There’s something incredibly refreshing about a Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad that just screams summer! I can vividly recall the hot afternoons spent in my grandmother’s backyard. We’d gather around the patio, laughter filling the air, while she tossed together this vibrant salad. Each bite was like a burst of sunshine, and the combination of crispy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocados made it feel like a celebration of the season’s best produce.
This salad is not just a meal; it’s a memory in a bowl! I love making it whenever I have a fresh batch of garden veggies or when I’m craving something light yet satisfying. Perfect as a side dish or even a main course, it’s packed with nutrition and flavor. So, let’s dive into the delicious world of this easy and delightful salad!
What’s in Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad?
Cucumbers: These cool and crunchy veggies form the base of our salad. I prefer using English cucumbers for their sweetness and low-seed content, making them perfect for salads!
Tomatoes: I like to use cherry or grape tomatoes for their burst-of-flavor characteristics, but you can also throw in heirloom varieties for color and taste. Just make sure they’re ripe and juicy!
Avocados: The creaminess of avocados is what elevates this salad to a whole new level. I generally go for Hass avocados because they have a rich, buttery texture that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
Red Onion: For a bit of zing, I add some finely diced red onion. It brings a delightful crunch and adds a pop of color to the mix!
Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice not only enhances the salad’s flavor but also helps keep the avocado from browning too quickly.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil brings out all the flavors beautifully. It’s essential for that touch of richness.
Salt and Pepper: Simple yet vital, these seasonings awaken all the flavors and make everything sing in harmony!
Is Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Good for You?
Absolutely! This salad is a powerhouse of nutrition.
Cucumbers: Low in calories and high in water content, cucumbers help keep you hydrated while providing vitamins K and C.
Tomatoes: They’re rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that may reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Plus, they’re a great source of vitamin C.
Avocados: Although a bit higher in calories compared to other veggies, avocados are loaded with healthy fats that support heart health. They’re also rich in potassium and fiber!
Red Onion: This allium family member contains antioxidants and is known to support heart health as well.
Overall, this salad is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. The only thing to consider is if you have an allergy to any of the ingredients, but otherwise, dig in and enjoy!
Ingredients for Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
– 1 large English cucumber, diced
– 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
– 1 ripe Hass avocado, diced
– ¼ red onion, finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe serves about 4 as a side dish or 2 as a light main course.
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad?
1. Start by prepping your veggies. Dice the cucumber, halve the tomatoes, and chop the red onion into small pieces.
2. Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh out with a spoon. Dice it into chunks.
3. In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumber, halved tomatoes, avocado, and red onion.
4. Drizzle the lemon juice and olive oil over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Gently toss the salad together until everything is evenly mixed, being careful with the avocado to avoid mashing it.
6. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors, or chill for about 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Make It Your Own!
Feel free to customize this salad to your liking! You can add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an additional layer of flavor. Crumbled feta or goat cheese can introduce a wonderful tanginess. If you’re looking for some crunch, toss in some toasted nuts or seeds.
And for those who enjoy a little kick, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile. The possibilities are endless!
I hope you give this Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad a try. It’s perfect for BBQs, picnics, or just enjoying at home – either way, I promise you won’t regret it! Let me know how yours turns out, and feel free to share any variations you come up with; I can’t wait to hear about your salad adventures! Enjoy, friend!
