Looking for a fresh, tasty dish that’s easy to make? Look no further than the Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad! This vibrant salad mixes crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocados, creating a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a colorful and healthy salad perfect for any meal or gathering. Let’s dive into this refreshing recipe and make your taste buds happy!
Ingredients
List of Fresh Ingredients
– 2 large cucumbers, diced
– 3 medium ripe tomatoes, chopped
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 small red onion, chopped
– 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
– ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 2 limes
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Suggested Equipment
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
– Knife and cutting board
– Measuring cups
Gather these fresh ingredients to create a crunchy and tasty salad. The cucumbers give it a cool bite. Tomatoes add a juicy flavor. Avocados bring a creamy richness that ties everything together. The red onion adds a sharp taste, while the jalapeño gives it a kick. Cilantro brightens the dish with its fresh notes. Lime juice and olive oil make a zesty dressing that pulls it all together.
You will need some simple tools. Mixing bowls help combine everything. A whisk is great for mixing the dressing. A knife and cutting board make chopping easy. Measuring cups ensure you get the right amounts. Check out the full recipe to see how these ingredients work together to make a delicious Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Ingredients
– Dice the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces.
– Chop the tomatoes into hearty chunks.
– Carefully dice the avocados, making sure they stay intact.
Mixing the Salad
– In a bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, chopped tomatoes, and diced avocados.
– Add finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, and fresh cilantro to the mix.
Making the Dressing
– In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Combining Everything
– Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture.
– Toss gently to combine, being careful not to mash the avocado.
Resting Time
– Let the salad sit for 10 minutes. This helps enhance the flavors.
You can find the Full Recipe for more details on how to create this fresh salad.
Tips & Tricks
Avocado Handling
To keep your avocado fresh, handle it with care. First, slice the avocado in half, then twist to separate. Use a spoon to scoop out the green flesh. To dice without browning, leave the skin on while cutting. After dicing, sprinkle lime juice over the pieces. This helps slow down oxidation and keeps them bright green.
Dressing Variations
You can customize the dressing for your salad. If you want a bit more flavor, add minced garlic or a teaspoon of honey for sweetness. For a kick, try a dash of hot sauce. You can also mix in fresh herbs like basil or mint for a twist. Experiment to find what you love!
Serving Tips
When serving, choose a large shallow bowl. This allows the colors to shine. Garnish the salad with extra cilantro leaves for freshness. Add lime wedges on the side for a pop of color and flavor. This makes your dish look more inviting and appetizing. For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Variations
Add Protein
You can make this salad even heartier by adding protein. Grilled chicken works well and adds a nice flavor. You can also use black beans for a plant-based option. Shrimp is another great choice; it cooks quickly and pairs nicely with the fresh ingredients. Simply toss in your chosen protein to boost the nutrition and satisfaction of your meal.
Seasonal Ingredients
Using seasonal ingredients can really brighten up your salad. In summer, sweet corn adds a crunchy touch. Chopped bell peppers come in many colors and add a sweet taste. You can even add diced fruits like peaches or strawberries for a twist. Don’t be afraid to mix and match based on what you find at the market!
Dietary Adjustments
Making this salad vegan is simple! Just skip the honey in the dressing and ensure you use vegan-friendly products for any added ingredients. To make it gluten-free, check that your dressing ingredients are safe. Most of the salad’s core items are already gluten-free, so you’re almost there! These easy swaps help tailor the dish to fit any diet without losing flavor.
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To keep your Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad fresh, store leftovers in the fridge. Use an airtight container to prevent air from getting in. This helps keep the flavors intact and the ingredients crisp. Eat the salad within two days for the best taste.
Long-Term Storage
For long-term storage, I recommend freezing individual ingredients instead of the whole salad. You can freeze diced cucumbers and chopped tomatoes for future use. However, avoid freezing avocados, as they will change texture. To keep them fresh, store them in a cool place but use them quickly.
Serving After Storage
When you’re ready to serve leftovers, check the salad first. If it looks a bit soggy, you can refresh it. Add a splash of lime juice and a drizzle of olive oil. Toss gently to mix. This will help revive the flavors and make it taste fresh again.
FAQs
What can I substitute for avocados?
If you want a creamy texture but can’t use avocados, try using Greek yogurt or silken tofu. Both options add creaminess without the avocado. You can also use hummus for a different twist. Each choice keeps the salad tasty and smooth.
How can I make this salad spicy?
To add spice, increase the amount of jalapeño. You can also include diced red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Another option is to mix in a bit of diced serrano pepper. Just remember to adjust to your spice level.
Is Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad healthy?
This salad is packed with nutrients. Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories. Tomatoes provide vitamins A and C. Avocados add healthy fats, which help your heart. Onions and cilantro enhance flavor and give extra nutrients. Overall, this salad is a healthy choice.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep this salad ahead. Chop the veggies and store them in the fridge. Just mix them with the dressing before serving to keep them fresh. Avoid cutting the avocado too early, as it can brown. For the best taste, serve it within a day. Enjoy this fresh dish! For the full recipe, check out the cooking instructions above.
This salad combines fresh ingredients for a bright and healthy dish. You learned how to prepare, mix, and serve it with simple steps. I also shared tips for customizing the salad to fit your taste. Remember to handle the avocado with care to keep it fresh and explore variations to make it your own. Enjoy this refreshing salad for a quick meal or a side dish. It’s easy, fun, and packed with flavor. Happy eating!
