Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad

My family absolutely adores this Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad. It’s become a staple at our summer barbecues, potlucks, and even just quick weeknight dinners. The vibrant colors are instantly appealing, and the fresh, crisp flavors are incredibly satisfying. What I love most is how effortlessly it comes together – minimal chopping, a simple dressing, and you’re rewarded with a salad that tastes like sunshine in a bowl. Even my picky eaters devour it, which is always a win in my book! It’s truly the perfect balance of creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers, all brought together with a zesty dressing. If you’re looking for a salad that’s both healthy and delicious, look no further – this is it.

Ingredients for Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad

• Ripe Tomatoes: (About 2-3 large, or a pint of cherry tomatoes) Provide sweetness, juiciness, and a vibrant red color to the salad. Choose ripe but firm tomatoes for the best texture.
• English Cucumber: (1 large or 2 medium) Offers a refreshing crunch and mild flavor. English cucumbers are preferred as they have fewer seeds and thinner skin, making them easier to digest and more pleasant in salads.
• Avocado: (2-3 ripe avocados) Adds a creamy texture and rich, buttery flavor that perfectly complements the other ingredients. Choose avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure but are not mushy.
• Red Onion: (1/4 – 1/2 of a small red onion) Provides a sharp, pungent bite that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and creaminess of the avocado. Red onion adds a beautiful purple hue to the salad as well.
• Fresh Parsley: (1/4 cup, chopped) Brings a fresh, herbaceous note and vibrant green color. Parsley adds a subtle peppery flavor and enhances the overall freshness of the salad.
• Fresh Dill: (2 tablespoons, chopped) Offers a distinct, slightly tangy and grassy flavor that complements the cucumber and avocado beautifully. Dill adds a unique aromatic element to the salad.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: (1/4 cup) Forms the base of the dressing, adding richness and healthy fats. Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and health benefits.
• Lemon Juice: (3 tablespoons, freshly squeezed) Provides acidity and brightness, balancing the richness of the avocado and enhancing the flavors of all the vegetables. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always preferred for its vibrant taste.
• Salt: (To taste) Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients and brings them together. Use sea salt or kosher salt for the best flavor.
• Black Pepper: (Freshly ground, to taste) Adds a touch of spice and depth to the salad. Freshly ground black pepper has a more pronounced flavor than pre-ground pepper.
• Optional: Feta Cheese: (1/2 cup, crumbled) Adds a salty, tangy, and creamy element that complements the other flavors beautifully. Feta is a popular addition for those who enjoy a slightly more complex flavor profile.

Instructions: How to Make Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by washing all the vegetables thoroughly under cold running water. For the tomatoes, if using large tomatoes, core them and chop them into bite-sized pieces. If using cherry tomatoes, you can halve or quarter them depending on their size. Peel the English cucumber and slice it into half-moons or dice it into cubes, whichever you prefer for salad texture. Peel and thinly slice the red onion. If you find red onion too strong, you can soak the slices in cold water for 10-15 minutes to mellow their sharpness. Pit the avocados, scoop out the flesh, and dice them into cubes. To prevent browning, you can toss the avocado cubes with a little lemon juice immediately after cutting.
2. Chop the Herbs: Rinse the fresh parsley and dill under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Finely chop the parsley and dill using a sharp knife. Set aside.
3. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the chopped tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, and red onion. Be careful not to overmix, especially with the avocado, as it can become mushy.
4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until the dressing is emulsified and slightly thickened. You can also add a pinch of sugar or honey to the dressing to balance the acidity, if desired, but this is optional. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning (salt, pepper, lemon juice) to your preference.
5. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the vegetables in the large bowl. Gently toss the salad to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Be gentle to avoid bruising the avocado and tomatoes.
6. Add Herbs and Optional Feta: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley and dill over the salad. If using feta cheese, crumble it over the top of the salad as well.
7. Chill (Optional) and Serve: While this salad is delicious immediately, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and for the salad to become even more refreshing, especially on a hot day. Serve the Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad immediately as a side dish or light meal. It’s best served fresh as avocado can brown over time, even with lemon juice. If you are preparing it ahead of time, you can prepare the vegetables and dressing separately and combine them just before serving.

Nutrition Facts of Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad

(Per serving, approximately based on 4 servings)

• Serving Size: Approximately 1.5 cups
• Calories: Approximately 250-350 kcal (Calories can vary depending on the amount of avocado and olive oil used)
  • Description: Moderate in calories, making it a healthy choice for a side dish or light meal. The calories primarily come from the healthy fats in avocado and olive oil.
• Healthy Fats: Approximately 20-30 grams
  • Description: High in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, primarily from avocado and olive oil, which are beneficial for heart health. These healthy fats contribute to satiety and help with nutrient absorption.
• Fiber: Approximately 5-7 grams
  • Description: A good source of dietary fiber, mainly from the vegetables. Fiber aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
• Vitamin C: Approximately 30-40% of Daily Value
  • Description: Rich in Vitamin C, primarily from tomatoes and lemon juice. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system and skin health.
• Potassium: Approximately 15-20% of Daily Value
  • Description: Provides a good amount of potassium, mainly from avocados and tomatoes. Potassium is an essential electrolyte that helps regulate blood pressure and muscle function.

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with specific ingredient brands and amounts.

Preparation Time for Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Description: This salad is incredibly quick and easy to prepare. Most of the time is spent washing and chopping the vegetables. The simple dressing comes together in just minutes. This makes it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The minimal prep work ensures you can have a fresh, healthy salad on the table in under 20 minutes.

