Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad

This Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for any summer gathering. With its crunchy texture and burst of flavors, it stands out as a family favorite. Whether you serve it at a picnic, barbecue, or as a light lunch, this salad is sure to impress. Easy to prepare and packed with fresh ingredients, it’s not just delicious—it’s also nutritious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad takes only 12 minutes to make, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
• Fresh Flavors: The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and tangy feta creates an explosion of taste in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side or main dish, it’s great for picnics, barbecues, or even as a light lunch.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad is both filling and good for you.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas for added flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Cutting board: A stable surface that helps you chop ingredients safely and efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for your vegetables and makes preparation quicker.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious container where all your ingredients can come together without spilling.
• Whisk: Perfect for combining dressings smoothly without clumps.

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: Prepare the Tomatoes

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

Step 2: Dice the Cucumber

Peel and seed one cucumber before dicing it. Add the diced cucumber to the bowl with the tomatoes.

Step 3: Add the Avocado

Remove the pit from the avocado. Dice it and scoop out the flesh using a spoon. Gently add it to your mixing bowl.

Step 4: Cube the Feta Cheese

Take your feta cheese and cut it into small cubes. Add these to the salad mixture.

Step 5: Mix in Onions and Parsley

Add minced red onion and parsley to the bowl for extra flavor.

Step 6: Prepare the Dressing

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

Step 7: Toss Gently

Using two utensils or your hands (if preferred), toss everything gently so that the feta and avocado don’t break apart too much. Serve immediately!

Step 8: Refrigeration Tip

If you’re planning to refrigerate the salad before serving, keep the avocado aside and add it just before serving for maximum freshness!

How to Serve Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad

Serving a tomato, cucumber, avocado salad can elevate any meal. This refreshing dish pairs beautifully with various main courses or can be enjoyed on its own for a light lunch.

As a Standalone Lunch

• A light choice: Enjoy the salad by itself for a quick and nutritious midday meal.
• Perfect for picnics: Pack it in a container for an easy outdoor dining option.

Accompanying Grilled Meats

• Grilled chicken: The fresh flavors of this salad complement the charred taste of grilled chicken.
• Barbecue ribs: Serve alongside tender ribs for a delightful contrast of flavors.

With Seafood Dishes

• Grilled salmon: The richness of salmon balances well with the freshness of the salad.
• Shrimp tacos: Add this salad as a refreshing side to enhance your taco experience.

Topping for Toasts

• Avocado toast upgrade: Spread avocado on toast and top it with the salad for added texture and flavor.
• Bruschetta base: Use the salad as a topping on toasted bread for an easy appetizer.

How to Perfect Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad

To make your tomato, cucumber, avocado salad even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use ripe avocados: Ensure your avocados are perfectly ripe for creaminess that enhances the overall flavor.
• Chill before serving: Refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes to let the flavors mingle before serving.
• Add citrus juice: A squeeze of lime or lemon juice can brighten up the flavors and prevent browning of the avocado.
• Experiment with herbs: Fresh basil or dill can add unique flavors and freshness to your salad.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference.
• Keep it crunchy: For extra crunch, add some diced bell peppers or radishes just before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad

This salad pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that complement its fresh flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Mixed seasonal veggies grilled to perfection add smoky flavor and texture.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa side dish provides protein while keeping things light and healthy.
3. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread offers a savory contrast to the fresh ingredients in the salad.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs create a hearty companion to this refreshing dish.
5. Coleslaw: A crisp coleslaw adds crunch and tanginess that pairs nicely with the creamy elements of the salad.
6. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad complements the tomato, cucumber, avocado salad without overpowering it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a tomato, cucumber, avocado salad can be simple, but there are common mistakes that could affect the outcome. Here are some tips to help you avoid these pitfalls.

• Using Overripe Avocado: An overripe avocado can ruin the texture of your salad. Choose avocados that yield slightly when pressed but are not mushy.

• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs enhance flavor significantly. Don’t skip parsley; it adds freshness and depth to the dish.

• Cutting Ingredients Too Small: If you chop your vegetables too finely, they may lose their crunch. Aim for medium-sized pieces for a better texture.

• Not Draining Cucumbers: Cucumbers can release water and make your salad soggy. After dicing, consider salting them lightly and draining excess moisture before adding to the bowl.

• Forgetting to Toss Gently: Tossing too vigorously can break up feta and avocado. Use a gentle hand when mixing to keep the salad intact.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Container: Use an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Note: Add avocado just before serving if you’re planning to store leftovers.

Freezing Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad

• Duration: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as the texture of cucumbers and avocados changes drastically.
• Tip: Prepare fresh servings instead for optimal taste.

Reheating Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad

• Oven: This salad is best served cold; reheating isn’t necessary.
• Microwave: Avoid microwaving; it will alter the texture of the vegetables.
• Stovetop: Again, this dish is meant to be enjoyed cold; no stovetop reheating is required.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I customize my Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad?

You can add various ingredients like olives or bell peppers for extra flavor. Experiment with different herbs such as cilantro or mint!

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

Yes! You can prep all ingredients ahead of time but mix them together just before serving to keep everything fresh.

What other dishes pair well with Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad?

This salad goes great with grilled chicken or fish. It also complements sandwiches perfectly!

Is this Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Just remember to store the avocado separately until you’re ready to eat for the best flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This tomato, cucumber, avocado salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that captures the essence of summer. It’s quick to make and incredibly versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients! Give it a try at your next gathering or as a refreshing side dish during hot days.

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Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the refreshing flavors of this Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad — a perfect dish for summer gatherings that combines juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and creamy avocado. With its vibrant colors and delightful crunch, this salad is both a feast for the eyes and the palate. It takes just 12 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous picnics. The combination of fresh ingredients not only tantalizes your taste buds but also nourishes your body.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 cups chopped cherry tomatoes
• 1 diced cucumber (peeled and seeded)
• 1 diced avocado
• 4 oz cubed feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons minced red onion
• Handful of fresh parsley (minced)
• Dressing: 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red apple vinegar
• black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Chop the tomatoes into medium dice and place them in a mixing bowl.
2. Peel, seed, and dice the cucumber; add to the bowl.
3. Remove the pit from the avocado, dice it, and gently add it to the mix.
4. Cube the feta cheese and incorporate it into the salad.
5. Add minced red onion and parsley for added flavor.
6. In another bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, and black pepper; pour over salad mixture.
7. Toss gently to combine without breaking up the avocado or feta too much.
8. For best results, refrigerate for about 30 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 12 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 15mg