Our Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for any occasion. The combination of fresh ingredients like juicy Roma tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and creamy avocados creates a refreshing salad that’s both nutritious and satisfying. This salad is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to complement any meal, making it an ideal choice for picnics, barbecues, or casual dinners. With a zesty lemon dressing and fresh cilantro, this salad stands out in flavor and presentation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This salad takes just 15 minutes to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious side dish in no time.
- Fresh Ingredients: Enjoy the bright flavors of fresh vegetables combined with creamy avocado for a satisfying bite.
- Versatile Pairing: Perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or on its own for a light lunch.
- Nutritious Boost: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad is good for your health and your taste buds.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its colorful presentation and vibrant flavors make it a hit at gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the preparation easier and more efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Salad bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Salad bowl: A large bowl allows you to mix all the ingredients without making a mess.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for your vegetables, enhancing both texture and appearance.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients safely.
- Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements guarantee the right balance of flavors in your dressing.
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)
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
- Start by washing the Roma tomatoes and English cucumber thoroughly under running water.
- Chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Slice the cucumber into thin rounds or half-moons based on your preference.
- Thinly slice the red onion.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
- In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, sliced cucumber, sliced red onion, diced avocados, and chopped cilantro.
Step 3: Dress the Salad
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice over the salad mixture.
- Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are well coated without mashing the avocado.
Step 4: Season Before Serving
- Just before serving, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of sea salt and 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper over the top.
- Toss lightly once more to distribute seasoning evenly.
This refreshing Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad serves four as a delightful side dish that complements many meals while providing essential nutrients!
How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Serving Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a delightful experience. This vibrant dish pairs well with various meals and can be enjoyed in several creative ways.
As a Refreshing Side Dish
- Pair it with grilled chicken for a light and healthy meal.
- Serve alongside fish tacos to complement the flavors of the sea.
In a Wrap or Sandwich
- Use it as a filling in a wrap for a quick lunch option.
- Add it to your favorite sandwich for extra crunch and freshness.
On a Bed of Greens
- Serve over mixed greens for added nutrients and texture.
- Combine with arugula for a peppery contrast that enhances the salad’s flavors.
As an Appetizer
- Present it in small cups or bowls for guests at gatherings.
- Pair with pita chips for a crunchy dip alternative.
How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
To elevate your Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad, consider these simple tips.
- Use ripe avocados: Choose avocados that yield slightly when pressed; they’ll add creaminess to the salad.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavors and make it more refreshing.
- Fresh herbs: Experiment with basil or parsley in addition to cilantro for new flavor profiles.
- Add feta cheese: Crumbled feta adds a salty, tangy element that pairs beautifully with the ingredients.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and tweak the salt and pepper just before serving to ensure optimal flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad works wonderfully as part of a meal. Here are some great side dishes that pair well with it.
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers: These add protein and are easy to prepare on the grill.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty, wholesome dish that complements the salad’s freshness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies provide warmth and depth to your meal.
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy option that balances the lightness of the salad.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with rice and beans add heartiness to your plate.
- Coleslaw: The crunch of coleslaw contrasts nicely with the creamy avocado in the salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad, it’s easy to overlook some important details that can affect the taste and presentation.
- Ingredients: Using overly ripe avocados can lead to a mushy salad. Choose firm avocados that will hold their shape.
- Salt Timing: Adding salt too early can draw out moisture from the veggies, making the salad watery. Season just before serving for the best texture.
- Oil Choices: Using low-quality oil can impact flavor. Opt for extra virgin olive oil for a richer taste.
- Mixing Method: Overmixing can break down the avocados and tomatoes. Toss gently to keep ingredients intact.
- Freshness: Skipping fresh herbs can diminish flavor. Always include fresh cilantro for that added zing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Keep the salad separate from the dressing if possible to maintain freshness.
Freezing Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Not Recommended: Freezing is not ideal as it affects texture, especially of the avocado.
Reheating Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Oven: Not suitable for reheating this salad as it’s best served cold.
- Microwave: Avoid using a microwave; it will change the salad’s texture.
- Stovetop: Not recommended; serve cold and fresh for optimal taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad.
Can I make Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare ingredients ahead but add avocado and dressing just before serving to maintain freshness.
What variations can I try with Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad?
Feel free to add ingredients like bell peppers, corn, or feta cheese for different flavors and textures.
Is Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad healthy?
Absolutely! This salad is packed with vitamins, healthy fats, and fiber, making it a nutritious option.
How should I serve Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad?
This salad works well as a side dish or light lunch. Pair it with grilled meats or enjoy on its own.
Final Thoughts
The Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is not only refreshing but also versatile. You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the dressing to suit your taste. Give it a try today; it’s perfect for any occasion!
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With the delightful combination of juicy Roma tomatoes, crisp English cucumbers, and creamy avocados, this salad offers a burst of fresh flavors in every bite. Tossed with a zesty lemon dressing and sprinkled with fresh cilantro, it’s not only nutritious but also visually appealing. Whether served as a side dish to grilled meats or enjoyed on its own for a light lunch, this salad is quick to prepare and sure to please your taste buds. Ideal for summer picnics or casual dinners, it brings together the best of seasonal produce in an easy-to-make recipe that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
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
Instructions
- Wash the Roma tomatoes and English cucumber thoroughly. Chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, slice the cucumber into thin rounds or half-moons, and thinly slice the red onion.
- In a large salad bowl, combine chopped tomatoes, sliced cucumber, sliced red onion, diced avocados, and chopped cilantro.
- Drizzle olive oil and fresh lemon juice over the salad mixture. Toss gently to coat without mashing the avocado.
- Just before serving, sprinkle sea salt and black pepper over the top. Toss lightly again to distribute seasoning evenly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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