Crisp, creamy, and refreshingly tangy, this avocado salad is a vibrant addition to any meal. The combination of smooth avocados, crunchy cucumbers, and zesty lime dressing creates a balance of textures and flavors that is both satisfying and invigorating. Whether served as a light meal on its own or as a complementary side dish, this salad is effortless to prepare yet rich in taste. With its simple yet fresh ingredients, it’s perfect for any season and pairs well with a variety of dishes.
Ingredient Breakdown
Selecting the right ingredients ensures this salad shines in both flavor and texture. Ripe avocados provide a buttery consistency, and choosing ones that yield slightly under gentle pressure ensures they hold their shape without becoming mushy. Crisp cucumbers add a refreshing bite; Persian or English cucumbers work best due to their thin skin and fewer seeds. Finely sliced red onions bring a mild sharpness that balances the creamy elements, and soaking them in cold water for a few minutes can reduce any harshness. Fresh herbs like dill and cilantro enhance the salad with their bright, aromatic notes, making each bite more vibrant. The dressing ties everything together with extra virgin olive oil for richness, lime juice for acidity, and a dash of red pepper flakes for subtle heat. A sprinkle of kosher salt and black pepper amplifies the flavors, ensuring every ingredient is well-seasoned.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Ensuring each step is executed properly enhances the salad’s taste and texture.
The avocados should be sliced with care to prevent them from turning mushy. A simple method is to cut them in half, remove the pit, slice them into quarters, and then cut them into even slices. Cucumbers should be cut into uniform rounds for consistency, while red onions need to be sliced finely for an even distribution of flavor.
The dressing is a delicate balance of richness and acidity. Combining extra virgin olive oil with lime juice creates a fresh, tangy base. Red pepper flakes and black pepper add warmth, while kosher salt enhances all the flavors. Adjusting the lime juice to personal taste can ensure the perfect level of acidity.
To assemble the salad, gently combine the cucumbers, avocados, red onions, and herbs in a large bowl. The dressing should be drizzled over the top, followed by a light toss to coat all the ingredients evenly. Care should be taken to avoid mashing the avocado slices.
Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Adding an extra squeeze of lime or a pinch of salt can refine the final flavor. The salad is best enjoyed immediately while the ingredients are fresh and crisp.
Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
How to keep avocado from browning if preparing in advance:
Coat avocado slices in lime juice before adding them to the salad. This helps slow oxidation and keeps them fresh longer.
Adjusting spice levels to suit different palates:
Increase or decrease red pepper flakes according to personal preference, or add a touch of finely diced fresh chili for extra heat.
The best way to store leftovers while maintaining freshness:
Store the salad in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed against the surface to minimize air exposure. Consume within 24 hours for the best texture and taste.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It’s best made fresh, but the cucumbers and onions can be prepped in advance. Add the avocado and dressing just before serving.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator and eat it within a day to maintain optimal freshness.
Can I substitute cilantro with another herb?
Yes, parsley or basil can be used as alternatives for a different herbal note.
How can I make the dressing creamier?
Blend in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or avocado for a richer, smoother consistency.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This salad pairs well with a variety of dishes. Grilled meats such as chicken, steak, or salmon complement its fresh, tangy flavors. For plant-based options, roasted chickpeas or grilled tofu add a satisfying protein boost. It also works beautifully as a topping for grain bowls or served alongside crusty bread for a simple yet delicious meal. For an eye-catching presentation, serve the salad in a shallow dish and garnish with extra herbs and a final drizzle of olive oil.
Customization Ideas
For a heartier version, adding shrimp, shredded chicken, or even grilled halloumi can elevate the salad into a complete meal. Those who enjoy a hint of sweetness can incorporate mango or pomegranate seeds. The dressing can also be modified by swapping lime juice for balsamic vinegar or adding a touch of honey for balance. To introduce more crunch, sprinkle toasted almonds, pumpkin seeds, or crispy tortilla strips over the top.
Avocado salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that can be customized to suit any taste. Its combination of creamy, crunchy, and tangy elements makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether served as a light lunch, a refreshing side, or a colorful addition to a dinner spread, this salad is effortlessly delicious. Experimenting with different ingredients and variations ensures it never gets boring—so mix, match, and enjoy!
Ingredients
Salad:
3 cucumbers (~17cm/7″ each), sliced into thin rounds (4mm / 1/6″) (Note 1)
1/4 red onion, finely sliced
2 large ripe avocados, quartered and then cut into 1 cm / 0.4″ slices
2 tbsp coriander/cilantro leaves, roughly chopped (optional but recommended) (Note 2)
2 tbsp dill, finely chopped (optional but recommended) (Note 2)
Dressing:
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
3 tbsp lime juice or lemon juice (adjust to taste)
3/4 tsp kosher salt or cooking salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (chili flakes)
Instructions
Combine the cucumbers, red onion, and avocado slices in a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped coriander and dill if using.
Drizzle the lime juice and olive oil over the salad, then sprinkle the salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes evenly across the ingredients.
Gently toss everything together using your hands, carefully separating the avocado slices as needed to ensure an even coating of the dressing. Taste and adjust with more lime juice if desired.
Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy immediately.
Avocado Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Salad:
- 3 cucumbers ~17cm/7″ each, sliced into thin rounds (4mm / 1/6″) (Note 1)
- 1/4 red onion finely sliced
- 2 large ripe avocados quartered and then cut into 1 cm / 0.4″ slices
- 2 tbsp coriander/cilantro leaves roughly chopped (optional but recommended) (Note 2)
- 2 tbsp dill finely chopped (optional but recommended) (Note 2)
Dressing:
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp lime juice or lemon juice adjust to taste
- 3/4 tsp kosher salt or cooking salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes chili flakes
Instructions
- Combine the cucumbers, red onion, and avocado slices in a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped coriander and dill if using.
- Drizzle the lime juice and olive oil over the salad, then sprinkle the salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes evenly across the ingredients.
- Gently toss everything together using your hands, carefully separating the avocado slices as needed to ensure an even coating of the dressing. Taste and adjust with more lime juice if desired.
- Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Cucumbers: If using long telegraph or English cucumbers (~30cm/12″ each), use 1 ½ instead of three smaller ones.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill and coriander bring a bright, herby flavor, but they aren’t essential. If making this for company, they’re worth adding! If you dislike coriander, replace it with an extra tablespoon of dill or use parsley as a substitute.
- Leftovers: The salad stays fresh until the next day, and the avocado remains green! However, like most salads, it’s best enjoyed immediately.
