If you are looking for a vibrant and refreshing dish that bursts with fresh flavors and creamy textures, you have to try this Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe. It perfectly blends crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and smooth avocados into a bright and satisfying salad that feels like a celebration in every bite. This salad is not only incredibly easy to prepare, but it also brings a lovely balance of colors, tastes, and textures that make it an absolute favorite for quick lunches, side dishes, or healthy snacks.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh ingredients are the heart of this salad’s deliciousness. Each component adds something special: from the garden-fresh crunch of cucumbers to the rich creaminess of avocado and the zesty brightness of lemon juice that ties everything together.
- Roma tomatoes: These tomatoes offer firm texture and natural sweetness, perfect for soaking up the dressing without turning mushy.
- English cucumber: Crisp and refreshing, English cucumbers bring a cool crunch that balances the avocado’s softness.
- Red onion (half medium): Adds a mild, slightly sweet bite without overpowering the salad.
- Avocados (two): Their creamy texture creates a luscious mouthfeel and a dose of healthy fats.
- Extra virgin olive oil or sunflower oil (2 Tbsp): Adds richness and helps the salad ingredients meld beautifully together.
- Fresh lemon juice (2 Tbsp): Brings bright acidity that lifts the flavors and prevents the avocado from browning.
- Cilantro (1/4 cup chopped): Fresh herbaceous notes give the salad a refreshing punch.
- Sea salt (1 tsp) or table salt (3/4 tsp): Enhances all the natural flavors in the salad.
- Black pepper (1/8 tsp): Adds a spicy hint that rounds out the taste.
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine Fresh Vegetables and Herbs
Start by taking your ripe Roma tomatoes and chopping them into bite-sized pieces. Slice the English cucumber thinly and the red onion into delicate rings. Gently dice the avocados into chunks that will add creamy bursts in each bite. Toss all these fresh components with the chopped cilantro into a large salad bowl, setting the stage for the vibrant salad ahead.
Step 2: Dress and Toss the Salad Gently
Drizzle your salad with 2 tablespoons of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or sunflower oil for a silky texture. Next, squeeze in 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors and keep the avocado from browning too quickly. Toss everything gently, making sure each ingredient is lightly coated in the dressing, so the salad stays crisp and colorful.
Step 3: Season and Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle the salad with 1 teaspoon of sea salt or the equivalent table salt, and add a pinch of freshly ground black pepper. Toss carefully once more to distribute the seasoning evenly, then dig in to enjoy your beautiful, fresh Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe.
How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To dress up this already stunning salad, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or pine nuts for an added crunch. A few sprigs of fresh cilantro on top will elevate the visual appeal and flavor. If you love a bit of heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can add a tantalizing kick.
Side Dishes
This salad shines as a companion to grilled chicken, flaky fish, or even hearty roast meats. Its refreshing nature also pairs wonderfully with light dishes like quinoa, couscous, or grilled vegetables, balancing heartier flavors with crisp freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the salad inside hollowed-out avocado halves for an impressive presentation that doubles as a serving vessel. Alternatively, layering the salad in clear glass jars highlights the striking colors, making it a perfect dish for picnics or potlucks. For a fancier event, offer it in small appetizer cups topped with microgreens for an elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown over time, so try to consume within 1 day for the freshest taste and best appearance.
Freezing
Due to the delicate texture of avocados and fresh vegetables, freezing this salad is not recommended. Freezing would alter the crispness of cucumbers and tomatoes and cause avocados to become mushy and unappealing.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold and fresh, so there’s no need to reheat. If you want to enjoy leftovers, simply give it a gentle toss to redistribute any dressing before serving again.
FAQs
Can I substitute the cilantro if I don’t like it?
Absolutely! If cilantro is not your favorite, fresh parsley or basil can be great alternatives that still add fresh herbaceous notes without overpowering the salad.
How do I keep the avocado from browning?
The lemon juice in the dressing naturally slows down browning. For best results, add the avocado just before serving and store leftovers in an airtight container with a little extra lemon juice on top.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Yes! This Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe contains only plant-based ingredients, making it perfect for vegan diets.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
You can prep the vegetables ahead of time, but it’s best to toss them together with avocado and dressing right before serving to keep everything fresh and colorful.
What other dressings can I use?
While the simple olive oil and lemon juice dressing is perfect here, you can experiment with balsamic vinegar, a splash of red wine vinegar, or a light yogurt-based dressing for variety.
Final Thoughts
This Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe is truly a gem that brings sunshine to your plate with every serving. It’s fresh, easy to make, and endlessly versatile, making it a staple recipe to keep close by for any time you want a quick, healthy, and delicious salad that satisfies. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience how it turns simple ingredients into pure joy!
Print
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This refreshing Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad combines crisp, juicy tomatoes and cucumbers with creamy avocado and zesty lemon dressing for a vibrant, healthy side dish. Perfectly balanced with fresh herbs and a light seasoning, it’s quick to prepare and ideal for warm weather meals.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 lb Roma tomatoes, chopped
- 1 English cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 medium red onion, sliced
- 2 avocados, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro (about 1/2 bunch), chopped
Dressing & Seasoning
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil or sunflower oil
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice (from 1 medium lemon)
- 1 tsp sea salt or 3/4 tsp table salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place the chopped Roma tomatoes, sliced English cucumber, sliced red onion, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro together in a large salad bowl to start building the salad base.
- Add Dressing: Drizzle the salad with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, then toss gently to coat all components evenly with the dressing.
- Season and Serve: Just before serving, season the salad by tossing it with 1 teaspoon of sea salt and 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper to enhance the flavors.
Notes
- For best flavor, use ripe but firm avocados to avoid mushiness.
- This salad is best served immediately to prevent avocado browning.
- You can substitute cilantro with fresh parsley or basil if preferred.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice rather than bottled for a brighter taste.
- To make it vegan, easily swap sunflower oil for olive oil or vice versa.
