Name: Avocado Cucumber Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 2 whole English cucumbers (sliced); 1 large avocado (pitted, peeled and sliced); 1/3 cup green onion (chopped); 2 Tbsp lime juice (from 1 medium lime); 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tsp sea salt (or to taste); 1/8 tsp black pepper

Introduction to Avocado Cucumber Salad

When it comes to refreshing salads that burst with flavor and health benefits, the avocado cucumber salad is an absolute must-try. Picture this: crisp English cucumbers mingled with creamy avocado, all tied together with a zesty lime dressing. This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of nutrients, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.

Why Avocado Cucumber Salad is a Must-Try

One of the best things about this salad is its simplicity. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, it comes together in a mere 10 minutes! Whether you're throwing together a quick lunch or impressing guests at a dinner party, this salad is your go-to solution. The avocado provides healthy fats, while the cucumber adds hydration and crunch, making it a fantastic option for warm days or post-workout meals.

Did you know that avocados are enriched with potassium and vitamins? This salad can also support digestive health due to the fiber from both cucumbers and avocados. Plus, it’s versatile! Feel free to tweak the recipe to make it your own, adding ingredients like cherry tomatoes or chickpeas for added texture and nutrition. For more inspiration, check out Healthline to dive deeper into the benefits of avocados.

Incorporating this scrumptious avocado cucumber salad into your meals not only makes sense for a healthier diet but also enhances your culinary repertoire effortlessly. Let’s dive into the recipe next!

Ingredients for Avocado Cucumber Salad

Fresh Ingredients You'll Love

Creating a vibrant and refreshing Avocado Cucumber Salad is all about using fresh ingredients that bring a burst of flavor and nutrition to your table. Here's what you'll need:

2 English Cucumbers: These are perfect for salads because they’re crisp, mild, and have fewer seeds compared to other cucumber varieties. Slice them thinly for a delightful crunch.
1 Large Avocado: The star of the show! A perfectly ripe avocado adds creaminess and richness, complementing the fresher elements of the salad.
⅓ Cup Green Onion: This mild onion brings a pop of color and a subtle, sweet onion flavor that enhances the overall taste.
2 tablespoon Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed juice from a medium lime brightens the dish and adds a zesty kick. You can learn more about the benefits of lime juice here.
2 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A drizzle of this high-quality oil adds healthy fats and enhances flavor.
1 teaspoon Sea Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors; adjust to your personal taste!
⅛ teaspoon Black Pepper: A dash adds just the right amount of heat.

Gather these lovely ingredients, and you’ll have a salad that not only pleases the palate but also looks stunning on any plate! For more on the health benefits of avocados, check out this insightful article here.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Avocado Cucumber Salad

Creating a vibrant and refreshing avocado cucumber salad is not only quick but also incredibly satisfying! This delightful dish is perfect for warm weather or as a light side dish. Follow these simple steps to whip up a bowl that will have your friends and family coming back for more.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into the prep, it’s always a good idea to gather everything you’ll need to keep the process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 English cucumbers
1 large avocado
⅓ cup green onions
2 tablespoon lime juice
2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon sea salt (or ¾ teaspoon table salt)
⅛ teaspoon black pepper

If you have fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley on hand, consider adding them for an extra layer of flavor!

Slice the Cucumbers and Avocado

Once you have everything in front of you, it’s time to get slicing! Start with the cucumbers:

Slice the English cucumbers thinly. Their crisp texture adds a refreshing crunch to the salad.
Prepare the avocado by cutting it in half, removing the pit, and scooping the flesh out with a spoon. Slice it into bite-sized pieces. Be gentle to avoid turning it into mush!

Chop the Green Onions

Next up, let’s add some vibrant flavor with green onions:

Chop half a bunch until you have about ⅓ cup. The mild onion flavor is a fantastic complement to the creamy avocado and crunchy cucumber.

Mix Ingredients in a Salad Bowl

Now that you have your cucumbers, avocado, and green onions ready, it’s time to mix everything together:

In a medium salad bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, avocado, and chopped green onions. This is where things start to come together and look appetizing!

Prepare the Dressing

The dressing is the true hero of this avocado cucumber salad recipe. Here’s how to make it:

In a small bowl or jar, mix together 2 tablespoon of lime juice, 2 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, and ⅛ teaspoon of black pepper. If you love a bit of zing, you can adjust the lime juice to taste.

Toss and Serve

Finally, let’s bring it all together:

Pour the dressing over your salad mixture and gently toss everything to coat. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture!

This avocado cucumber salad not only looks good but is also packed with essential nutrients, making for a guilt-free indulgence. Enjoy this lovely dish at your next gathering or simply treat yourself on a busy weekday! For more delicious salad recipes, check out EatingWell for a variety of healthy options.

Variations on Avocado Cucumber Salad

Add Cherry Tomatoes for a Pop of Color

Elevate your avocado cucumber salad recipe by adding a handful of cherry tomatoes. These vibrant little gems not only enhance the dish visually but also contribute a burst of sweetness that complements the creamy avocado. Just slice them in half and toss them in with the cucumbers and avocado. Plus, cherry tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, which can add an extra nutritional boost to your salad. Need some tips on growing your own? Check out this guide on how to grow cherry tomatoes.

