Hey there, friend! Let me tell you about my absolute favorite go-to dish for those hot summer days: the refreshing cucumber tomato avocado salad! Seriously, this salad is like a burst of sunshine in a bowl. It’s so easy to whip up—perfect for when you want something light but oh-so-satisfying. The crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado come together in a way that’s just divine. Plus, it takes only about 15 minutes to prepare! Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just need a quick side for dinner, this salad is sure to impress. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it all summer long!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups cucumber, diced
- 2 cups tomato, diced
- 1 cup avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
(Pro tip: Make sure your avocados are perfectly ripe for that creamy goodness—trust me, it makes all the difference!)
How to Prepare Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Vegetables
Alright, let’s get started! First things first, you’ll want to grab your cutting board and a sharp knife. Dice the cucumber and tomato into bite-sized pieces—think about how you want it to look on your plate! Then, carefully dice the avocado, being gentle so you don’t end up with mush. Oh, and don’t forget to finely chop that red onion! This adds a lovely crunch and a bit of zing. Just a reminder: using ripe avocados is a game-changer! You want them soft enough to scoop out easily but not too mushy. Fresh ingredients are key here, so pick the best ones you can find!
Step 2 – Combine Ingredients
Now, grab a large mixing bowl—trust me, this part is important for easy tossing later! Toss in your diced cucumber, tomato, avocado, and that lovely red onion. I love seeing all the colors come together; it’s like a little party in the bowl! Make sure to give it a gentle stir to combine everything before we move on.
Step 3 – Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This dressing is super simple but packs a punch! I can’t stress enough how fresh lemon juice makes a difference—it brightens everything up! So, give it a good whisk until it’s all combined and creamy.
Step 4 – Toss the Salad
Now, it’s time for the fun part! Pour that zesty dressing over your salad mixture. Gently toss everything together, being careful not to mash the avocado. We want those creamy chunks intact to enjoy their full glory! Just a few gentle turns of the spatula, and you’re golden.
Step 5 – Serve or Chill
And voilà! Your refreshing cucumber tomato avocado salad is almost ready to go. You can serve it immediately for a fresh crunch, or if you have time, pop it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling it really brings out those flavors and makes it even more refreshing. Either way, you’re in for a treat!
Nutritional Information
Okay, let’s talk numbers! Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so this isn’t an exact science. But here’s a rough idea of what you can expect per serving (about 1 cup) of this refreshing cucumber tomato avocado salad:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 5mg
These values make this salad a light, nutritious option that’s packed with fiber and flavor! Enjoy the freshness without any guilt!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s super quick to make—ready in just 15 minutes!
- Fresh, vibrant flavors that scream summer with every bite.
- Healthy and packed with nutrients from fresh veggies and avocado.
- Perfectly customizable—add your favorite herbs or spices!
- Great as a side dish or a light meal on its own.
- It’s vegan-friendly, making it suitable for everyone at the table.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day—if there are any!
Tips for Success
- Choose Ripe Avocados: Make sure your avocados are just the right ripeness! They should be slightly soft to the touch but not mushy. A perfectly ripe avocado will add that creamy texture we all love.
- Fresh is Best: Always go for fresh ingredients! The taste of ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and fresh lemon juice will elevate your salad to a whole new level. Don’t skip on the freshness!
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Everyone has different preferences, so adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. A little pinch can make a big difference!
- Add Fresh Herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or even a bit of basil. They add a lovely aromatic note that pairs beautifully with the veggies.
- Keep it Cool: If you’re serving this salad at a gathering, keep it chilled until it’s time to serve. It stays fresh and crisp that way, and no one likes a warm salad!
- Experiment with Ingredients: Don’t be afraid to mix it up! You can toss in some bell peppers, corn, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese if you’re not keeping it strictly vegan. Get creative!
Variations
Let’s get creative with this refreshing cucumber tomato avocado salad! The base is so versatile, and you can easily switch things up to keep it exciting. Here are some fun variations to try:
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like dill, mint, or basil for a burst of flavor! Each herb brings its own unique twist to the salad.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. It adds a lovely zing that complements the cool veggies!
- Crunchy Add-Ins: For extra texture, consider adding some chopped bell peppers, radishes, or even some toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts. They bring a delightful crunch!
- Fruity Twist: Mix in some diced mango or pineapple for a sweet touch! The sweetness of the fruit pairs beautifully with the savory veggies.
- Protein Boost: For a heartier salad, add some chickpeas or cooked quinoa. It turns this refreshing salad into a filling meal!
- Cheesy Delight: If you’re not strictly vegan, crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a creamy, tangy flavor that elevates the salad to another level.
- Seasonal Spin: Change it up with seasonal ingredients! In summer, add in fresh corn or zucchini, while fall can welcome roasted butternut squash.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create a salad that’s uniquely yours! The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait for you to make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about storing any leftovers of this delicious refreshing cucumber tomato avocado salad! Honestly, it’s best enjoyed fresh, as the textures are just perfect when everything is crisp and vibrant. But if you happen to have some left, here’s how to keep it fresh for a little longer:
- Store in an Airtight Container: Make sure to place any leftover salad in an airtight container. This helps to keep the moisture in and prevents the veggies from getting soggy.
- Refrigerate: Pop that container in the fridge! It should last for about 1 to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the avocado might brown a bit, but it’ll still taste great!
- Gently Toss Before Serving: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, give it a gentle toss to mix everything back together. You can even squeeze a bit more fresh lemon juice on top to brighten it up again!
- No Reheating Needed: This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat it. Just enjoy it straight from the fridge for a quick and refreshing snack!
And there you have it! With these simple storage tips, you can savor this salad even after it’s made. Enjoy every crunchy, creamy bite!
What to Serve Alongside
If you’re looking to elevate your meal experience, this refreshing cucumber tomato avocado salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes! Here are some of my favorite options that complement its vibrant flavors and make for a delightful spread:
- Grilled Chicken or Fish: The light and zesty nature of the salad makes it the perfect side for grilled chicken or fish. The smoky flavors from the grill enhance the freshness of the salad!
- Quinoa or Rice Dishes: A warm bowl of quinoa or fluffy rice pairs nicely, offering a hearty base to balance the salad. Try serving it alongside a lemon herb quinoa for a delightful combo.
- Tacos or Burritos: For a fun twist, serve this salad alongside tacos or burritos! The freshness of the salad cuts through the richness of the fillings, making each bite refreshing.
- Sandwiches or Wraps: Whether it’s a classic turkey sandwich or a veggie wrap, this salad adds a crisp and refreshing element that complements any sandwich beautifully.
- Grilled Vegetables: Pair it with some deliciously charred grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. It creates a colorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for summer!
- Cheese Platter: Serve it as part of a cheese platter with assorted cheeses, crackers, and olives. The creaminess of the avocado and the tanginess of the cheese work so well together!
- Soups: A light soup, like a tomato basil or a chilled gazpacho, pairs wonderfully with the salad. It adds a warm element that complements the refreshing crunch.
So, whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a meal at home, these pairings will enhance your dining experience and make your refreshing cucumber tomato avocado salad the star of the show!
Print
Refreshing Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad: 5 Easy Steps
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A refreshing salad made with cucumber, tomato, and avocado.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cucumber, diced
- 2 cups tomato, diced
- 1 cup avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Dice the cucumber, tomato, and avocado. Finely chop the red onion.
- In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, tomato, avocado, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Notes
- Choose ripe avocados for better flavor.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best taste.
- Adjust seasoning according to your preference.
- For added flavor, consider adding herbs like cilantro or parsley.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: cucumber salad, tomato salad, avocado salad, refreshing salad
