Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Our Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a refreshing twist on the classic combination of cucumbers and tomatoes, enhanced with creamy avocado, zesty lemon dressing, and fresh cilantro. This vibrant salad is perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to holiday dinners. Its unique flavors and textures will please your guests while providing a healthy and satisfying option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and creamy avocado creates a delightful medley of flavors that burst in every bite.
- Versatile Side Dish: Serve it alongside grilled meats, fish, or as part of a buffet spread. It complements various cuisines beautifully.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad is not only delicious but also supports a balanced diet.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like bell peppers or feta cheese to make it your own!
Tools and Preparation
To prepare this vibrant salad, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Salad bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Salad bowl: A large bowl allows you to mix all the ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing vegetables quick and ensures clean cuts for appealing presentation.
- Cutting board: A stable surface protects your countertops while providing ample space to chop your ingredients.
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
Dressings & Seasonings
- 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
Start by chopping the vegetables.
Wash the Roma tomatoes and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Peel the English cucumber if desired, then slice it thinly.
Slice the red onion into thin rings.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large salad bowl:
Add the chopped tomatoes, sliced cucumber, sliced red onion, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro.
Step 3: Dress the Salad
Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice:
Pour in 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice from one medium lemon.
Toss gently to combine all ingredients without mashing the avocado.
Step 4: Season to Taste
Before serving:
Sprinkle with sea salt (or table salt) and black pepper.
Toss again gently to evenly distribute the seasoning.
Enjoy this delightful Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad as a refreshing side dish at your next meal!
How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a refreshing dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
As a Light Lunch
- Pair with whole grain bread for a fulfilling meal.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
On a Buffet Table
- Serve in individual cups for easy grabbing at parties.
- Offer alongside other salads for variety, such as pasta salad or coleslaw.
With Grilled Meats
- Complement grilled chicken or steak as a vibrant side.
- The freshness balances the richness of smoky flavors.
As a Snack
- Enjoy it with tortilla chips for a crunchy twist.
- Spoon it onto crackers for an easy appetizer option.
How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
To achieve the best flavors and textures in your Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad, consider these tips.
- Use ripe avocados: Ripe avocados add creaminess and flavor. Check for slight softness when gently pressed.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerating the salad for about 30 minutes enhances the flavors. It also makes it extra refreshing on hot days.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference. Fresh ingredients can alter the seasoning needed.
- Add crunch: For added texture, include nuts like almonds or seeds like sunflower seeds. They bring an exciting crunch to every bite.
Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad pairs beautifully with many side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated and grilled, they provide a savory contrast to the fresh salad.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Lightly seasoned quinoa is nutritious and complements the salad’s freshness well.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection add depth and color to your meal.
- Pasta Primavera: A colorful mix of vegetables tossed with pasta offers hearty satisfaction alongside the salad.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Flavorful peppers filled with rice or ground meat create an appealing presentation with this salad.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings sweetness that pairs nicely with the tangy lemon dressing of the salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad, avoiding common pitfalls will ensure your dish is fresh and flavorful. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
-
Using Overripe Avocados: Overripe avocados can have an unpleasant texture and taste. Choose avocados that yield slightly to pressure for the best results.
-
Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro enhance the flavor of your salad. Don’t skip them; they add brightness and depth to the dish.
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Chopping Ingredients Too Small: Cutting veggies too small can make your salad mushy. Aim for uniform chunks to maintain a satisfying crunch.
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Omitting Lemon Juice: Lemon juice not only adds flavor but also prevents avocado from browning. Always include it in your salad dressing.
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Not Seasoning Properly: Under-seasoning can lead to blandness. Make sure to add salt and pepper just before serving for maximum flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store the salad in an airtight container.
- It lasts up to 1 day in the fridge.
- Avoid adding dressing until ready to serve.
Freezing Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Not Recommended: Freezing this salad is not advisable due to the texture changes in avocado and tomato.
Reheating Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C) and warm gently, but it’s best served cold.
- Microwave: Not recommended as it alters the salad’s freshness.
- Stovetop: Avoid reheating; this salad is meant to be enjoyed fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad:
Can I make Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients a few hours in advance but wait to mix in the avocado and dressing until just before serving.
What variations can I try with this Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad?
You can add ingredients like feta cheese, olives, or bell peppers for a twist on the classic recipe.
How do I prevent my avocados from browning?
Adding lemon juice not only enhances flavor but also keeps avocados looking fresh longer.
Is Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad healthy?
Absolutely! This salad is rich in vitamins, healthy fats, and fiber, making it a nutritious choice.
Can I use other herbs instead of cilantro?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley or basil can be great alternatives that complement the flavors well.
Final Thoughts
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a delightful addition to any meal. Its fresh ingredients combine beautifully for a light yet satisfying dish. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins for extra heartiness. This salad is perfect for summer picnics or light lunches!
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a healthy side at any meal. This salad combines crisp cucumbers, juicy Roma tomatoes, and creamy avocado, all dressed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette and garnished with fresh cilantro. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this nutritious bowl that bursts with flavor and color. Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on its own, it’s a delightful addition to your summer menu.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Roma tomatoes
- 1 English cucumber
- 1/2 medium red onion (sliced)
- 2 avocados (diced)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Chop the vegetables: Dice the Roma tomatoes, slice the cucumber and red onion.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro.
- Drizzle with olive oil and fresh lemon juice. Gently toss to combine.
- Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste 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: 320mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
