I absolutely adore fresh salads, and one of my all-time favorites has to be Cucumber Avocado Salad. There’s something refreshing about it that reminds me of summer picnics and carefree afternoons spent with family and friends. I can still picture the first time I made this salad for a gathering. I was nervous – would everyone like it? But the crispness of the cucumbers and the creaminess of the avocados had my friends going back for seconds… and thirds! Now, it’s a staple at every barbecue and get-together!
What I love most about this salad is how easy it is to whip up. It’s the kind of dish where you can just throw things together without worrying about being too precise. Plus, it’s healthy, colorful, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as a light meal, this Cucumber Avocado Salad is sure to please. Let’s dive into the details, shall we?
What’s in Cucumber Avocado Salad?
Cucumbers: These hydrating veggies are the star of the show! I prefer using English cucumbers because they have a thinner skin and fewer seeds, but regular cucumbers work as well.
Avocados: Creamy and rich, avocados not only add texture but also healthy fats that keep you satisfied. I always choose perfectly ripe ones – they should give just slightly when you press them.
Red Onion: A dash of red onion gives this salad a nice zing. Just a little is all you need; unless you’re like me and love that onion flavor, then go ahead and add a bit more!
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and colorful, cherry tomatoes add a burst of flavor and a pop of color. I like to use a mix of red and yellow for visual appeal.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the whole dish! It’s that zing that takes everything up a notch. Bottled juice just doesn’t cut it in this case.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality extra-virgin olive oil rounds out the flavors. It’s worth splurging on for this!
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings, but they elevate every ingredient. I always try to use freshly ground black pepper for that extra kick.
Is Cucumber Avocado Salad Good for You?
Oh, you bet it is! This salad is a nutritional powerhouse.
Cucumbers: They’re hydrating and low in calories, making them perfect for weight management. Plus, they’re rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
Avocados: Packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, avocados can help lower bad cholesterol levels. They also bring fiber to the table, which is a bonus for digestive health.
Red Onion: This flavorful addition not only provides antioxidants but also has anti-inflammatory properties.
Cherry Tomatoes: These bite-sized beauties are a great source of vitamins C and K, as well as essential nutrients like lycopene, which is great for heart health.
However, just a word of caution: while avocados are super healthy, they’re also calorie-dense. Moderation is key, and make sure to balance this salad with other nutrient-rich foods throughout your day!
Ingredients
– 2 medium English cucumbers, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
– 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– This salad serves about 4 as a side.
How to Make Cucumber Avocado Salad?
1. Start by preparing your ingredients: peel and dice the cucumbers, dice the avocados, and chop the red onion and cherry tomatoes.
2. In a large bowl, gently combine the cucumbers, avocado, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss carefully. You want to coat everything without mashing those luscious avocados.
5. Taste, and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Sometimes I like to add a pinch more salt to really enhance the flavors!
Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Refreshment!
This salad is perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or as a refreshing light lunch on its own. If you want to mix it up, try adding crumbled feta cheese or herbs like cilantro or basil for an extra flavor boost. A scoop of quinoa mixed in makes it an even heartier meal!
Whether you’re enjoying it on a sunny day or serving it at a cozy gathering, this Cucumber Avocado Salad is sure to steal the show. I can’t wait for you to try it! I’d love to hear how it turns out, so don’t hesitate to share your own twists on the recipe. Happy cooking!
