If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant, and incredibly satisfying way to brighten your table, this Tomato Cucumber Avocado Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with juicy grape tomatoes, cool cucumber, and creamy avocado, all tossed in a zesty lemon and olive oil dressing, it’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether it’s a quick lunch or a stunning side, this salad brings a colorful pop and fresh taste that will have you reaching for seconds every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with a fresh salad made of three main layers: bright red halved grape tomatoes, light green chunks of diced avocado, and pale to medium green cucumber pieces with darker green skin, all mixed evenly. There are small bits of fresh green cilantro scattered throughout, adding a textured leafy layer on top. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a striped cloth partially visible at the bottom left corner and lemon wedges on the top right side. The colors are vivid, and the vegetables appear fresh and juicy. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Tomato Cucumber Avocado Salad Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is straightforward but plays an important role, contributing freshness, creaminess, and a lively tang to the dish. Let’s talk about the essentials that come together to make this salad so special:

  • Grape tomatoes: These sweet, juicy tomatoes add a burst of color and natural sweetness, providing a delightful bite every time.
  • English cucumber: Crisp and refreshing, the cucumber adds a cool crunch that balances the creaminess of the avocado perfectly.
  • Avocado: Creamy and rich, the avocado brings a buttery texture that elevates this salad beyond the ordinary.
  • Cilantro: Fresh cilantro imparts a bright, herbal note, giving the salad a subtle zing and fragrant aroma.
  • Lemon juice: The acidity from freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens all the flavors and helps tie the salad together with a fresh, citrus punch.
  • Extra virgin olive oil: Adds a smooth, fruity undertone and helps to meld the ingredients and dressing beautifully.
  • Salt: Just a pinch enhances the natural flavors of each ingredient.
  • Ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth, rounding out the salad’s flavor profile.

How to Make Tomato Cucumber Avocado Salad Recipe

Tomato Cucumber Avocado Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Step 1: Prepare the Fresh Ingredients

Start by halving the grape tomatoes, slicing and quartering the English cucumber, and chopping the avocado into bite-sized pieces. Also, finely chop the cilantro. Combining these fresh, raw elements is what makes this salad so refreshing and quick to prepare.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined. This simple dressing is the perfect complement, bringing a light and tangy flavor that enhances the salad’s natural goodness.

Step 3: Toss and Combine

Place the chopped tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, and cilantro into a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece without mashing the avocado. This gentle tossing keeps the textures intact and ensures every bite is flavorful.

How to Serve Tomato Cucumber Avocado Salad Recipe

Garnishes

To take this dish to the next level, sprinkle some toasted pumpkin seeds or crumbled feta cheese on top just before serving. A few torn basil leaves also add an extra herbal dimension that pairs beautifully with the cilantro.

Side Dishes

This salad is incredibly versatile, making a fantastic side for grilled meats like chicken or fish, or alongside a hearty grain bowl. It also pairs wonderfully with warm pita bread or a crusty baguette to soak up any leftover dressing.

Creative Ways to Present

For a delightful presentation, serve this salad in hollowed-out avocado halves or colorful small glass bowls to showcase the vibrant colors. Layering the salad over a bed of mixed greens or arugula can also add volume and an additional peppery bite perfect for entertaining guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store this salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because avocado browns quickly, it’s best enjoyed within a day for the freshest taste and prettiest color.

Freezing

This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the high water content in the cucumber and the creaminess of the avocado, which can become mushy once thawed. Fresh is always best here!

Reheating

Since this is a fresh salad, it’s not intended to be reheated. Serve chilled or at room temperature to enjoy the crisp textures and vibrant flavors fully.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of tomato?

Absolutely! While grape tomatoes are perfect for their sweetness and size, cherry tomatoes or diced roma tomatoes can also work well in this Tomato Cucumber Avocado Salad Recipe.

What can I substitute for cilantro?

If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley or basil are wonderful alternatives that will still add a lovely herbaceous note.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, but it’s best to keep the dressing separate until just before serving to prevent the avocado and cucumber from becoming soggy.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Definitely! Grilled shrimp, chickpeas, or cubed grilled chicken make fantastic additions that turn this salad into a more substantial meal.

How can I make the dressing more flavorful?

Try adding a bit of minced garlic, a touch of honey, or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the lemon-olive oil dressing for a delicious twist on the original.

Final Thoughts

This Tomato Cucumber Avocado Salad Recipe is such a delightful blend of freshness, creaminess, and a bright zing from the lemon dressing, making it one of those dishes you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation. It’s effortless to throw together, vibrant to look at, and endlessly satisfying—so go ahead, give it a try and enjoy a fresh burst of flavor anytime!

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Tomato Cucumber Avocado Salad Recipe

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4.4 from 58 reviews

A fresh and vibrant Tomato Cucumber Avocado Salad that’s quick to prepare and perfect as a light meal or side dish. This salad combines juicy grape tomatoes, crisp cucumber, creamy avocado, and fresh cilantro, all tossed in a zesty lemon and olive oil dressing for a refreshing flavor.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 large English cucumber, sliced and quartered
  • 1 avocado, chopped
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1 + 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice (roughly from 1/2 lemon)
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the halved grape tomatoes, sliced and quartered cucumber, chopped avocado, and chopped cilantro. Gently stir to mix the ingredients evenly without mashing the avocado.
  2. Prepare Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and ground black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
  3. Toss Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to evenly coat everything with the dressing. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors.

Notes

  • For best flavor, use ripe but firm avocado to avoid mushiness.
  • This salad is best served fresh to prevent the avocado from browning.
  • Adjust salt and lemon juice to taste based on preference.
  • Optional: Add a sprinkle of feta cheese or toasted nuts for extra texture and flavor.

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