Fresh Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad

Who doesn’t love a crisp, refreshing salad on a hot summer day?

I know I do! And let me tell you, this Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a game-changer.

Did you know that avocados are actually a fruit, not a vegetable? Mind-blowing, right?! This salad brings together the perfect trio of cucumber’s crunch, tomato’s juiciness, and avocado’s creaminess.

It’s not just delicious – it’s a nutritional powerhouse too! Let’s dive into this simple yet spectacular recipe that’ll have your taste buds dancing and your friends begging for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 medium English cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 ripe Hass avocados, diced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Wash all vegetables thoroughly.
2. Slice cucumbers thinly, about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Halve the cherry tomatoes.
4. Dice the avocados: cut in half, remove the pit, score the flesh in a grid pattern, then scoop out with a spoon.
5. Thinly slice the red onion.
6. In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, avocados, and red onion.
7. Add chopped cilantro.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice to make the dressing.
9. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
11. Serve immediately or chill for 15-30 minutes for a cooler salad.

Nutritional Benefits of This Power-Packed Salad

This Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad isn’t just a treat for your taste buds – it’s a nutritional powerhouse!

Cucumbers are incredibly hydrating and packed with vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting and bone health. Tomatoes are bursting with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer.

They’re also an excellent source of vitamin C, boosting your immune system.

Now, let’s talk about our star player – avocados! These creamy delights are loaded with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and potassium.

They help lower bad cholesterol levels and improve nutrient absorption from other foods. Plus, the healthy fats in avocados can keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Overall, this salad is low in calories but high in nutrients, making it an excellent choice for those watching their weight or simply looking to incorporate more wholesome foods into their diet. It’s a perfect example of how delicious and nutritious can go hand in hand!

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This versatile salad can be the perfect sidekick to a variety of main dishes. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a light and healthy meal.

For a Mediterranean twist, serve it alongside some grilled lamb kebabs. Vegetarians can enjoy it with a hearty quinoa pilaf or a chickpea burger.

Want to turn it into a complete meal? Just add some protein! Toss in some grilled shrimp, diced chicken breast, or for a vegetarian option, some crumbled feta cheese and chickpeas.

Voila! You’ve got yourself a satisfying and nutritious main course.

As for beverages, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé complements this salad beautifully. If you’re going alcohol-free, try a sparkling water with a splash of lime – it’ll echo the zesty flavors in the salad.

For presentation, serve this colorful salad in a large, white bowl to make the vibrant colors pop. Garnish with a few extra cilantro leaves and a wedge of lemon for that extra touch of elegance. Trust me, it’ll look as good as it tastes!

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about this salad is how easily you can customize it to suit your taste or what’s in your fridge. Here are some fun variations to try:

1. Cheese Please: Add some crumbled feta or fresh mozzarella balls for a creamy, tangy twist.
2. Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds for added texture and nutrition.
3. Spice it Up: If you like it hot, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
4. Protein Power: Turn it into a main dish by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
5. Herb Garden: Swap cilantro for fresh basil or mint for a different flavor profile.
6. Grain Game: Mix in some cooked quinoa or bulgur wheat to make it more filling.

Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and finding what you love. Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, life doesn’t always allow for last-minute prep. Here are some tips to help you plan ahead:

1. Prep components separately: Chop cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions ahead of time and store in separate containers in the fridge.
2. Leave the avocado for last: Cut and add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
3. Make dressing in advance: The dressing can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the fridge.
4. Assembly line: If taking to a picnic, pack components separately and assemble on-site for maximum freshness.
5. Avocado hack: If you must add avocado in advance, sprinkle with extra lemon juice and cover tightly with plastic wrap directly on the surface to minimize air exposure.

If your salad has been sitting for a while and looks a bit tired, simply drain any excess liquid, give it a gentle toss, and add a splash of fresh lemon juice to revive the flavors.

There you have it, folks – the ultimate guide to creating a mouthwatering Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad!

It’s fresh, it’s easy, and it’s bound to become your go-to summer recipe. Trust me, once you try this flavor-packed salad, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

So grab those veggies, slice that avocado, and get ready to impress at your next BBQ or family dinner.

Don’t forget to experiment with your own twists – that’s half the fun! Now, who’s ready to dig in? I know I am!