If you’re looking for a fresh and tasty salad that’s quick to make, you’ll love this Avocado Tomato Cucumber Salad. With bright flavors and vibrant colors, it’s perfect for any meal or gathering. This simple dish combines creamy avocados, juicy tomatoes, and refreshing cucumbers to create a healthy delight. Stick around to learn the easy steps and tips for making this salad a star on your table!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and diced
Additional Ingredients
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely minced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
I love how fresh and colorful this salad is. The creamy avocados mix perfectly with the juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers. As you gather your ingredients, make sure your avocados are ripe but not too soft. This will give you a nice texture in your salad.
The cherry tomatoes add a sweet burst of flavor. Halving them makes them easy to eat and lets their juices mingle with the other ingredients. A large cucumber gives a nice crunch. I peel mine to keep the flavor smooth and bright.
For added flavor, I use red onion and fresh cilantro. The red onion adds a subtle bite, while the cilantro gives a fresh, herbal taste. The lime juice and olive oil combine to make a zesty dressing. This dressing adds a lovely richness that balances the fresh veggies.
Optionally, you can add ground cumin. It gives an earthy note that can enhance the salad’s flavor. You can find the Full Recipe above for detailed measurements and instructions.
This salad is not just tasty; it’s healthy too. Each ingredient brings its own benefits, from the healthy fats in avocados to the vitamins in tomatoes and cucumbers. Enjoy making this delightful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Step 1: Combine avocados, tomatoes, and cucumbers.
Start by dicing the avocados into bite-sized pieces. Next, halve the cherry tomatoes and peel the cucumber before dicing it. Toss these three ingredients together in a large mixing bowl. Their colors and textures will make you smile.
– Step 2: Add red onion and cilantro.
Finely mince the red onion and chop the fresh cilantro. Gently mix them into the bowl with the other ingredients. Be careful not to mash the avocados. This adds a nice crunch and bright flavor to the salad.
Dressing the Salad
– Step 3: Whisk lime juice, olive oil, and cumin.
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and extra-virgin olive oil. If you like, add a pinch of ground cumin for an earthy taste. This dressing ties the salad together, adding a zesty flair.
– Step 4: Drizzle and toss the salad.
Drizzle the dressing over your salad. With a gentle hand, toss everything together. Make sure the dressing coats all the ingredients without crushing the soft avocados.
Final Touches
– Step 5: Allow flavors to meld.
Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes. This short wait lets the flavors blend beautifully. It also allows the lime juice to soften the onions and brighten the dish.
– Step 6: Adjust seasoning before serving.
Before serving, taste the salad. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or lime juice. This small step makes a big difference in flavor. Enjoy your fresh creation, inspired by the Full Recipe!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Freshness
To make this salad great, start with ripe avocados. They should feel soft but not squishy. Choose firm cucumbers for a nice crunch. When mixing, do it gently. You want to keep those avocado pieces whole.
Flavor Enhancements
For a tasty twist, try adding feta cheese or olives. Both add a nice bite to the dish. You can also experiment with fresh herbs. Mint or parsley can bring new flavors that brighten the salad.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the salad in a large bowl for sharing. This makes it feel special. To make it look even better, garnish with fresh cilantro. A sprinkle of cumin adds both flavor and a nice touch for the eyes.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily swap ingredients in this salad. Try using heirloom or grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes. They bring new colors and flavors. You might also choose sweet or green onions for a different taste. Each swap adds a fun twist to your dish.
Seasonal Additions
Seasonal fruits can elevate your salad. Adding mango or strawberries brings sweetness and color. Both fruits pair well with the salad’s fresh flavors. You can also toss in bell peppers for added crunch. Their bright colors make the dish look more appealing too.
Dietary Modifications
If you need a vegan option, simply skip any optional ingredients. This keeps the salad fresh and plant-based. To ensure it’s gluten-free, always check the labels of your ingredients. This way, everyone can enjoy the salad without worry.
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To keep your salad fresh, refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container. This helps keep the flavors vibrant. Use the salad within 1-2 days for the best taste. After this time, the avocados may brown and lose their nice texture.
Long-Term Options
Can you freeze avocado salad? No, freezing is not recommended. The avocados will turn mushy and lose their creamy goodness. Instead, think about repurposing leftovers in other dishes. You can add it to a wrap, mix it into a grain bowl, or even top a piece of toast. This way, you can still enjoy all those great flavors.
Best Practices for Preparation
You can prepare the salad in advance, but it’s best to dress it just before serving. This keeps the ingredients crisp and fresh. For extra ingredients, store them separately. This way, you can mix them in when you’re ready to eat. It’s a simple trick to maintain taste and texture.
FAQs
What can I serve with Avocado Tomato Cucumber Salad?
You can serve this salad with a variety of tasty dishes. It pairs well with:
– Grilled chicken for a hearty meal.
– Fresh fish, which adds a light touch.
– Whole-grain bread for a satisfying crunch.
These options enhance the salad’s fresh flavors and make a full meal.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep the salad ahead, but it’s best to do some things. Keep the avocados from browning by:
– Dicing the avocados just before serving.
– Storing cut ingredients in separate containers.
– Mixing everything together only when you are ready to eat.
This way, the salad stays fresh and bright.
What is the nutritional information of this salad?
This salad is packed with nutrients. It is low in calories and full of healthy fats. Each serving has about 200 calories. Here are some health benefits:
– Avocados provide heart-healthy fats.
– Tomatoes are rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
– Cucumbers keep you hydrated.
For complete nutritional details, check the Full Recipe. You’ll find all the specifics you need to know.
This salad is fresh, tasty, and easy to make. We covered simple steps for preparing it and highlighted key ingredients. Using ripe avocados and adding seasonal fruits can elevate flavors. Remember to store leftovers properly and enjoy this salad fresh. Explore variations to keep it exciting for each meal. This dish pairs well with grilled chicken or whole-grain bread. Enjoy experimenting with it!
