Name: Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: ½ small red onion (thinly sliced); 1 large English cucumber (quartered lengthwise and sliced); 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved (about 2 cups)); 2 medium avocados (peeled, pitted, and diced); ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese (divided); ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro ((or dill)); 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from about 2 small limes); 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil; 2 teaspoons honey; 2 cloves minced garlic ((about 1 teaspoon)); ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Introduction to Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad

Are you tired of the same old, boring lunches? Enter the Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad, a refreshing and vibrant dish that is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients to fuel your busy day. As young professionals, finding quick, healthy meals is essential, and this salad proves to be a perfect game-changer.

So, why is homemade salad a game-changer for young professionals? Well, for starters, preparing your meals at home can save you time and money. Store-bought salads can be pricey and often lack the freshness you desire. With your own version, you have full control over the ingredients—ensuring each bite is wholesome and tailored to your taste. Plus, creating a colorful salad like this one elevates your culinary skills while allowing for creativity.

Not to mention, the combination of crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocados makes for a delightful texture. This salad can easily be whipped up in under 20 minutes, presenting a stress-free meal option amidst your bustling schedule. So, whether you’re working from home or dashing to the office, this salad is your new best friend! Ready to dive in? Let’s gather our ingredients!

For more culinary inspiration, check out sources like EatingWell or Bon Appétit for easy recipes that fit your lifestyle.

Ingredients for Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad

Fresh vegetables you'll need

To create a vibrant and refreshing Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad, you'll want to start with the freshest vegetables you can find. Here's what you'll need:

½ small red onion: Sliced thin for a gentle bite.
1 large English cucumber: Quartered lengthwise and sliced for that delightful crunch.
1 pint of halved cherry tomatoes: About 2 cups, bursting with sweetness.
2 medium avocados: Peeled, pitted, and diced for creaminess that complements the crisp veggies.

The importance of quality herbs and feta

Don't underestimate the impact of fresh ingredients! The addition of ⅓ cup of crumbled feta cheese and ¼ cup of chopped fresh cilantro (or dill) not only adds flavor, but also elevates the Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad to a whole new level. Choosing high-quality herbs and cheese provides depth and richness that really ties the dish together.

Essential dressing ingredients

The magic of this salad truly shines through its dressing. For that perfect balance, gather the following essentials:

3 tablespoons fresh lime juice: Adds a zesty zing to the salad.
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil: Enhances the overall flavor and richness.
2 teaspoons honey: A touch of sweetness to balance the acidity.
2 minced garlic cloves: Infuses the dressing with aromatic goodness.
½ teaspoon kosher salt and ground black pepper: To taste, helping to bring all the flavors together.

Crafting this salad is not just about following a recipe; it's about enjoying the finest ingredients nature has to offer!

Preparing Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad

Creating a refreshing Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is both simple and delightful! This vibrant dish combines fresh ingredients that offer a burst of flavor with every bite. Let's walk through the steps together.

Prep Your Vegetables

Begin by prepping your vegetables, which is the cornerstone of a great salad. Start with ½ small red onion by thinly slicing it; soaking the slices in cold water for a few minutes will help mellow their sharpness. Next, take a large English cucumber, quarted and sliced for a satisfying crunch. Then grab a pint of halved cherry tomatoes—you'll need about two cups, which will add a juicy sweetness to your salad. Finally, you’ll want two medium avocados, peeled, pitted, and diced. To keep the presentation beautiful, try to cut the avocado right before you're ready to serve to avoid browning!

Make the Delicious Dressing

In a small bowl or a large measuring cup, it’s time to whip up a zesty dressing that brings all the flavors together. Combine 3 tablespoons of fresh lime juice, 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil, 2 teaspoons of honey, 2 cloves of minced garlic, along with ½ teaspoon each of kosher salt and ground black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth. The acidity from the lime, the richness of the olive oil, and the sweetness of the honey will create a perfectly balanced dressing for your Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad.

Combine Ingredients in a Large Bowl

Now that your vegetables are prepped and your dressing is ready, it’s time to combine everything! In a very large bowl, combine your cucumbers, tomatoes, diced avocado, and ⅓ cup of crumbled feta cheese (reserving some for later). Toss in the drained red onion slices and about ¼ cup of chopped fresh cilantro or dill. Pour your freshly made dressing over the top! This is where the magic happens—take a moment to appreciate those vibrant colors before the next step.

Gently Mix and Serve

With all the ingredients in the bowl, it's important to mix gently. Use a large spoon to fold the salad, ensuring every ingredient gets coated in that tasty dressing without mashing the avocado. Once well mixed, sprinkle the reserved feta on top for a lovely finishing touch. You can enjoy your salad immediately or cover it with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for up to four hours. Just don’t forget to give it a gentle stir before serving to revitalize those beautiful ingredients!

