Avocado Cucumber Salad

This refreshing Avocado Cucumber Salad is a light, vibrant dish that combines the creaminess of ripe avocados with the crunch of fresh cucumbers, tossed in a simple citrus-herb dressing. It’s the perfect side for warm days or as a healthy, standalone light meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll appreciate this recipe for its simplicity, speed, and fresh flavor. It’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences. Plus, it requires no cooking — just chop, mix, and serve. The contrast of textures, paired with a zesty lime or lemon dressing, makes it wonderfully satisfying yet light.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ripe avocados
• fresh cucumber (preferably English or Persian cucumbers)
• red onion
• fresh parsley or cilantro
• fresh lime or lemon juice
• olive oil
• salt and black pepper
• optional: minced garlic, chili flakes, or cumin for extra flavor

Directions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Dice the cucumber into bite-sized pieces (you can peel or leave skin on depending on preference). Cut the avocados into similar-sized cubes. Finely dice the red onion.
2. Chop the herbs: Finely chop fresh parsley or cilantro.
3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lime or lemon juice with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Add optional garlic or chili flakes if desired.
4. Combine: Gently mix the avocado, cucumber, onion, and herbs in a large bowl. Drizzle with dressing and toss carefully to coat without mashing the avocado.
5. Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving for even more refreshing flavor.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4 as a side dish
• Prep time: 10–15 minutes
• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and sweetness.
• Include feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
• Swap parsley for dill or mint to change the flavor profile.
• Add chickpeas for more protein and heartiness.
• Use a yogurt-based dressing for a creamy variation.

Storage/reheating

• Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. The avocado may brown slightly but will still taste good.
• Do not freeze. The texture of avocado and cucumber does not hold up to freezing.
• Tip: To store longer, add the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.

FAQs

1. How do I prevent the avocado from browning?

Toss the avocado in citrus juice (lime or lemon) immediately after cutting. This slows oxidation and keeps it green.

2. Can I make this salad in advance?

You can prepare the cucumber, onion, and herbs ahead, but add avocado and dressing right before serving for best freshness.

3. What cucumbers are best for this salad?

English or Persian cucumbers are ideal as they are seedless and have thin skin. Regular cucumbers work too but may need peeling and seeding.

4. Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes. It is naturally low in carbohydrates and fits well within a ketogenic diet.

5. Can I use bottled lemon or lime juice?

Fresh juice is preferred for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

6. What herbs go best in this salad?

Parsley, cilantro, dill, and mint all work well. Choose based on your flavor preference.

7. Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Yes. Grilled chicken, shrimp, tuna, or chickpeas pair well with this salad.

8. How can I make the salad spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeño, or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.

9. What’s a good substitute for red onion?

Shallots or thinly sliced green onions are good alternatives. You can also soak red onion in water for 10 minutes to mellow the flavor.

10. Can I use lemon instead of lime?

Yes. Both lemon and lime work well — lime gives a slightly more tropical flavor, while lemon is brighter.

Conclusion

This Avocado Cucumber Salad is an effortless and nourishing recipe that delivers freshness in every bite. With minimal ingredients and a vibrant dressing, it’s ideal for quick lunches, potlucks, or a refreshing side dish. Whether you serve it alongside grilled meats or enjoy it solo, its clean flavors and creamy-crisp contrast will keep you coming back for more.

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