I don’t know about you, but when summer rolls around, my cravings shift into high gear for vibrant, fresh dishes that celebrate the season’s bounty. That’s exactly why I adore this Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad! It’s like a party on a plate, and every bite bursts with juicy flavors that remind me of picnics at the park with friends and family.
This salad isn’t just delicious; it’s also quick to throw together, making it my go-to dish for unexpected guests or lazy evenings on the patio. I still remember the first time I made it at a BBQ—the colors were so bright that everyone thought I had spent hours in the kitchen. Spoiler alert: it took me just 15 minutes! So let’s dive right in and get this salad shining on your table!
What’s in Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad?
Cucumbers: The refreshing base of the salad! I love using English cucumbers because they are crunchy and have fewer seeds. Perfect for that crisp bite!
Tomatoes: Sweet, juicy tomatoes add a pop of color and tang. For the best flavor, I like to use heirloom tomatoes when they’re in season, but good-quality cherry or grape tomatoes work well too.
Avocado: Creamy and indulgent, avocado balances the crunch of the cucumber and the juiciness of the tomatoes. I recommend using ripe yet firm avocados to avoid them turning mushy.
Red Onion: A touch of red onion gives the salad some zing. I prefer using a small amount, as it provides great flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
Cilantro (or parsley): Fresh herbs are key to elevating this dish! Cilantro adds a refreshing brightness, but if you’re not a fan, fresh parsley is a wonderful substitute.
Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice not only adds a zesty flavor but also helps prevent the avocado from browning, keeping everything looking fresh and appealing.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil rounds out the flavors and adds richness. Choose a robust one for a deeper flavor.
Is Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Good for You?
Absolutely! This salad is a treasure trove of nutrients and health benefits.
Cucumbers: Rich in water and low in calories, cucumbers help keep you hydrated. Plus, they have antioxidants that contribute to your overall health.
Tomatoes: They are renowned for their high vitamin C content and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that supports heart health. The bright red color isn’t just for show; it’s bursting with nutrients!
Avocado: Often dubbed a superfood, avocados are loaded with healthy fats that are beneficial for your heart. They also provide fiber, which is great for digestion.
However, like any dish, moderation is key. While this salad is incredibly healthy, be mindful of your portion sizes with avocado due to its higher calorie content.
Ingredients List
– 1 large English cucumber, sliced
– 2 cups cherry or heirloom tomatoes, halved
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– ¼ small red onion, finely chopped
– ¼ cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe serves about 4 people as a light side dish!
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad?
1. In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced cucumber, halved tomatoes, and diced avocado.
2. Sprinkle in the finely chopped red onion and fresh herbs.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil. Drizzle this mixture over the salad.
4. Gently toss everything together to combine, ensuring the avocado stays intact.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
6. Serve immediately, or store in the fridge for up to an hour (just know that the avocado may brown a bit!).
Fresh Flavors and Fun Twists
– For a bit of spice, toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes!
– You can add feta cheese or crumbled goat cheese for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.
– Serving this salad alongside grilled chicken or fish makes for a delightful summer meal.
There you have it! I can’t wait for you to make this Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad and bring a taste of summer to your table. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you, and your friends will be begging for the recipe! Enjoy, and let me know how it goes!
