cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp sea salt or 3/4 tsp table salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Start by washing all your vegetables thoroughly under cold water.
- Dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Slice the cucumber into thin rounds.
- Chop the red onion into thin slices.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
- Place chopped tomatoes, sliced cucumber, sliced red onion, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro into a large salad bowl.
Step 3: Dress the Salad
- Drizzle with 2 Tbsp olive oil and 2 Tbsp lemon juice.
- Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Season Before Serving
- Just before serving, toss with 1 tsp sea salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper to taste.
Enjoy your fresh and delicious Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad!
How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a refreshing dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side or a light meal, there are plenty of options to enhance your dining experience.
As a Side Dish
- Pair it with grilled chicken for a light and flavorful meal.
- Serve alongside fish tacos to add a cool crunch.
In a Wrap
- Spoon the salad into a whole wheat wrap, adding protein like grilled turkey.
- Roll it up for an easy lunch on the go.
Topped on Toast
- Spread avocado toast with the salad mixture for extra flavor and texture.
- Use crusty bread for added crunch.
As a Standalone Meal
- Enjoy it on its own with some crusty bread for a light lunch.
- Add chickpeas for protein, making it more filling.
For Brunch
- Serve as part of a brunch buffet alongside other fresh salads.
- Pair with eggs benedict for a delightful contrast.
How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
To elevate your Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad, consider these helpful tips that will enhance the flavors and presentation.
- Use ripe avocados – Ensure your avocados are perfectly ripe for the best texture and flavor.
- Chill before serving – Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Add more herbs – Experiment with fresh basil or parsley to bring additional freshness to the dish.
- Customize your dressing – Try adding garlic or mustard to the lemon dressing for an extra zing.
- Adjust seasonings – Taste and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference just before serving.
- Use seasonal vegetables – Incorporate other colorful veggies like bell peppers or radishes for added crunch and nutrition.
Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad pairs wonderfully with many side dishes. Here are some great options that complement its fresh flavors well.
- Grilled Chicken Breast – Juicy, seasoned chicken adds protein and makes the meal more satisfying.
- Quinoa Pilaf – A nutty quinoa pilaf provides fiber and pairs beautifully with this salad’s freshness.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and sweetness, balancing the salad’s tanginess.
- Garlic Bread – Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up salad bites while adding comforting flavor.
- Feta Cheese Dip – A creamy feta dip brings richness that contrasts nicely with the crispness of the salad.
- Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn on the cob provides sweetness and complements the flavors of summer salads.
- Potato Wedges – Seasoned potato wedges offer heartiness without overshadowing the lightness of the salad.
- Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or meats make an exciting side dish that pairs well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch for to ensure your salad is fresh and delicious.
- Overripe Avocados – Using avocados that are too ripe can result in a mushy texture. Choose avocados that yield slightly to pressure but are not overly soft.
- Skipping Fresh Herbs – Forgetting to add fresh cilantro can lead to a bland salad. Always include herbs for added flavor and freshness.
- Using Too Much Salt – Adding excessive salt can overpower the other flavors. Start with a small amount and adjust according to taste before serving.
- Not Chilling Before Serving – Serving the salad immediately can make it less refreshing. Letting it chill for a few minutes enhances the flavors.
- Neglecting Lemon Juice – Omitting lemon juice can lead to an unbalanced taste. The acidity brightens up the salad, so don’t skip this important ingredient.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- item Store any leftover Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad in an airtight container.
- item It will keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days, but consume sooner for best freshness.
Freezing Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- item Freezing is not recommended for this salad as it contains avocado, which may become mushy upon thawing.
- item If you need to prepare components ahead of time, consider freezing chopped tomatoes or cucumbers separately.
Reheating Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Oven – Preheat your oven to low heat (around 200°F) and place the salad in an oven-safe dish for a few minutes until slightly warm; however, it’s best enjoyed cold.
- Microwave – Use short bursts of heat (10-15 seconds) on low power if you must warm it, but avoid cooking it thoroughly.
- Stovetop – Gently warm on low heat in a pan while stirring; ensure not to overheat as it may ruin the texture of the avocado.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about making a perfect Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad, here are some common questions answered.
How do I choose ripe avocados for my Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad?
To pick ripe avocados, gently squeeze them; they should yield slightly without feeling mushy. Look for dark green skin that feels firm yet gives a bit when pressed.
Can I add other ingredients to my Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding ingredients like bell peppers, corn, or even crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor.
What type of tomatoes work best in this salad?
Roma tomatoes are ideal due to their firm texture and sweet flavor. You can also use cherry or grape tomatoes for added sweetness and color.
Is there a way to make this salad more filling?
You can make your Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad more filling by adding protein sources like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can chop vegetables ahead of time and mix them just before serving. This helps preserve their crunchiness and flavor.
Final Thoughts
The Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is not only refreshing but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or dressings based on your taste preferences. This easy-to-make side dish is perfect for any occasion—be it a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner. Give it a try, and enjoy all the vibrant flavors!
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 4
Description
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a delightful medley of fresh flavors and textures that will elevate any meal. This vibrant dish combines the cool crunch of cucumbers, the juicy sweetness of ripe tomatoes, and the creamy richness of avocados, all tossed in a zesty lemon dressing.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Roma tomatoes
- 1 English cucumber
- 1/2 medium red onion (sliced)
- 2 avocados (diced)
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)
- Sea salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and prepare all vegetables: dice tomatoes, slice cucumber, and chop red onion.
- In a large salad bowl, combine chopped tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; toss gently to combine.
- Season with sea salt and black pepper before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
