This refreshing Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is like a burst of summer in a bowl! With crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado, it’s super colorful and healthy.
I love how easy it is to whip up, making it perfect for a quick lunch or as a side dish at barbecues. Just chop and toss everything together, and you’re ready to enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers bring a lovely crunch. If you can’t find regular cucumbers, try English cucumbers—they’re less bitter and have a thinner skin.
Tomatoes: I suggest using ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. Cherry tomatoes are a great choice if you’re looking for sweetness. Substitute with sun-dried tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t available.
Avocado: A ripe avocado adds creaminess. If you can’t find ripe ones, you can substitute it with a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess without the fat.
Red Onion: Red onion gives a zesty bite. You could swap it for green onions or shallots for a milder taste.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro really brightens the salad. If you’re not a fan, fresh parsley works well too and adds freshness.
How Can I Prevent the Avocado from Mashing?
When mixing this salad, the avocado is delicate and can easily get mushy. Here are some tips to keep it intact:
- Use a gentle hand when tossing the ingredients together, just enough to combine them.
- Cut the avocado into larger pieces to minimize the chances of it getting mashed during the mixing.
- Consider adding the avocado last, right before serving, to avoid unnecessary handling.
Following these tips will help maintain that beautiful avocado texture while enjoying your refreshing salad!
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 2 medium cucumbers, sliced
- 3 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (or lemon juice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to chop the vegetables and mix the dressing, plus you can let it chill for 10-15 minutes if you want to enhance the flavors. Perfect for a light lunch or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Vegetables:
Start by taking a large bowl and adding the sliced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, diced avocado, and thinly sliced red onion. Give everything a gentle stir to mix them together without mashing the avocado.
2. Add the Fresh Herbs:
Next, sprinkle the chopped cilantro over your vegetable mixture. This will add a fresh flavor that makes the salad even more delicious!
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. This dressing will bring everything together.
4. Dress the Salad:
Now, pour the dressing over your salad. Gently toss all the ingredients together, being extra careful with the avocado so it stays nice and chunky.
5. Taste and Serve:
Take a moment to taste your salad. You can add more salt or pepper if you feel it needs it. Serve the salad immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors mingle. Enjoy your fresh and vibrant salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes in This Salad?
Absolutely! You can use any variety of tomatoes you like, such as cherry, grape, or heirloom. Just keep in mind that different types may have varying sweetness and juiciness, so taste them first to see how they fit with the other ingredients!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients a few hours in advance. Just keep the diced avocado separate and add it right before serving to prevent browning. Toss the salad together just before you’re ready to eat!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. However, the avocado may brown, so it’s best to eat it soon after making the salad. To reduce browning, you can sprinkle a bit of extra lime or lemon juice over the avocado before putting it away.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Of course! You can add ingredients like bell peppers, corn, or even chickpeas for extra flavor and texture. Just make sure to adjust the dressing quantities slightly if you add more bulk to the salad!
