Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Our Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that elevates any meal. This salad combines the crispness of cucumbers, the juiciness of ripe tomatoes, and the creaminess of avocados, all tossed in a zesty lemon dressing. Perfect for picnics, BBQs, or as a light side dish, it’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Enjoy this colorful medley as a quick snack or a centerpiece at your next gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it an easy choice for busy days.
- Fresh Ingredients: Each bite bursts with flavor from fresh tomatoes and avocados, ensuring every mouthful is delightful.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side at dinner or enjoy it as a light lunch; its versatility makes it fit for any occasion.
- Nutritious & Healthy: Packed with healthy fats from avocados and vitamins from veggies, this salad is good for you.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like cheese or nuts to make it your own!
Tools and Preparation
Preparing the Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is simple with the right tools in hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large salad bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large salad bowl: Essential for mixing all the ingredients without spilling.
- Sharp knife: Helps in cutting vegetables easily and safely, ensuring uniform pieces for even flavor distribution.
Ingredients
Our classic cucumber and tomato salad just got better with the addition of avocado, a lemon dressing and fresh cilantro.
Fresh Produce
- 1 lb Roma tomatoes
- 1 English cucumber
- 1/2 medium red onion (sliced)
- 2 avocados (diced)
- 1/4 cup 1/2 bunch cilantro, chopped
Dressing & Seasoning
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil or sunflower oil
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice (from 1 medium lemon)
- 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
- Place chopped tomatoes into a large salad bowl.
- Add sliced cucumber and sliced red onion to the bowl.
- Gently fold in diced avocados and chopped cilantro.
Step 2: Add Dressing
- Drizzle the mixture with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Squeeze in 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice.
- Toss gently to combine all ingredients without mashing the avocados.
Step 3: Season and Serve
- Just before serving, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon sea salt and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper.
- Give one final gentle toss to distribute seasoning evenly.
This delightful Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad serves four as a perfect side dish or light snack! Enjoy its bright flavors at any gathering or as part of your everyday meals.
How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a refreshing dish perfect for various occasions. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your salad experience.
As a Light Lunch
- Pair with whole-grain pita bread for a satisfying meal.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp on top for extra protein.
With Grilled Meats
- Serve alongside grilled steaks or chicken for a vibrant contrast.
- The salad acts as a cooling side to spicy barbecue dishes.
At Family Gatherings
- Present in a large bowl for family-style serving.
- Garnish with additional cilantro to enhance visual appeal.
For Picnics and Potlucks
- Pack in a portable container for easy transport.
- Include biodegradable utensils for an eco-friendly option.
As an Appetizer
- Serve in small cups or jars for individual portions.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese for added flavor and texture.
How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad, consider these tips:
- Use ripe avocados – Choose avocados that yield slightly when pressed; this ensures creaminess.
- Fresh herbs matter – Opt for fresh cilantro instead of dried; it adds vibrant flavor.
- Season just before serving – Add salt and pepper right before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.
- Chill before serving – Refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes; this enhances the flavors and makes it refreshing.
- Customize your veggies – Feel free to add bell peppers or radishes for crunch and color.
Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad pairs well with many side dishes, making it versatile. Here are some great options:
- Grilled Chicken Skewers – Juicy marinated chicken adds protein and complements the salad’s freshness.
- Quinoa Pilaf – A nutty side that provides texture; prepare with herbs and nuts for added flavor.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness; consider zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots.
- Hummus with Pita Chips – Creamy hummus offers a delightful dip alongside crunchy pita chips, ideal as an appetizer.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn enhances summer vibes; grill or boil and serve with butter.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread provides comfort and richness, balancing the salad’s lightness.
- Baked Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy fries are a healthier alternative to regular fries that pair beautifully with the salad.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful peppers filled with rice and beans make a hearty side that complements the fresh flavors of the salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people make simple mistakes when preparing a Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad. Here are some common errors and how to steer clear of them.
- Skip the seasoning: Failing to add salt and pepper can leave your salad bland. Always season just before serving for a fresh flavor.
- Neglect the freshness: Using overripe avocados or wilted vegetables can ruin the dish. Choose firm, ripe produce for the best results.
- Rush the chopping: Cutting ingredients unevenly can affect texture and presentation. Take your time to chop everything into uniform pieces.
- Forget about the dressing: Skipping the lemon juice or oil can lead to a dry salad. Ensure you toss with dressing right before serving for maximum taste.
- Ignore ingredient ratios: Overloading on one vegetable can overwhelm the flavors. Stick to the ratios in the recipe for a balanced dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Best eaten within 2 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Not recommended as it affects texture and taste.
- If necessary, freeze components separately (tomatoes, cucumbers) without dressing.
Reheating Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat for 5-10 minutes, but avoid cooking avocado.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring in between. Be cautious not to overcook.
- Stovetop: Gently warm on low heat in a pan if needed, ensuring not to cook the avocado.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad.
How do I choose ripe avocados for my salad?
Look for avocados that are slightly soft when pressed gently but not mushy. They should have a dark color.
Can I make Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best to prepare it up to a few hours in advance and add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
What can I substitute for cilantro in this salad?
You can use parsley or chives as alternatives if you’re not fond of cilantro’s flavor.
Is Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad healthy?
Absolutely! This salad is packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and healthy fats from avocados.
Final Thoughts
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a refreshing and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. You can customize it by adding proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas, making it a delightful main course or side dish. Try this recipe today, and enjoy its vibrant flavors!
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocados, all drizzled with a zesty lemon dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a light side dish, this salad not only tantalizes the taste buds but also packs a nutritional punch.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Roma tomatoes
- 1 English cucumber
- 1/2 medium red onion (sliced)
- 2 ripe avocados (diced)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Sea salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large salad bowl, combine chopped tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and red onion.
- Gently fold in diced avocados and chopped cilantro.
- Drizzle with olive oil and fresh lemon juice; toss gently to combine without mashing the avocados.
- Season with salt and pepper just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
