I cannot express how much I adore a fresh, vibrant salad, especially one that showcases the perfect trio of salad cucumbers, tomatoes, and avocados. This salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of colors and flavors that embodies the joy of cooking. I remember the first time I prepared this salad; I was hosting a summer barbecue, and I wanted something refreshing to serve alongside grilled meats. The crunch of the cucumbers, the sweetness of the tomatoes, and the creamy richness of avocado were an instant hit with my friends and family.
What’s even better? This salad is as easy to make as it is delicious! You can throw it together in under 10 minutes, and it’s adaptable to whatever you have on hand. Plus, it’s the kind of recipe that allows for endless variations and creative twists. So grab your chopping board, and let’s dive into this delightful medley!
What’s in Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad?
Salad Cucumbers: These guys are your salad’s base and bring a lovely crunch. I prefer using English cucumbers because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, making them super easy to munch on.
Tomatoes: Juicy, ripe tomatoes add that sweet and tangy flavor that elevates the entire salad. Opt for vine-ripened or heirloom varieties if you can for the best taste!
Avocado: Ah, the creamy goodness! Avocados not only make the salad luscious but also provide healthy fats. Use ripe avocados that yield slightly to pressure for the best flavor.
Red Onion: A touch of finely chopped red onion will bring a mild zing to the party. If you’re not a big onion fan, you can skip this or soak them in water for a milder flavor.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and helps keep the avocado from browning. Always choose fresh over bottled when you can—trust me, the difference is huge!
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil will help bind the salad together while enhancing the flavors beautifully.
Is Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! This salad is a nutritional powerhouse.
Cucumbers: Low in calories and high in water content, cucumbers are perfect for hydration. They also contain important vitamins and minerals like vitamin K and potassium.
Tomatoes: Bursting with antioxidants like lycopene, tomatoes support heart health and give your skin a lovely glow. They’re also rich in vitamins A and C.
Avocados: These creamy wonders are loaded with healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fat, which is great for heart health. They also provide fiber and nearly 20 vitamins and minerals—talk about a superfood!
Ingredients
– 2 medium salad cucumbers, diced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 small red onion, finely chopped (optional)
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe serves about 4 people, perfect for a light lunch or an accompanying side dish.
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad?
1. Start by washing all your veggies thoroughly.
2. Dice the cucumbers, tomatoes, and avocado into bite-sized pieces.
3. If using, finely chop the red onion and add it to your bowl.
4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour the dressing over your chopped veggies and gently toss everything together to ensure all the flavors mingle.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary—maybe an extra squeeze of lemon?
7. Serve immediately, or chill it for a bit to let the flavors develop further!
Fresh Takes on Your Salad Delight
If you’re looking to jazz things up, consider adding some freshly chopped herbs like cilantro or basil for an herbal twist. You can even throw in some feta cheese for a tangy kick, or add quinoa or chickpeas for extra protein.
And don’t forget to serve it alongside grilled fish or chicken! It’s a fantastic way to add a refreshing note to your meal.
The beauty of this salad is that it can be adapted to suit your taste and whatever is in season. So go ahead, get a little creative!
I can’t wait for you to try this Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad! It truly is one of those dishes that brings a smile to your face with every bite. I would love to hear how you enjoyed it, any adjustments you made, or how it paired with your meal. Happy cooking!