Cucumber Avocado Salad Recipe That’s Fresh, Easy and Delicious

Is there anything more refreshing than a crisp salad on a warm day? If you’re looking for a dish that’s not only simple to prepare but also bursts with flavor and nutrition, look no further than this Cucumber Avocado Salad. This salad is the perfect blend of creamy avocado, crunchy cucumbers, zesty lemon, and aromatic herbs, making it an irresistible choice for any meal or snack. Plus, it comes together in minimal time, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your delicious creation.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Cucumber Avocado Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 medium cucumbers, diced (Japanese or English cucumbers are perfect for a sweeter taste)
• 1 large ripe avocado, diced (for creaminess, choose one that’s slightly soft to the touch)
• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped (adds a touch of sharpness)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for a flavorful green accent)
• Juice of 1 lemon (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin for optimum taste)
• Salt and pepper, to taste (enhances the overall flavor)

Optional substitutions:

• Swap red onion for green onions for a milder flavor.
• Use lime juice instead of lemon for a different zesty kick.
• For a spicy twist, consider adding diced jalapeños.

Timing

Now, let’s talk timing. Making this Cucumber Avocado Salad is quick and easy:

• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 10 minutes

That’s right! In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a salad that’s not only vibrant but also around 20% less time-consuming than the average salad preparation. Perfect for when you need something quick and healthy!

How to Make It

1. Prepare the Veggies: Start by dicing the cucumbers and the avocado into bite-sized pieces. For the cucumbers, unpeeled ones provide a lovely crunch and add color; peeled cucumbers give a softer texture. Keep the avocados diced but not mushy to maintain some firmness.

2. Chop the Onion and Herbs: Finely chop the red onion and your choice of herb, whether it’s cilantro or parsley. For the herbs, pick the freshest leaves—these can truly elevate the flavor of your salad.

3. Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lemon juice and olive oil. This combination acts as both a dressing and a preservation method for the avocado, preventing it from browning quickly.

4. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently add the diced cucumbers, avocado, red onion, and herbs. Pour the dressing over the salad, and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Toss Lightly: Using a spatula or wooden spoon, carefully toss everything together. Be gentle to avoid mashing the avocado!

6. Chill (Optional): For best results, let the salad chill in the fridge for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Nutritional Information

A serving of this Cucumber Avocado Salad (~1 cup) provides:

• Calories: Approximately 150
• Fat: 11g (mostly heart-healthy unsaturated fats from avocado and olive oil)
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 7g (great for digestion)
• Protein: 2g

This salad shines not only in flavor but also in nutritional benefits. Reflected in the numbers, it’s clear that this dish is not only light on calories but also rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and fiber.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

You can modify this Cucumber Avocado Salad to suit various dietary preferences:

• Low-Carb Option: Substitute cucumbers with zucchini ribbons or spiralized veggies for a low-carb version.
• Vegan: The original recipe is already vegan-friendly!
• Protein Boost: Add chickpeas or quinoa to introduce more protein while keeping it plant-based.
• Dairy-Free: The salad naturally fits into a dairy-free lifestyle, making it suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals.

Serving Suggestions

This Cucumber Avocado Salad can serve as a versatile centerpiece for any meal. Here are a few ways to make it shine:

• As Side Dish: Pair it with grilled chicken or fish to enhance the meal’s freshness.
• Taco Addition: Serve it atop tacos for added crunch and flavor.
• Wrap It Up: Use large lettuce leaves or whole-grain wraps to create healthy and portable lunch options.
• Brunch Delight: Serve it alongside your favorite brunch items; think avocado toast or omelets.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few pitfalls to avoid while creating your Cucumber Avocado Salad:

• Overripe Avocados: Make sure to choose perfectly ripe avocados; too soft will lead to a mushy salad.
• Too Much Salt: Always start with a little salt, as you can add more but can’t take it out once mixed.
• Chopping Veggies Unevenly: Aim for uniform sizes when dicing vegetables to ensure an even bite and presentation.
• Skipping the Chill Time: While this salad is fresh and flavorful right away, allowing it to chill can enhance its taste and texture.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To maintain the crispness of your Cucumber Avocado Salad:

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container. However, try to consume it within 12 hours, as the avocado can browning over time.
• Keep Ingredients Separate: If meal prepping, store the avocado and dressing separately from the other ingredients until you’re ready to eat.
• Add Avocado Last: If preparing in advance, wait to add the avocado until right before serving to reduce browning.

Conclusion

This Cucumber Avocado Salad is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something truly delicious and refreshing. Its versatility makes it an ideal side or stand-alone dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, preparing lunch for the week, or simply treating yourself to a healthy snack, this salad is a go-to recipe.

Why not give it a try today? We’d love to hear your feedback. Snap a picture of your beautiful creation and share it with us, or explore similar recipes that tantalize your taste buds!

FAQs

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: It’s best to enjoy this salad fresh! However, you can prepare the ingredients and store them separately ahead of time.

Q: What can I use instead of avocado?
A: If you’re avoiding avocado, consider using diced tofu or even chickpeas for creaminess and texture.

Q: Is this salad gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Q: How can I make this salad spicier?
A: For a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.

Explore this fresh and delightful Cucumber Avocado Salad and let its flavors brighten up your culinary repertoire! Enjoy the cooking and the crunch!

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