Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad

This Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad is the perfect dish for summer gatherings and picnics. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a standout choice for any occasion. Easy to prepare and healthy, this salad combines crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocados, making it a delightful addition to your meal. Whether you serve it as a side or enjoy it as a light lunch, this salad will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: You can whip this salad up in just 12 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers.
• Fresh Flavors: The combination of tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocados creates a refreshing taste that captures the essence of summer.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side dish at barbecues or enjoy it on its own for a healthy lunch—it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad not only tastes great but is good for you too.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or proteins to make this salad uniquely yours!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your tomato, cucumber, avocado salad, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without spilling.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for your vegetables, preserving their texture and appearance.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps blend dressings quickly and evenly for better flavor distribution.

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 the Tomatoes

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

Step 2: Prepare the Cucumber

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

Step 3: Dice the 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 your bowl.

Step 4: Cube the Feta Cheese

Cube the feta cheese into bite-sized pieces. Once cubed, add it to your salad mixture in the bowl.

Step 5: Add Onion and Parsley

Add minced red onion and minced parsley to the bowl with all other ingredients.

Step 6: Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red apple vinegar, and black pepper until well combined. Pour over your salad.

Step 7: Toss Gently

Toss everything gently so that the feta cheese and avocado don’t break apart. Serve immediately for best freshness.

Step 8: Storing Leftovers

If you’re refrigerating leftovers, keep the diced avocado aside and mix it in just before serving for optimal freshness.

How to Serve Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad

This tomato, cucumber, avocado salad is refreshing and versatile. It can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

As a Light Lunch

• Serve it in a bowl with crusty bread on the side for a satisfying yet light meal.

As a Side Dish

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish to complement the flavors and add protein.

In a Wrap

• Use the salad as a filling in a whole wheat wrap for an easy-to-eat lunch option.

On Top of Greens

• Serve the salad over a bed of mixed greens for added nutrients and color.

How to Perfect Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad

For the best results with your tomato, cucumber, avocado salad, follow these simple tips.

• Choose ripe avocados – Ripe avocados will add creaminess and flavor to your salad.
• Use fresh herbs – Fresh parsley enhances the taste and adds brightness to your dish.
• Add salt just before serving – This helps maintain the texture of your vegetables without making them soggy.
• Mix gently – Toss the salad gently to avoid mashing the avocado and feta cheese.
• Chill before serving – Allowing it to chill for 30 minutes enhances the flavors and makes it more refreshing.

Best Side Dishes for Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad

Pairing side dishes with your tomato, cucumber, avocado salad can elevate your meal. Here are some ideas:

1. Grilled Chicken – A simple grilled chicken breast seasoned with herbs complements the freshness of the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf – Nutty quinoa cooked with vegetables adds protein and pairs well with the salad’s flavors.
3. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread offers crunch and richness that balance the fresh ingredients of the salad.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Roasted seasonal vegetables provide a warm contrast to the coolness of the salad.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or beans make for a hearty addition to your meal.
6. Pasta Salad – A light pasta salad can be an excellent choice for those who want something filling alongside their fresh salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your tomato, cucumber, avocado salad, avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

• Using overly ripe avocados: Overripe avocados can ruin the texture of your salad. Choose firm avocados that yield slightly when pressed for the best flavor and consistency.
• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to add salt and pepper can lead to a bland salad. Season your ingredients as you go to enhance their natural flavors.
• Cutting ingredients too small: Chopping vegetables into tiny pieces can make the salad mushy. Aim for a medium dice to maintain crunch and freshness.
• Not serving immediately: This salad tastes best when fresh. If you prepare it in advance, keep the avocado separate until serving to prevent browning.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Low-quality tomatoes or cucumbers can affect overall taste. Use fresh, in-season produce for a vibrant and delicious salad.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the avocado separate if preparing ahead.

Freezing Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad

• Not recommended: Freezing this salad can alter its texture and flavor.
• Fresh ingredients do not thaw well, especially avocado.

Reheating Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad

• Oven: Not ideal for this salad; it is best served cold.
• Microwave: Avoid using the microwave as it will wilt vegetables.
• Stovetop: Again, reheating is not recommended; enjoy fresh!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad in advance?

Yes, but it’s best to keep the avocado separate until just before serving to maintain its freshness and color.

What are some variations of Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad?

You can add ingredients like corn, bell peppers, or even beans for added texture and flavor.

How do I ensure my Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad stays fresh?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days.

Is Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad healthy?

Absolutely! This salad is packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and healthy fats from avocado.

Final Thoughts

This tomato, cucumber, avocado salad is a refreshing choice perfect for summer. Its vibrant colors and flavors make it not only appealing but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the seasonings. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!

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Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad

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Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. This colorful salad brings together the crunchiness of cucumbers, the juiciness of tomatoes, and the creaminess of ripe avocados for a delightful flavor combination. Whether you’re hosting a picnic or looking for a quick light lunch, this salad is both easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. It can be served as a side dish at barbecues or enjoyed on its own for a healthy meal option. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and minimal prep time, you can impress family and friends with this delicious and nutritious salad.

• Total Time: 12 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 4 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 cups chopped tomatoes (preferably cherry tomatoes)
• 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
• 1 avocado, diced
• 4 oz feta cheese, cubed
• 2 tbs minced red onion
• 2 tbs minced parsley
• 2 tbs olive oil
• 1 tbs red apple vinegar
• Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Chop tomatoes into medium-sized pieces or halve cherry tomatoes.
2. Peel and seed the cucumber, then dice it into small pieces.
3. Carefully dice the avocado and scoop it into the mixing bowl.
4. Cube the feta cheese and add it to the salad mixture.
5. Add minced red onion and parsley to the bowl.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red apple vinegar, and black pepper.
7. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
8. Serve immediately or refrigerate leftovers without avocado to maintain freshness.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 12 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: For optimal taste, choose ripe avocados that yield slightly when pressed. Feel free to customize by adding ingredients like corn or bell peppers for extra texture. To enhance flavors, chill the salad for about 30 minutes before serving.