There’s nothing quite like the crisp freshness of a Cucumber Avocado Salad! Seriously, every time I take a bite, it feels like a mini burst of summer on my taste buds—even in the depths of winter! I remember the first time I enjoyed this salad; it was at a family picnic where my aunt made it. We were all sweating in the heat, and this salad felt like a refreshing oasis.
What I love most about this dish is its simplicity and how it lets the fresh ingredients shine. Plus, it’s so versatile! You can serve it as a light lunch, a hydrating side for a barbecue, or even as a topping for grilled fish. Trust me, making this salad is like inviting sunshine to your plate!
What’s in Cucumber Avocado Salad?
Cucumbers: These refreshing veggies are hydrating and provide a satisfying crunch. I prefer English cucumbers for their sweetness and minimal seeds, but any cucumber will work beautifully.
Avocado: Creamy and packed with healthy fats, avocados make this salad truly indulgent. Just make sure your avocados are ripe but not overripe—nobody wants a mushy salad!
Tomatoes: Juicy tomatoes add acidity and color to the mix. I often use cherry tomatoes for their sweetness and vibrant color, but any fresh tomato will do.
Red Onion: This adds a hearty kick to the salad. If raw onion is a bit too strong for you, soaking them in water for a few minutes can mellow their flavor.
Fresh Herbs: I usually go for cilantro or parsley, depending on my mood. Fresh herbs add a pop of flavor that takes the salad to another level.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed, of course! This brightens and balances the creaminess of the avocado and brings everything together.
Is Cucumber Avocado Salad Good for You?
Absolutely! This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Cucumbers: They’re great for hydration and are low in calories, making them a fantastic choice for anyone watching their weight.
Avocado: Full of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, avocados can help lower cholesterol levels while providing essential nutrients like potassium and fiber.
Tomatoes: Loaded with vitamins C and K, tomatoes also contain antioxidants like lycopene, which has been linked to various health benefits.
However, while avocados are healthy, they’re also calorie-dense, so moderation is key depending on your dietary goals. Overall, this salad makes a light and nutritious option perfect for warmer weather or as a refreshing side dish all year round!
Ingredients List
– 1 large English cucumber (or your choice of cucumber)
– 1 ripe avocado
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
– 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley (chopped)
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Servings: 4*
How to Make Cucumber Avocado Salad?
1. Start by washing your cucumber thoroughly and slicing it into thin rounds. If you prefer, you can peel it first, but I usually leave the skin on for added nutrients and color.
2. Cut your ripe avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh. Cut it into bite-sized cubes, but be gentle to avoid mashing it!
3. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, avocado cubes, halved cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
4. Add the chopped herbs and squeeze the lemon juice over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss everything together gently to combine, being careful not to mush the avocado.
6. Serve it fresh, garnish with an extra sprinkle of herbs if you like, and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions and Extra Tips
If you want to add a little more to this salad, consider tossing in some crumbled feta cheese or grilled shrimp for extra protein. It’s such a flexible dish that you can customize based on what you have on hand.
If you’re making this salad ahead of time, mix everything except the avocado and lemon juice. When you’re ready to eat, gently toss in the avocado and the juice to keep it fresh and prevent browning.
I genuinely hope you give this Cucumber Avocado Salad a try! It’s quickly become one of my go-to recipes, and I promise it’s a crowd-pleaser too. Share your experience once you’ve made it; I’d love to hear about your variations and any twists you put on the recipe! Enjoy!