How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad

This versatile salad can be served in numerous ways, making it a fantastic addition to various meals and occasions. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As a Side Dish:
  • Perfect accompaniment to grilled chicken, fish, or steak.
  • Serve alongside vegetarian main courses like lentil burgers or grilled halloumi.
  • Pairs well with pasta dishes, especially lighter pasta with lemon and herbs.
  • Complements Mexican or Mediterranean-inspired meals beautifully.
• As a Light Lunch:
  • Enjoy it on its own for a refreshing and healthy lunch.
  • Serve it with a slice of whole-wheat bread or pita bread for a more substantial meal.
  • Add a scoop of quinoa or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber to make it a more filling lunch.
• As a Topping:
  • Spoon it over grilled or baked fish or chicken for added flavor and freshness.
  • Use it as a topping for tacos or nachos for a lighter, healthier twist.
  • Add it to bruschetta or crostini for a vibrant appetizer.
• For Gatherings and Potlucks:
  • A colorful and crowd-pleasing salad to bring to barbecues, picnics, and potlucks.
  • Easy to transport and assemble on-site if you keep the dressing separate until serving.
  • Visually appealing and always a hit due to its fresh and delicious flavors.
• Enhance with Protein:
  • Add grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu to transform it into a complete protein-rich meal.
  • Toss in some canned chickpeas or white beans for a vegetarian protein boost.
  • Top with a fried or poached egg for a simple yet satisfying protein addition.

Additional Tips for the Best Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad

To elevate your Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad and ensure it’s always a success, consider these helpful tips:

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients: The simplicity of this salad means the quality of your ingredients shines through. Opt for ripe, flavorful tomatoes, fresh cucumbers, perfectly ripe avocados, and good quality extra virgin olive oil. Using the best ingredients will significantly enhance the overall taste.
2. Don’t Overdress the Salad: Start with less dressing and add more to taste. Overdressing can make the salad soggy and mask the fresh flavors of the vegetables. A light coating of dressing is all you need to enhance, not overwhelm, the natural tastes.
3. Prepare Just Before Serving: While you can chop the vegetables ahead of time (except avocado, which browns), it’s best to assemble and dress the salad just before serving. This ensures the vegetables are crisp and the avocado is at its best texture and color.
4. Mellow the Red Onion: If you find red onion too pungent, soak the sliced red onion in cold water for 10-15 minutes. This helps to reduce its sharpness while retaining its flavor and crunch. Pat them dry before adding to the salad.
5. Prevent Avocado Browning: Avocado tends to brown quickly once cut. To slow down browning, toss the diced avocado with a little lemon juice immediately after cutting. You can also keep the avocado pit with the salad if storing it for a short period, although lemon juice is more effective.
6. Customize Your Herbs: While parsley and dill are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like mint, cilantro, or basil. Each herb will add a different flavor profile, allowing you to tailor the salad to your taste.
7. Add a Touch of Spice: For a hint of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or finely dice a small jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat) and add it to the salad. This can add a nice complexity and kick to the fresh flavors.
8. Experiment with Cheese: If you enjoy cheese, try different varieties beyond feta. Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), crumbled goat cheese, or even small cubes of halloumi can add interesting textures and flavors to the salad. Adjust the saltiness accordingly if using salty cheeses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad

Q1: Can I make Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad ahead of time?
A: It’s best to assemble and dress this salad just before serving to maintain the freshness and texture of the vegetables, especially the avocado which can brown and become mushy. You can, however, chop the tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Prepare the dressing separately as well and combine everything just before serving.

Q2: How do I prevent the avocado from browning in the salad?
A: The best way to prevent avocado from browning is to toss the diced avocado with a little lemon juice or lime juice immediately after cutting. The acidity helps to slow down oxidation. Also, try to minimize exposure to air. If you need to store leftovers, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate for a very short period.

Q3: Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
A: Absolutely! This salad is very versatile. You can add bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange for sweetness and crunch), Kalamata olives (for a salty, Mediterranean flavor), corn kernels (fresh or grilled for sweetness), or even roasted vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a different texture and flavor profile.

Q4: What are some dressing variations for this salad?
A: While a simple lemon vinaigrette is classic, you can experiment with other dressings. Try a balsamic vinaigrette for a richer, sweeter flavor, a creamy avocado dressing for extra creaminess, or a honey-mustard vinaigrette for a tangy and slightly sweet twist. You can also add herbs like oregano or thyme to the dressing for different flavor notes.

Q5: Is Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad vegan and gluten-free?
A: Yes, as written, this salad is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs. Just ensure that all your ingredients, especially the olive oil, are certified gluten-free if necessary for strict dietary restrictions.

Q6: Can I add protein to make this salad a complete meal?
A: Definitely! Adding protein transforms this salad into a more substantial meal. Great protein additions include grilled chicken or shrimp, baked or pan-seared tofu, chickpeas or white beans, hard-boiled eggs, or even crumbled feta cheese for a non-vegan option.

Q7: How long does Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad last in the refrigerator?
A: Due to the avocado and fresh vegetables, this salad is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Be aware that the avocado may brown slightly and the vegetables may lose some of their crispness. The flavor will still be good, but the texture may be slightly altered.

Q8: Can I use a different type of onion instead of red onion?
A: Yes, you can substitute red onion with other types of onions. White onion will provide a milder flavor, while yellow onion will be slightly sweeter. Scallions (green onions) can also be used for a very mild onion flavor and a different texture. If you prefer a sweeter onion, try Vidalia or Walla Walla onions.

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