If you’re craving a vibrant, refreshing, and downright irresistible dish to brighten up any meal, this Fresh Avocado Salad with Cucumber, Tomatoes, and Cilantro Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s an effortless blend of creamy avocados, crisp cucumbers, sweet tomatoes, and zesty cilantro, all coming together with a simple lemon and olive oil dressing. Every bite bursts with freshness and balance, making this salad a perfect companion to everything from grilled meats to light lunches or picnics. Trust me, once you try this salad, it will become your go-to for quick, healthy, and delicious meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This salad shines because of its simplicity, using fresh, wholesome ingredients that each bring their own magic to the bowl. From creamy texture to bright flavors and vibrant colors, every item is carefully chosen to make this salad both stunning and satisfying.
- 2 large avocados: Choose ripe but firm avocados for creaminess without mushiness.
- 1 English cucumber: Adds a crisp crunch and refreshing subtle flavor.
- 1 pint grape tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, halved to pack an intense burst of flavor.
- 1/2 medium red onion: Small dice for a sharp, tangy kick that balances the richness.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Brightens and lifts all the flavors beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides silkiness and helps meld the dressing with the veggies.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro: Finely chopped to add a zesty, herbaceous layer to the salad.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors, so don’t skip it.
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper: Gives just a whisper of warmth to finish.
How to Make Fresh Avocado Salad with Cucumber, Tomatoes, and Cilantro Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Fresh Ingredients
Start by dicing the avocados into medium-sized chunks that are big enough to enjoy each creamy bite but small enough to mix effortlessly. Next, slice or dice the cucumber, and halving the juicy grape tomatoes ensures each mouthful is bursting with freshness. Dice the red onion finely to keep the balance gentle yet noticeable in the final salad.
Step 2: Combine the Vegetables
Gently place your prepared avocado, cucumber, tomato, and red onion into a large bowl, ready to become the base of this incredible salad.
Step 3: Add the Cilantro
Chop the fresh cilantro finely and sprinkle it over the vegetables. This herb adds that unforgettable flavor note that turns a simple salad into something special.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
Pour in the olive oil and fresh lemon juice, then sprinkle your salt and black pepper over everything. This simple dressing is incredibly effective at bringing all the ingredients together with a bright, harmonious flavor.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
Now, toss everything gently so you don’t mush the avocado but ensure every piece is coated evenly. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest and most vibrant flavors. This salad is best enjoyed right away when textures are perfect and the flavors truly shine.
How to Serve Fresh Avocado Salad with Cucumber, Tomatoes, and Cilantro Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Fresh Avocado Salad with Cucumber, Tomatoes, and Cilantro Recipe, consider topping it with some toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch or thin slices of radish for a peppery note. A sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese pairs beautifully, adding creaminess and a hint of saltiness.
Side Dishes
This salad is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp to keep a light, healthy meal. It also complements Mexican dishes like tacos or carne asada perfectly, balancing richer flavors with its fresh brightness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this salad in individual small bowls or elegant glass jars for a charming presentation. You might even layer the ingredients in a large clear bowl for a colorful display that lets guests see the gorgeous layers of avocado, cucumber, tomatoes, and cilantro.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers of this Fresh Avocado Salad with Cucumber, Tomatoes, and Cilantro Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Because avocado browns quickly, enjoy within 1 day for best texture and color.
Freezing
This salad isn’t suitable for freezing, as the avocado and fresh vegetables will lose their texture and freshness upon thawing.
Reheating
This Fresh Avocado Salad with Cucumber, Tomatoes, and Cilantro Recipe is best served cold or at room temperature and does not require reheating. Keep it fresh to enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of onion in this salad?
Absolutely! While red onion provides a mild yet flavorful punch, you can substitute it with sweet onion or shallots if you prefer a softer flavor.
How ripe should the avocados be?
Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure but are not mushy. This ensures creamy texture without becoming too soft when diced.
Can I make this salad vegan?
The recipe as is is naturally vegan, with fresh vegetables and olive oil dressing, so it’s great for those following a plant-based diet.
Is the lemon juice essential?
Yes, lemon juice not only adds brightness but also helps slow down the avocado from browning too quickly, keeping your salad fresh-looking.
How long does this salad stay fresh?
Best enjoyed on the day it’s made, but if storing, keep refrigerated and consume within 24 hours for optimal freshness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that effortlessly combines simplicity with fresh, vibrant flavors, this Fresh Avocado Salad with Cucumber, Tomatoes, and Cilantro Recipe is a winner. It’s quick to prepare, visually stunning, and packed with wholesome ingredients that bring out the best in each other. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—you might just find a new favorite that brightens your table and your mood!
Print
Fresh Avocado Salad with Cucumber, Tomatoes, and Cilantro Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and vibrant avocado salad featuring diced avocados, crisp cucumber, juicy grape tomatoes, and red onion, tossed with a zesty lemon juice and olive oil dressing, perfect for a light and healthy meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 large avocados (or 3 small, diced into medium size chunks)
- 1 English cucumber (sliced or diced)
- 1 pint grape tomatoes (or cherry tomatoes, sliced in half)
- 1/2 medium red onion (diced into small pieces)
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Dice the avocado, cucumber, red onion, and slice the grape tomatoes in half to get even-sized pieces for the salad.
- Combine ingredients: Place the diced avocado, cucumber, red onion, and tomatoes into a large mixing bowl to prepare for tossing.
- Add herbs: Chop the fresh cilantro finely and add it to the bowl with the vegetables.
- Dress the salad: Pour in the olive oil and fresh lemon juice, then sprinkle the salt and black pepper over the mixture.
- Toss and serve: Gently toss all ingredients together until evenly coated with the dressing. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors.
Notes
- Serve immediately to prevent the avocado from browning.
- You can substitute cilantro with fresh parsley if preferred.
- For added texture, sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds before serving.
- This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste depending on preference.
