Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe
If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant dish that captures the essence of summertime in every bite, then you will absolutely love this Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe. It’s a delightful medley of crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy avocado, and a hint of zesty lemon, all brought together with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. This salad is not just bursting with color but also offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors—refreshing, tangy, and satisfying all at once. Whether as a light lunch, a side for your grilled favorites, or a healthy snack, this salad hits every note for a nourishing and easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients come together to create a stunning salad that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Each element plays a crucial role, contributing texture, brightness, or a creamy touch that elevates the whole dish.
- 1 large cucumber, sliced into half-moons: Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch that balances the softer ingredients.
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved: Brings a juicy burst of sweetness and vibrant red color.
- 2 ripe avocados, diced: Introduces creamy, buttery richness that ties everything together.
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced: Offers a subtle bite and a splash of purple for contrast.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Provides tangy brightness that elevates all flavors.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Adds silky smoothness and a hint of fruity depth.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley: Infuses fresh herbal notes and a pop of green.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Delivers just enough spice to round out the dish.
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Fresh Ingredients
Start by washing and drying your produce. Slice the cucumber into half-moons to create tender crunch, halve the cherry tomatoes for sweet juiciness, dice the avocados to a perfect creamy size, and thinly slice the red onion to add a light sharpness without overwhelming other flavors.
Step 2: Combine Everything in a Bowl
In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the cucumber, tomatoes, avocado, and red onion. This is where the colors begin their beautiful dance, creating an attractive and appetizing base for the salad.
Step 3: Dress Your Salad
Drizzle the fresh lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil over the mixed vegetables. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley. These simple additions bring brightness, depth, and complexity that transform this salad from basic to spectacular.
Step 4: Toss Gently and Serve
Using a large spoon or salad tongs, gently toss everything to ensure each bite is evenly coated with the dressing and herbs. Be careful to avoid mashing the avocado, keeping its creamy texture intact. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and the best texture.
How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To make this salad even more inviting, consider sprinkling some toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds on top for a lovely crunch. A few crumbles of feta cheese add a salty, creamy contrast. Fresh oregano or basil leaves can add another layer of herbal freshness that complements the existing cilantro or parsley beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp, making it a perfect companion for a summer barbecue or a light dinner. You can also serve it alongside whole-grain bread or quinoa for a wholesome vegetarian meal full of texture and flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, try serving this salad in individual clear glass bowls to showcase the vibrant colors. Another fun idea is to hollow out tomatoes and use them as edible bowls for the salad, turning your presentation into a delightful conversation piece!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad is at its peak freshness right after tossing, so enjoy it immediately if possible. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. Keep in mind the avocado may brown slightly, but a squeeze of extra lemon juice can help slow this process.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and creamy avocado, freezing this salad is not recommended. Freezing would alter the texture and flavor, leaving the salad watery and dull upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh and vibrant.
Reheating
This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature. Reheating is not recommended as it would degrade the texture, especially of the avocado and cucumber, which are best when fresh and crisp.
FAQs
Can I substitute lime juice for lemon juice in the salad?
Absolutely! Lime juice adds a slightly more tart and tangy flavor, which works wonderfully in this salad. Feel free to swap in lime juice to suit your taste preferences.
How can I prevent the avocado from browning?
To keep avocado from browning, toss it immediately with the lemon juice in the dressing and keep the salad covered tightly in the fridge if not serving right away. Eating it fresh is always best, as browning is natural but harmless.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly. You can add vegan-friendly toppings like chickpeas to boost protein without compromising dietary needs.
Can I add protein to make it more filling?
Definitely! Adding crumbled feta, chickpeas, or grilled chicken strips can turn this salad into a heartier meal while keeping all the wonderful fresh flavors intact.
What herbs work best in this salad?
Cilantro and parsley are classic choices that complement the flavors beautifully, but you can also experiment with fresh basil or mint for a different herbal twist that adds unique aroma and depth.
Final Thoughts
This Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe is one of those dishes that you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again, especially when you crave something fresh, healthy, and bursting with flavor. It’s effortless to make, totally customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try at your next meal—you won’t regret the bright, satisfying experience it brings to your table!
Print
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing and vibrant cucumber tomato avocado salad perfect for a light, healthy meal or side dish. This salad combines crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy avocados, and a zesty lemon dressing with fresh herbs for bright Mediterranean flavors that are quick to prepare and ideal for warm weather.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 large cucumber, sliced into half-moons
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
Dressing & Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Combine the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, place the sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocados, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Add Dressing: Drizzle the fresh lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil over the vegetable mixture to add brightness and richness.
- Season and Garnish: Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, and chopped fresh cilantro or parsley evenly over the salad to enhance the flavors.
- Toss Gently: Using salad utensils or clean hands, gently toss all ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing and seasonings, taking care not to mash the avocados.
- Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve the salad right away to enjoy the freshness and prevent the avocado from browning.
Notes
- This salad is best served fresh, as the avocado can brown over time.
- You can substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a tangier flavor.
- Add crumbled feta cheese or chickpeas for extra protein, if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
