This Cucumber Avocado Salad is a bright and cool dish, perfect for warm days! It features crispy cucumbers, creamy avocado, and a zesty dressing that ties it all together.
It’s super easy to make and tasty enough to impress your friends! I love serving it as a light lunch or a side dish at barbecues. You just toss, chill, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I recommend using English cucumbers. They are usually seedless and have a thinner skin, making them perfect for this salad. If they’re not available, regular cucumbers are great. Just peel them if the skin seems tough.
Avocado: A ripe avocado is key for creaminess. To choose one, gently squeeze the avocado; it should give slightly but not be mushy. If you’re in a pinch, try using a creamy green bean or leafy greens for a lower-calorie twist.
Cilantro or Parsley: I love cilantro for its fresh flavor, but if you’re not a fan, feel free to swap it out for parsley. Chopped green onions can also add a nice touch!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice adds brightness. If you don’t have lime, lemon juice works, too. Apple cider vinegar is another option for a different tangy flavor.
How Do You Prevent Avocado from Browning?
Avocado can brown quickly once cut. Here are some tips to keep it looking fresh:
- Start with ripe avocados as they are less likely to bruise.
- Coat the avocado slices in lime juice immediately after slicing.
- Serve the salad right after preparing it to enjoy the colors and freshness.
If you need to make it ahead of time, consider adding the avocado right before serving, which helps keep it from browning!
Refreshing Cucumber Avocado Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted, and sliced or cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (about half a lime)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes around 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 15-20 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have a refreshing salad ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing your cucumbers. Then, thinly slice them. You can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds a nice crunch and extra fiber!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers with the chopped fresh cilantro (or parsley, whichever you prefer). Gently add the sliced or cubed avocado to the bowl.
3. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the olive oil and the fresh lime juice over the salad. These will add flavor and help the ingredients stick together.
4. Toss Gently:
With a spoon or spatula, gently toss the salad ingredients together. Be careful not to mash the avocado; you want to keep it nice and chunky!
5. Season to Taste:
Add the sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss again lightly to distribute the seasonings. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This lets the flavors blend beautifully. When ready to serve, enjoy your cool and refreshing salad!
Enjoy this vibrant, creamy, and crunchy salad that balances smooth avocado with crisp cucumber and zesty lime!
FAQ for Refreshing Cucumber Avocado Salad
Can I Use Different Herbs in This Salad?
Absolutely! While cilantro and parsley are great choices, you can also use dill, mint, or basil for a unique flavor twist. Just chop your preferred herb and mix it in with the other ingredients.
What If My Avocado Isn’t Ripe Yet?
If your avocado is still firm, leave it at room temperature for a day or two until it softens. You can also place it in a brown paper bag with an apple or banana to speed up the ripening process.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. To reduce browning, you can sprinkle more lime juice over the avocado before sealing the container. Note that the avocado may brown slightly, but the salad is still safe to eat!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or red onions for extra flavor and texture. You can also include some crumbled feta or grilled chicken for a heartier meal!