Tips for Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, don’t worry—they can still be delicious! Just remember that the avocado may brown a bit after a day in the fridge, and the veggies might release some liquid. Store your Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad in an airtight container and aim to eat it within one day for the best flavor. The taste will still be fresh, and it makes for a quick and healthy snack!

Now you’re all set to impress your friends and family with this colorful, refreshing salad. Enjoy!

Variations on Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad

When it comes to enhancing your Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad, adding protein is a fantastic way to turn this side dish into a fulfilling meal. Consider tossing in grilled chicken breast for a heartier option, or for a vegetarian twist, try black beans or chickpeas. They not only add texture but also pump up the nutritional value.

To elevate flavors, experiment with fresh herbs and spices. Basil, mint, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes can bring a new zing. You might enjoy the refreshing contrast of dill or the warmth of cumin. These little changes can make a big difference, keeping your salad exciting every time you whip it up!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad

How to Ensure Cucumbers Stay Crisp

To keep your cucumbers deliciously crisp in your Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad, sprinkle them with a bit of salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes. This will draw out excess moisture. Then, pat them dry before adding them to your salad. You could also choose to opt for English cucumbers, as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, making them perfect for salads. Here’s a great resource on choosing the best cucumbers.

Ways to Prevent Avocado Browning

Avocados can brown quickly, but you can prevent this by tossing them gently with a little lime juice right after dicing. The citric acid works wonders! If you have leftovers, consider storing them in an airtight container with a slice of onion or some extra lime juice to slow down oxidation. For more tips on preserving avocado freshness, check out this helpful guide.

Serving suggestions for Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad

Pairing with Grilled Chicken or Turkey Bacon

Elevate your Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad by pairing it with grilled chicken or crispy turkey bacon. The richness of the avocado complements the savory tones of grilled chicken, while the turkey bacon adds a delightful crunch. Not only does this combination create a balanced meal, but it also brings protein to the table, making it perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Consider marinating the chicken in a zesty lime vinaigrette to tie all the flavors together beautifully.

Serving as a Side or Light Main Dish

This refreshing salad is versatile enough to serve as either a side or a light main dish. Enjoy it alongside your favorite grilled dishes or as a standalone meal on a hot summer day. If you want to make it heartier, you can toss in some quinoa or chickpeas for added texture and nutrition. Whichever way you choose to enjoy your Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad, it's bound to be a hit!

Time Breakdown for Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad

Preparation Time
Get ready to enjoy your fresh Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad! The preparation time is approximately 15 minutes. This quick and easy salad is perfect for those busy weeknights or spontaneous weekend gatherings.

Total Time
In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful and vibrant salad ready to serve. This total time includes slicing, dicing, and whipping up the dressing! For a dish that's both delicious and visually appealing, it’s well worth the minimal time investment.

If you want to make it even easier, you can prep some ingredients a day ahead—like washing and chopping the veggies. Check out tips on how to keep your salads fresh on sites like EatingWell.

Nutritional Facts for Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad

When it comes to Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad, it’s not only refreshing but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories per serving

Each serving contains approximately 186 calories. This makes it a great choice if you're looking for a light meal or a side dish.

Protein content

With about 4 grams of protein, this salad provides a modest boost to your daily intake, thanks to ingredients like feta cheese and avocados.

Fats and carbohydrates

This salad is rich in healthy fats, offering 14 grams per serving, primarily from avocados and olive oil. It also contains 15 grams of carbohydrates, providing energy while keeping the overall calorie count in check.

Incorporating this salad into your diet not only adds variety but also contributes beneficial fats and nutrients you need for a balanced lifestyle. For more tips on healthy eating, explore nutrition resources on Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Enjoy your meal!

FAQs about Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad

Can I add other ingredients to this salad?

Absolutely! The beauty of the Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is its versatility. Feel free to toss in ingredients like olives, chickpeas, or even diced bell peppers for an extra crunch. Herbs like basil or parsley can also elevate the flavor profile. Don't hesitate to personalize it based on your preference or what's in your pantry!

How long can I store this salad in the fridge?

While this refreshing salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to one day. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown slightly, and the vegetables can release moisture. However, it will still taste delightful! For tips on preventing browning, consider adding a bit more lime juice or storing the avocado separately until serving.

Is there a way to make this salad gluten-free?

The Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any added ingredients, like crumbled feta or dressings, are certified gluten-free. This makes it a fantastic choice for gatherings, as it caters to various dietary needs without compromising on taste. For more gluten-free options, explore this resource.

Conclusion on Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad

In summary, the Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is not only a delicious addition to your meals but also a fantastic way to engage in healthy eating. By making your own salad, you control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and nutrition while enjoying the creative process of cooking. Try it today!