Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Our Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a refreshing blend that elevates the classic salad experience. With ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, creamy avocados, and a zesty lemon dressing, this dish is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch at home. The combination of textures and flavors makes it stand out, ensuring it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings.
- Fresh Flavors: The vibrant ingredients create a burst of freshness with every bite.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and healthy fats from avocados, it’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side for grilled meats or as a light main dish on its own.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: The colorful mix of ingredients makes this salad visually appealing on any table.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools will make preparing your Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad quick and enjoyable. Here’s what you need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without spilling.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts on vegetables, preserving their texture and appearance.
- Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping 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
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
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Begin by washing all the fresh produce thoroughly.
- Dice the Roma tomatoes and English cucumber into bite-sized pieces.
- Thinly slice the red onion.
- Cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, scoop out the flesh, and dice them.
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 of olive oil and 2 Tbsp of lemon juice.
- Toss gently to combine all ingredients without mashing the avocado.
Step 4: Season Before Serving
- Just before serving, toss with 1 tsp sea salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper for added flavor.
Enjoy your Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad as a refreshing side dish!
How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a refreshing dish that pairs well with various meals. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
As a Standalone Dish
- Perfect for a light lunch, this salad can be enjoyed by itself, offering a refreshing taste that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
With Grilled Chicken
- Serve alongside grilled chicken for a protein-packed meal. The flavors complement each other beautifully, making it an ideal summer dish.
On Toast
- Top slices of whole-grain bread with the salad for a quick and healthy snack. This adds crunch and heartiness to your plate.
As a Side for Fish Tacos
- Pair this salad with fish tacos. Its freshness balances the richness of the tacos, creating a delightful contrast.
How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
To make your Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose ripe avocados: Ripe avocados add creaminess and enhance the flavor of the salad.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh cilantro or parsley brightens the dish and adds aromatic notes.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Adjust seasoning: Always taste and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for the best flavor profile.
- Add crunch: Consider adding nuts or seeds for an extra texture that complements the creamy avocado.
Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad pairs beautifully with many side dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside it.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob
A sweet and smoky addition that complements the fresh flavors of the salad perfectly. - Quinoa Pilaf
This nutty grain dish is filling and adds a hearty element to your meal while remaining healthy. - Roasted Vegetables
Colorful roasted veggies add depth and flavor, enhancing your dining experience with their caramelized sweetness. - Pita Chips with Hummus
Crispy pita chips served with creamy hummus create a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the salad’s freshness. - Baked Sweet Potato Fries
These fries are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, providing a delightful contrast to the salad’s textures. - Stuffed Bell Peppers
Filled with grains or meats, these peppers serve as a hearty complement while keeping things colorful on your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes and tips to prevent them.
- Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted or overripe vegetables can ruin the salad’s taste. Always choose fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocados for the best flavor.
- Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a smaller amount of olive oil and lemon juice, then adjust to your preference.
- Cutting Vegetables Unevenly: Inconsistent sizes can affect the salad’s presentation and texture. Cut all ingredients into similar-sized pieces for an appealing look and even flavor distribution.
- Not Seasoning Properly: Forgetting to season can lead to blandness. Be sure to add salt and pepper just before serving for enhanced taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 2 days in the refrigerator, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Freezing Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Freezing is not recommended as it changes the texture of avocados and cucumbers.
- If you must freeze it, consider omitting avocados and adding them fresh when serving.
Reheating Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Oven: Not applicable; best served cold.
- Microwave: Not recommended; heating will alter texture.
- Stovetop: Not suitable; serve cold for optimal taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad that may help enhance your experience.
How long does Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad last?
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 2 days if stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I customize my Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad?
Absolutely! You can add ingredients like bell peppers, corn, or feta cheese to enhance flavors and textures according to your taste preferences.
Is Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad vegan?
Yes, this salad is completely plant-based and vegan-friendly, making it a great option for those following a vegan diet.
What dishes pair well with Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad?
This salad complements grilled meats, fish dishes, or can be served as a refreshing side with any main course.
Final Thoughts
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a delightful dish that combines freshness with vibrant flavors. Its versatility allows for numerous customization options based on your preferences. We encourage you to try this easy recipe and enjoy its deliciousness at your next meal!
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocados, all tossed in a zesty lemon dressing. This healthy salad is not only quick to prepare, taking just 15 minutes, but it’s also perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a light lunch at home. With its colorful presentation and fresh flavors, this salad is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Embrace the freshness of summer with every delightful bite!
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
- Wash all produce thoroughly.
- Dice the Roma tomatoes and English cucumber into bite-sized pieces.
- Thinly slice the red onion.
- Halve the avocados, remove the pit, scoop out the flesh, and dice them.
- In a large salad bowl, combine diced tomatoes, cucumber, onion, avocado, and cilantro.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; toss gently to combine without mashing the avocado.
- Season with salt and pepper just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
