If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant dish that perfectly balances crisp, creamy, and tangy flavors, this Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe is a must-try! It’s bursting with bright colors and textures—from the cool crunch of cucumber and juicy pop of cherry tomatoes to the rich creaminess of avocado—making it an irresistible side or light meal. What’s truly fantastic is how quick and simple it is to prepare, yet it tastes like you’ve spent hours crafting something special to share with loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe is all about fresh, straightforward ingredients that bring their own magic to every bite. Each one plays a vital role—whether adding crunch, color, creaminess, or a zesty punch—resulting in a salad that’s balanced and bursting with flavor.
- 1 cucumber (thinly sliced into half-moons): Adds a refreshing crunch and lightness to the salad.
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved): Brings vibrant sweetness and juicy bursts with every bite.
- 1 avocado (cubed): Provides creamy texture and richness that mellows the acidity.
- 1 small-medium red onion (finely chopped): Adds a mild sharpness and subtle color contrast.
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (chopped): We love chives, parsley, and basil for an herby brightness.
- 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar: Gives a tangy sweetness that lifts the whole salad.
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: Smoothly binds the dressing and adds a silky richness.
- 1/2 tablespoon whole grain Dijon mustard: Adds subtle heat and depth to the dressing.
- 1/2 tablespoon honey: Balances acidity with a touch of natural sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Infuses the salad with savory herb flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried garlic powder: Adds a gentle garlic aroma without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Salad Ingredients
Start by placing the sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, cubed avocado, finely chopped red onion, and chopped fresh herbs into a large serving bowl. This colorful mix is the heart of your salad, bringing together crisp, creamy, and tangy elements that make each bite delightful.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
Next, add the white balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, whole grain Dijon mustard, honey, Italian seasoning, dried garlic powder, salt, and pepper into a small jar with a tight-fitting lid. Shake it vigorously until everything is well emulsified. This dressing blends sweet, tangy, and savory notes to complement the fresh veggies beautifully.
Step 3: Dress and Toss the Salad
Pour as much of the dressing over the salad as you like—you can be generous here because the flavors really shine when the salad is well coated. Gently toss everything together, making sure every piece is dressed without mashing the avocado. This keeps the texture perfect and the flavors evenly distributed.
Step 4: Serve Immediately
The secret to a vibrant Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe is to serve it right away. This way, the avocado stays beautifully green, and the salad bursts with freshness. Leaving it for too long causes browning and sogginess, so dive in while it’s freshest!
How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe
Garnishes
If you want to add a little extra flair, sprinkle freshly cracked black pepper or a handful of toasted nuts like pine nuts or sliced almonds for a crunchy contrast. A few additional fresh herb leaves on top also elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This salad is a superstar side dish for grilled chicken, fish, or even a juicy steak. It also pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or as a refreshing component to your picnic basket. Its lightness and bright taste balance out heavier mains beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, serve this salad in a hollowed-out cucumber boat or avocado shell. Alternatively, layer it in clear glass jars or bowls to showcase the vibrant layers for a party or gathering—it’s sure to spark compliments and requests for the recipe!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that avocado tends to brown quickly, so it’s best to add a squeeze of lemon juice before storing to help preserve its lovely green color.
Freezing
This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the fresh vegetables and avocado. Freezing would ruin the texture and freshness, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated briefly.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. Reheating is not recommended as it will compromise the crispness of cucumber and tomatoes and the creaminess of the avocado.
FAQs
Can I use regular balsamic vinegar instead of white balsamic?
You can, but white balsamic vinegar has a lighter, sweeter flavor that complements the salad without overpowering the delicate ingredients. Regular balsamic will add a richer, darker taste and color.
How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
Serve the salad immediately after adding the avocado, or toss the avocado with a little lemon or lime juice before mixing to slow down browning if you plan to store leftovers.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in sliced radishes, bell peppers, or even some diced cucumbers for extra crunch and variety, keeping the balance of fresh and creamy intact.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
This salad is best made fresh, but you can prep the vegetables and dressing separately in advance. Mix them together right before serving to keep everything tasting its best.
What herbs work best in this salad?
Chives, parsley, and basil are our favorites for their fresh, bright flavors. You can experiment with dill or cilantro for a different twist that suits your palate.
Final Thoughts
This Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe is such a gem for any occasion whether you want a quick weekday lunch or a stunning side dish for dinner. Its ease, freshness, and vibrant flavors make it a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how something so simple can taste so spectacular!
Print
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad combining crisp cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy avocado, and fresh herbs, all tossed in a tangy white balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 cucumber (thinly sliced into half-moons)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 avocado (cubed)
- 1 small-medium red onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (chopped; recommended: chives, parsley, and basil)
Dressing Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tablespoon whole grain Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon dried garlic powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad and Dressing: Add all salad ingredients—cucumber, cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and fresh herbs—to a large serving bowl. In a separate small jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the white balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, whole grain Dijon mustard, honey, Italian seasoning, dried garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Shake well to emulsify the dressing.
- Toss the Salad: Pour as much dressing over the salad as desired and gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated. For a more flavorful salad, use all the dressing. If a lighter touch is preferred, reserve leftover dressing for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the salad right away to prevent the avocado from browning and to enjoy the freshest flavors and textures.
Notes
- The salad is best served immediately due to avocado’s tendency to brown quickly.
- Leftover dressing can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and used as a vinaigrette for other salads.
- Fresh herbs can be adjusted according to preference or availability.
- For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste depending on dietary preferences.
