Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad

This Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad is the perfect dish for warm weather. With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, it’s suitable for picnics, barbecues, or as a light lunch. The combination of crunchy cucumbers, creamy avocado, and juicy tomatoes makes it not only delicious but also very appealing. Plus, this salad comes together quickly and can easily be customized to your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad takes just 12 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy days.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The mix of ingredients creates a refreshing taste that bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or a main dish; it pairs well with various cuisines.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients and healthy fats from avocado and olive oil.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like olives or bell peppers.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of the Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad, gather your tools for a seamless cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl helps combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for uniform pieces in your salad.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the dressing evenly before pouring over the salad.

Ingredients

This tomato, cucumber, avocado salad is an easy, flavorful summer salad. It’s crunchy, fresh and simple to make. It’s a family favorite.

For the Salad

• 1 1/2 cups of chopped tomatoes – I used cherry tomatoes
• 1 cucumber – peeled and seeded then diced
• 1 avocado – diced
• 4 oz feta cheese – cubed
• 2 tbs minced red onion
• 1 handful parsley – minced – about 2 tbs

For the Dressing

• 2 tbs olive oil
• 1 tbs red apple vinegar
• 8 twists of black pepper from a pepper mill

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad

Step 1: Chop Tomatoes

Chop tomatoes into a medium dice. If using cherry tomatoes, cut them in half. Add to a bowl.

Step 2: Prepare Cucumber

Peel and seed one cucumber. Dice it into small pieces and add to the bowl.

Step 3: Dice Avocado

Remove the pit from the avocado. Dice it carefully and use a spoon to scoop out the flesh from the peel. Add this to the bowl.

Step 4: Add Feta Cheese

Cube the feta cheese into small pieces and mix it gently into the salad.

Step 5: Incorporate Vegetables

Add minced red onion and minced parsley to the mixture in the bowl.

Step 6: Whisk Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red apple vinegar, and black pepper. Pour this dressing over your salad ingredients.

Step 7: Toss Gently

Toss everything gently so that the feta cheese and avocado remain intact. Serve immediately for best flavor.

Step 8: Refrigerate (Optional)

If you plan on refrigerating before serving, keep the diced avocado aside until just before serving to prevent browning.

How to Serve Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad

This tomato, cucumber, avocado salad is perfect for any gathering or meal. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it an appealing choice. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

As a Side Dish

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken for a light and refreshing meal.
• Serve alongside fish tacos to complement the flavors without overpowering them.

In a Wrap

• Use the salad as a filling in a whole wheat wrap for a nutritious lunch option.
• Add some hummus or tzatziki sauce for extra flavor and creaminess.

On Top of Greens

• Place the salad on a bed of mixed greens for added texture and nutrition.
• Drizzle with balsamic glaze to elevate the taste even more.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve it with slices of crusty bread or baguette for dipping.
• This adds a nice crunch and makes it feel heartier.

How to Perfect Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad

To make this tomato, cucumber, avocado salad truly special, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe ingredients: Ensure your tomatoes and avocados are perfectly ripe for the best flavor.
• Cut uniformly: Dice all ingredients evenly so each bite has balanced flavors and textures.
• Dress just before serving: To keep the vegetables crisp, add dressing right before you serve the salad.
• Experiment with herbs: Try adding fresh dill or cilantro to give the salad a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad

This refreshing salad pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some tasty options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Grilled Chicken: Marinated in lemon and herbs, this protein adds substance and pairs beautifully with the fresh salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty side dish that brings texture and additional nutrients to your meal.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn provides sweetness that balances the acidity of the salad.
4. Pita Chips: Crunchy and salty, these are great for scooping up the salad or enjoying on their own.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies enhance warmth while adding depth to your dining experience.
6. Hummus & Veggie Platter: A colorful assortment of veggies with hummus provides additional crunch and flavor contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a tomato, cucumber, avocado salad is simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using Overripe Avocados: Overripe avocados can make your salad mushy. Choose firm avocados that yield slightly when pressed.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Neglecting to season the salad can result in bland flavors. Always add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance taste.
• Cutting Ingredients Too Small: If you chop the veggies too finely, they may lose their crunch. Aim for a medium dice to keep textures intact.
• Not Tossing Gently: Vigorous tossing can break apart delicate ingredients like feta and avocado. Mix gently to maintain their shape.
• Preparing Too Early: Making the salad too far in advance can lead to wilting. Assemble it just before serving for maximum freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The salad stays fresh for up to 2 days.
• Keep avocado separate until ready to serve to prevent browning.

Freezing Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad

• Freezing Not Recommended: This salad does not freeze well due to the texture of tomatoes and cucumbers once thawed.

Reheating Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad

• Oven: Not recommended; this salad is best served cold.
• Microwave: Avoid reheating in the microwave; this will change the texture of fresh ingredients.
• Stovetop: Not suitable; serve chilled for optimal flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad?

Yes! You can add ingredients like bell peppers, olives, or even grilled chicken for added protein and flavor.

How do I prevent my avocado from browning?

To keep your avocado fresh longer, add it just before serving and sprinkle with lemon or lime juice if you’re preparing in advance.

What dressing goes well with Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad?

A simple olive oil and vinegar dressing works perfectly. You can also try a lemon vinaigrette for extra zest!

Is this Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad healthy?

Absolutely! This salad is packed with healthy fats from avocados and provides plenty of vitamins from the vegetables.

Final Thoughts

This tomato, cucumber, avocado salad is not only easy to prepare but also a refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences. We encourage you to try it out and experience its crunchy freshness!

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Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad

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This Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad is the epitome of fresh summer flavors. Perfect for warm days, this vibrant dish combines crunchy cucumbers, creamy avocado, and juicy tomatoes to create a visually stunning and delicious salad. Ready in just 12 minutes, it’s ideal for picnics, barbecues, or as a light lunch. The best part? It’s easily customizable—add olives or bell peppers to suit your taste. Bursting with freshness and packed with nutrients, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a healthy choice that everyone will love.

• Total Time: 49 minute
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 cups chopped tomatoes (cherry tomatoes recommended)
• 1 cucumber (peeled and diced)
• 1 avocado (diced)
• 4 oz feta cheese (cubed)
• 2 tbsp minced red onion
• 1 handful parsley (minced)
• For the dressing: 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp red apple vinegar
• black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Chop the tomatoes into medium dice and add to a mixing bowl.
2. Peel and seed the cucumber, then dice it into small pieces; add to the bowl.
3. Carefully dice the avocado and scoop it into the bowl.
4. Cube the feta cheese and gently fold it in.
5. Add minced red onion and parsley to the mix.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, and black pepper; pour over salad ingredients.
7. Toss gently to combine without mashing the avocado or feta.
8. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve (keep avocado separate if preparing in advance).

• Author: Juniper
• Prep Time: 12 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: Use ripe ingredients for maximum flavor. Add fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for an extra twist. For added protein, consider incorporating grilled chicken or chickpeas.