Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Our Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a refreshing blend of flavors that elevates your typical salad experience. Perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a light side dish, this salad combines the crispness of cucumbers, the juiciness of tomatoes, and the creaminess of avocados. Tossed in a zesty lemon dressing with fresh cilantro, it’s not just delicious but also visually appealing. This dish stands out for its vibrant colors and healthy ingredients, making it a must-try for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this delightful salad.
- Fresh Ingredients: Packed with wholesome veggies and healthy fats from avocados.
- Versatile Dish: Great as a side or main dish; perfect for any meal or gathering.
- Flavorful Dressing: The lemon juice adds a bright zing that complements the ingredients.
- Healthy Choice: Low in calories yet high in fiber and nutrients.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad efficiently, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything comes together smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Salad bowl
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Salad bowl: A large bowl allows you to toss the ingredients without spilling.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for safe cutting and preparation.
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 Addition
- 2 avocados (diced)
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil or sunflower oil
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice (from 1 medium lemon)
Seasoning
- 1 tsp sea salt or 3/4 tsp table salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
Herbs
- 1/4 cup (1/2 bunch) cilantro, chopped
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Begin by washing your Roma tomatoes and English cucumber thoroughly under cold water.
- Dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Slice the cucumber into thin rounds or half-moons based on your preference.
- Slice the red onion thinly.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
- Place the chopped tomatoes, sliced cucumber, sliced red onion, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro into a large salad bowl.
Step 3: Dress the Salad
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice over the salad.
- Toss gently to combine all ingredients without mashing the avocado.
Step 4: Season Before Serving
- Just before serving, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of sea salt and 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper.
- Give it one last gentle toss to incorporate seasonings evenly.
With these simple steps, you’ll have a vibrant Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad ready to delight your guests! Enjoy this nutritious dish that’s bursting with flavor!
How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a refreshing dish that can be served in various ways. It pairs well with many meals, making it versatile for any occasion.
As a Side Dish
- This salad complements grilled meats perfectly, adding a fresh crunch to your meal.
On Top of Grains
- Serve it over quinoa or rice to create a more substantial dish, perfect for lunch.
As a Topping for Tacos
- Use this salad as a topping for tacos or burritos, enhancing the flavors with its vibrant ingredients.
With Bread
- Enjoy it alongside crusty bread or pita chips for a light and satisfying snack.
How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
To elevate your Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad, consider these tips for the best results.
-
Choose ripe avocados: Ripe avocados add creaminess and flavor. Check for slight softness when gently squeezed.
-
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and cucumbers enhance the taste and texture of the salad.
-
Add more herbs: Incorporate additional herbs like parsley or mint for an extra layer of flavor.
-
Experiment with dressings: Try different oils or vinegar types in your dressing to customize the taste profile.
Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
This salad pairs wonderfully with several side dishes. Here are some tasty options to consider:
-
Grilled Chicken: Marinated chicken adds protein and complements the freshness of the salad.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender provide a hearty contrast.
-
Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread offers a delightful crunch alongside the salad’s freshness.
-
Fried Rice: A serving of fried rice can make it a fulfilling meal while balancing flavors.
-
Baked Fish: Lightly seasoned baked fish brings out the salad’s flavors without overpowering them.
-
Pasta Primavera: A veggie-packed pasta dish adds color and nutrients to your table while harmonizing with the salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people make common mistakes when preparing Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad. Here are some tips to ensure your salad turns out perfect every time.
- Using overripe avocados: Overripe avocados can ruin the texture of your salad. Choose firm yet slightly soft avocados for the best taste and consistency.
- Skipping the lemon juice: Not adding lemon juice can lead to a bland flavor. The acidity brightens up the salad and helps prevent avocado browning.
- Overdressing the salad: Adding too much oil or lemon can overpower the fresh ingredients. Stick to the recommended amounts for balance.
- Cutting ingredients too small: Small pieces may turn mushy when mixed. Aim for bite-sized pieces to keep each ingredient distinct and crunchy.
- Not seasoning properly: Failing to add salt and pepper can leave your salad flat. Season just before serving to enhance flavors without drawing moisture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
- Keep refrigerated at all times.
Freezing Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Avoid freezing: This salad does not freeze well due to avocado’s texture change after thawing. Fresh ingredients are key for this dish.
Reheating Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Oven: Not recommended; salads should be served cold or at room temperature.
- Microwave: Avoid microwaving as it will wilt the greens and alter texture.
- Stovetop: Not applicable; serve fresh without heating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad.
What can I add to Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad?
You can include ingredients like feta cheese, olives, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
How long does Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad last?
This salad is best enjoyed immediately but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days if kept in an airtight container.
Can I use other types of tomatoes?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different tomato varieties such as cherry or grape tomatoes for a unique twist on your salad.
Is Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad healthy?
Absolutely! This salad is packed with vitamins, healthy fats, and fiber, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.
Final Thoughts
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a refreshing and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs. Try this recipe today and enjoy its delightful flavors!
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings. This salad combines crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocados, all tossed in a zesty lemon dressing with fresh cilantro. Not only does it look beautiful on your table, but it also provides a healthy dose of nutrients. In just 15 minutes, you can prepare this delightful salad as a side dish for barbecues or as a light meal on its own. Its versatility makes it an essential addition to your summer recipes. Enjoy the bright flavors and colorful ingredients that make this salad a must-try!
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 tsp sea salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)
Instructions
- Wash the Roma tomatoes and English cucumber under cold water. Dice the tomatoes and slice the cucumber into rounds or half-moons.
- Thinly slice the red onion.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, sliced cucumber, sliced red onion, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro.
- Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad. Toss gently to combine without mashing the avocado.
- Just before serving, season with sea salt and black pepper. Give it one last gentle toss.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
