I absolutely adore making a Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad, especially during the summer months when everything is fresh and bursting with flavor! This salad has a special place in my heart because it reminds me of sun-drenched picnics with family, where we would enjoy this refreshing bowl of goodness under the shade of an old oak tree. It’s simple, colorful, and truly embodies the essence of a perfect sunny day.
What makes this salad stand out is not just its vibrant colors, but the delightful medley of flavors! Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and buttery avocado unite to create a salad that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Honestly, whether you’re enjoying a cozy dinner at home or having a backyard barbecue with friends, this salad is always a hit!
What’s in Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad?
Let’s talk about the fabulous ingredients that come together to make this salad so irresistible:
Cucumbers: Crisp, refreshing, and hydrating, cucumbers are the backbone of this salad. I prefer using English cucumbers for their thin skin and fewer seeds, but any cucumber will do!
Tomatoes: Juicy and sweet tomatoes add a burst of flavor. I like a mix of cherry tomatoes and heirloom varieties for color and taste, but any ripe tomato works wonders here.
Avocado: Creamy and rich, avocado takes this salad to the next level. I always choose perfectly ripe avocados for that buttery texture that complements the crunch of the veggies.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced, these give a subtle zing. Just be careful not to overdo it; we want the flavor to enhance, not overpower.
Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens up the salad and keeps the avocado from browning too quickly. It’s all about that zesty goodness!
Olive Oil: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds not only flavor but also richness and healthy fats. I like to use a good quality one because you can really taste the difference.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings to bring all the flavors together. I recommend kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for the best results.
Is Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Good for You?
Absolutely, this Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is packed with nutrients that make it a great addition to your diet!
Cucumbers: These crunchy greens are incredibly hydrating and low in calories. They’re a great source of vitamins K and C and provide potassium, which is fantastic for heart health.
Tomatoes: Bursting with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, tomatoes can help combat free radicals in the body. They also offer vitamin C, potassium, and folate, making them a great addition to a healthy diet.
Avocado: It’s hard not to rave about avocados! They’re rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals, which are key to heart health and overall well-being.
Red Onion: These not only add a delightful crunch but also are loaded with antioxidants and can help with heart health and inflammation.
While the health benefits are many, remember to enjoy the avocado in moderation as it’s calorie-dense. But hey, a little healthy fat never hurt anyone, right?
Ingredients List
– 1 large English cucumber (or 2 smaller cucumbers)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes (or any ripe tomato variety)
– 1 ripe avocado
– 1/4 red onion
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
This salad serves 4 as a side dish and is perfect for sharing!
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad?
1. **Prep the Veggies:** Start by washing the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Peel the cucumber if you prefer, then slice it thinly. Cut the tomatoes into halves or quarters, depending on their size.
2. **Chop the Onion:** Peel and thinly slice the red onion as well. You can soak the slices in cold water for about 10 minutes if you want to mellow the flavor a bit.
3. **Slice Avocado:** Cut the avocado in half, twist to remove the pit, and scoop the flesh out with a spoon. Slice it into cubes or wedges—whatever you prefer!
4. **Combine Everything:** In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, tomatoes, avocado, and red onion.
5. **Dress It Up:** In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together to coat.
6. **Taste and Adjust:** Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—maybe a bit more salt or lemon juice.
7. **Serve Immediately:** Enjoy your delicious salad right away for the freshest flavors!
Serving Suggestions and Tips for the Perfect Salad
Here are a few nuggets of wisdom I’ve picked up over the years that can take your salad to the next level:
– **Add Fresh Herbs:** Toss in some fresh basil, cilantro, or parsley for an extra pop of flavor.
– **Spice It Up:** A sprinkle of feta cheese or crumbled goat cheese can add a little tanginess.
– **Protein Boost:** Add some grilled chicken, chickpeas, or shrimp to make it a more filling meal.
– **Make It Ahead:** You can prep the veggies in advance—just keep the avocado separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid browning.
I hope you give this Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad a try! It’s one of those dishes that feels both wholesome and indulgent. Plus, I’d love to hear how yours turns out, so feel free to share your experiences! Happy cooking and enjoy those summer vibes!
