Our Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that perfectly combines the crunch of cucumbers, the sweetness of tomatoes, and the creaminess of avocados. Ideal for summer picnics, family gatherings, or as a light side dish, this salad brings a burst of flavor to any table. With its bright lemon dressing and fresh cilantro, it stands out as a delicious option that everyone will love.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- Fresh Produce
- Dressing Ingredients
- How to Make Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Step 2: Mix Ingredients
- Step 3: Toss and Season
- How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- As a Light Lunch
- With Grilled Proteins
- On a Bed of Greens
- As a Refreshing Snack
- How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Reheating Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad in advance?
- What variations can I try with this Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad?
- Is this Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad healthy?
- How do I choose ripe avocados for my salad?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This salad takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using ripe tomatoes, creamy avocados, and crisp cucumbers ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side at barbecues, pack it for lunch, or enjoy it on its own as a light meal.
- Healthy Option: With plenty of fresh vegetables and healthy fats from avocados, this salad is nutritious and satisfying.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like feta cheese or olives to make it your own.
Tools and Preparation
To make this delicious Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your preparation process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large salad bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large salad bowl: Provides ample space for mixing all ingredients without spills.
- Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for vegetables, enhancing presentation and texture.
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)
- 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 produce thoroughly under cold water.
- Chop the Roma tomatoes, slice the English cucumber, and slice the red onion.
- Dice the avocados, taking care not to mash them.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
- Place the chopped tomatoes, sliced cucumber, sliced red onion, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro into a large salad bowl.
- Drizzle with 2 Tbsp of olive oil and 2 Tbsp of fresh lemon juice.
Step 3: Toss and Season
- Gently toss all ingredients together until well combined.
- Just before serving, season with 1 tsp of sea salt and 1/8 tsp of black pepper. Toss again lightly to distribute seasoning evenly.
Enjoy your refreshing Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad as a side dish or light meal!
How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a refreshing dish that can elevate any meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy this delicious salad.
As a Light Lunch
- Serve the salad in a wrap for a portable meal.
- Pair it with whole-grain crackers for added crunch.
With Grilled Proteins
- Enjoy the salad alongside grilled chicken or fish for a nutritious dinner.
- The fresh flavors complement smoky meats beautifully.
On a Bed of Greens
- Place the salad on a bed of mixed greens like arugula or spinach for extra greens.
- This adds texture and makes it more filling.
As a Refreshing Snack
- Serve smaller portions as a healthy snack during warm days.
- It’s perfect for picnics or gatherings with friends.
How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
To achieve the best flavor and texture, follow these tips for your Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad.
- Use ripe avocados: Make sure your avocados are perfectly ripe for creamy texture.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate the salad for 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
- Add other veggies: Consider adding bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad pairs well with many side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.
- Grilled Chicken: A simple, seasoned grilled chicken breast adds protein and complements the salad’s freshness.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Serve fluffy quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs as a wholesome side dish.
- Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus with crunchy pita chips makes a tasty snack alongside the salad.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables bring warmth and depth to your meal.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing from the salad.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses enhances the dining experience with varied textures and flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to keep in mind to ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Ingredient Choices: Using overripe or underripe avocados can alter the salad’s taste. Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly when pressed.
- Cutting Sizes: Cutting your vegetables unevenly can affect the presentation and texture. Aim for uniform pieces for an appealing look and balanced crunch.
- Dressing Timing: Adding salt too early can make the salad watery. Season just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
- Ingredient Substitutes: Swapping out key ingredients without considering their flavors may lead to an unbalanced dish. Stick to the original ingredients for the best results, or find compatible substitutes.
- Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Skipping fresh herbs can dull the taste of your salad. Always use fresh cilantro for a bright flavor boost.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Keep chopped avocados separate until ready to serve to prevent browning.
Freezing Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- It is not recommended to freeze this salad due to the avocado and tomato’s texture changes upon thawing.
- If you must freeze it, store without avocado and add it fresh when serving.
Reheating Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Oven: Not recommended as salads are best served cold.
- Microwave: Avoid using a microwave; it will ruin the fresh ingredients’ textures.
- Stovetop: Not applicable since salads should be enjoyed raw.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad.
Can I make Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare all ingredients except for the avocado ahead of time. Add it just before serving for optimal freshness.
What variations can I try with this Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad?
You can add other ingredients like corn, bell peppers, or feta cheese for additional flavors and textures.
Is this Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad healthy?
Absolutely! This salad is packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and healthy fats from avocados.
How do I choose ripe avocados for my salad?
Look for avocados that are slightly soft when gently squeezed but not mushy. Darker skin often indicates ripeness.
Final Thoughts
The Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is not only refreshing but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting seasonings. Try this delightful salad today, and enjoy its bright flavors that are perfect for any occasion!
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Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines crisp cucumbers, sweet tomatoes, and creamy avocados, making it the perfect addition to summer picnics or family gatherings. Tossed in a bright lemon dressing with fresh cilantro, this salad not only bursts with flavor but is also incredibly nutritious. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s an ideal side dish or light meal for busy weeknights. Whether you enjoy it on its own or paired with grilled proteins, this versatile salad will be a hit at any table.
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 under cold water.
- Chop the Roma tomatoes, slice the English cucumber and red onion, and dice the avocados carefully.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, sliced cucumber, sliced red onion, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; gently toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
