Cucumber, Tomato & Avocado Salad

This refreshing and vibrant Cucumber, Tomato & Avocado Salad is the perfect light dish that’s packed with flavor. The combination of crisp cucumber, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado creates a delightful balance of textures and tastes. With a simple yet tangy dressing, this salad is an ideal side dish for any meal or a light lunch on its own. It’s quick to prepare, full of fresh ingredients, and bursting with colors, making it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What I love about this salad is how simple yet satisfying it is. It’s packed with fresh, healthy ingredients that come together in no time. The cucumber adds crunch, the tomatoes provide juiciness, and the avocado gives that creamy richness that elevates the whole dish. The dressing ties everything together with a zesty kick, making it the perfect refreshing salad for warm weather or any time I want a light, nutritious meal. Plus, it’s versatile, so I can add other veggies or seasonings to make it my own!

Ingredients

• 1 large cucumber, peeled and sliced

• 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

• 1 ripe avocado, diced

• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (or more, to taste)

• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh herbs for garnish (such as cilantro or parsley, optional)

(Her’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, tomatoes, and avocado. If using, add the thinly sliced red onion.

2. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and honey (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together to coat the ingredients evenly.

4. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes only 10 minutes to prepare. It’s the perfect quick salad to make when I’m short on time but still want something fresh and healthy. If I want to make it ahead, I can prepare the salad ingredients and store them separately from the dressing, adding the dressing right before serving to keep the avocado from browning.

Variations

• Add Protein: If I want to make this salad more filling, I can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a scoop of tuna to turn it into a complete meal.

• Feta or Goat Cheese: For a tangy twist, I can crumble some feta or goat cheese over the top of the salad. The creamy cheese complements the avocado and adds extra flavor.

• Spicy Version: If I like a little heat, I can add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the salad for a spicy kick.

• Dressing Variations: I can swap the lemon juice for lime juice or try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for a different tangy flavor.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the avocado can brown over time. If I have leftovers, I’ll store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. The dressing can be kept separate and added just before serving. For longer storage, I recommend storing the components separately to maintain the freshness of the avocado and other ingredients.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the avocado fresh. However, I can prep the ingredients and store them separately in the fridge, then toss them together with the dressing when ready to serve.

How can I prevent the avocado from browning?

To prevent the avocado from browning, I can add the dressing immediately before serving. If I need to store it, I can squeeze a little extra lemon or lime juice on the avocado and cover it tightly in the fridge.

Can I use other vegetables in this salad?

Yes, I can add other vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or even some mixed greens for extra crunch and color. The salad is very versatile and easy to customize.

Can I make this salad spicy?

Absolutely! I can add diced jalapeños, a drizzle of hot sauce, or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top to give it a spicy kick. Adjust the spice level to suit my taste.

Can I use a different dressing for this salad?

Definitely! While the simple olive oil and lemon dressing is light and refreshing, I can also try using a balsamic vinaigrette, a creamy dressing like ranch or tzatziki, or even a yogurt-based dressing for something richer.

Conclusion

Cucumber, Tomato & Avocado Salad is a wonderfully fresh and easy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s light, nutritious, and bursting with flavor, making it an ideal choice for a quick lunch or as a side to a larger meal. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple dressing, this salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, so I can tailor it to suit my tastes. Whether I’m serving it at a family gathering or just enjoying a light snack, this salad is sure to be a hit every time.