Spice It Up with Jalapeños

For those who enjoy a little heat, consider tossing in some sliced jalapeños. This addition will certainly kick your avocado cucumber salad up a notch, bringing both spice and flavor. Just remember to adjust the amount to your heat tolerance—start small, and you can always add more. The unique flavor profile of jalapeños not only adds complexity but also pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. Want to explore more about the health benefits of peppers? Dive into this article on the benefits of spicy foods.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Avocado Cucumber Salad

Choosing Ripe Avocados

To create a delicious avocado cucumber salad recipe, selecting perfectly ripe avocados is key. Look for avocados that yield slightly when pressed gently; this indicates they’re ripe and ready to eat. Avoid avocados that feel overly mushy or have dark blemishes, as this can mean overripeness. If you're unsure, purchase slightly firm avocados and let them ripen in a paper bag at room temperature.

Storing Leftovers Properly

If you have leftovers, store your salad in an airtight container. To prevent browning, you can drizzle a little extra lime juice on the avocado before sealing it. It's best to enjoy your avocado cucumber salad within a day to experience the fresh flavors, but if you must keep it longer, consider storing the avocado and cucumber separately until you're ready to serve. For tips on keeping your greens fresh, check out Food Network's guide to produce storage.

Serving Suggestions for Avocado Cucumber Salad

Pairing with Grilled Chicken or Fish

Elevate your avocado cucumber salad recipe by serving it alongside a perfectly grilled chicken or fish. The creamy texture of the avocado and the crunch of the cucumbers create a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of grilled meats. Just imagine biting into a tender piece of lemon-garlic chicken while enjoying the light, zesty salad—it's a match made in culinary heaven! For a delicious glaze, try this honey-lime marinade for chicken that complements the lime dressing beautifully.

Serving as a Tasty Picnic Side

Planning a picnic? This salad is a must! Its vibrant colors and bright flavors make it an enticing addition to any spread. Pack it in a portable container and serve it chilled for a burst of freshness that pairs well with sandwiches or wraps. Bonus: it's packed with nutrients, making it a healthy side that your friends will rave about. Consider incorporating whole grain rolls or chips for that satisfying crunch, too!

Time Breakdown for Avocado Cucumber Salad

Preparation Time

This delightful Avocado Cucumber Salad recipe takes just 10 minutes to prep. With simple chopping and mixing involved, it’s perfect for a quick yet tasty addition to any meal. You can easily whip this up even on your busiest days.

Total Time

In a flash, you can have the whole dish ready in 10 minutes! Whether you're hosting friends or just enjoying a quiet dinner, this salad can be your go-to. For more delicious quick recipes, check out EatingWell for inspiration!

Quick and refreshing, this salad will have you wishing you had made extra. What's stopping you from trying it today?

Nutritional Facts for Avocado Cucumber Salad

Calories per Serving

Each serving of this vibrant avocado cucumber salad recipe contains approximately 169 calories, making it a light yet satisfying addition to your meal. Perfect for lunch or as a refreshing side!

Key Nutrients

This salad isn't just low-calorie; it's rich in essential nutrients:

Healthy Fats: Avocado provides monounsaturated fats that promote heart health.
Vitamins: Packed with vitamin K, C, and E, the ingredients bolster your immune system and skin health.
Fiber: With cucumbers and avocado, this dish helps support digestion.

For a deeper dive into the benefits of these ingredients, check out Healthline's guide to avocados and explore the nutrient profile of cucumbers at Nutrition Data.

This avocado cucumber salad recipe is not only delicious but also a smart choice for maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet!

FAQs About Avocado Cucumber Salad

Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! If you want to prepare this avocado cucumber salad recipe ahead of time, it's best to combine the cucumbers and green onions first, then add the avocado and dressing just before serving. This way, the avocado stays fresh and prevents browning. If you do need to store it for a short period, consider adding a splash of lime juice over the avocado to help it maintain its vibrant color.

What Can I Substitute for Lime Juice?

If you're not a fan of lime juice or run out, don't worry. You can substitute it with lemon juice, which offers a similar tangy flavor. Alternatively, apple cider vinegar can work well for a different twist. Just remember to taste and adjust the seasoning since these options may alter the overall flavor profile slightly.

Are There Any Allergens in This Recipe?

This avocado cucumber salad recipe is naturally free from common allergens like gluten, dairy, and nuts. However, if you're sensitive to any ingredients, always check the labels. If you’re preparing this salad for guests, it's a good practice to ask if anyone has specific food allergies, ensuring a safe and enjoyable dining experience for everyone. For more information on common allergens, check out resources from organizations like the Food Allergy Research and Education.

Conclusion on Avocado Cucumber Salad

Why You Should Make This Salad Today!

If you’re seeking a refreshing side dish that’s quick and easy, this Avocado Cucumber Salad recipe is calling your name! With its creamy avocado paired with crisp cucumbers and zesty lime dressing, it’s not just a feast for the palate, but also a visual delight. Perfect for any meal, this salad will elevate your dining experience while adding a healthy twist. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and whip up this delicious salad today!