Avocado Salad

This salad is all about fresh flavors, soft textures, and simple ingredients coming together without stress. It’s the kind of dish people reach for when they want something light but still comforting. An avocado salad works beautifully for busy evenings, quick family meals, or even cooler nights when you don’t want anything heavy. It’s easy to prepare, doesn’t require cooking, and feels calm and familiar. I usually make this when I want something fresh on the table fast, using ingredients that are already in the kitchen. It’s gentle, filling in its own way, and fits naturally into everyday meals without extra effort.

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Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe keeps things simple while still feeling satisfying. The creamy avocado pairs with crisp vegetables in a way that feels balanced and comforting. It’s weeknight-friendly, budget-conscious, and flexible enough to adjust based on what you have on hand. You can serve it as a side or turn it into a light main without changing much. Leftovers hold up better than you’d expect when stored properly, which makes planning easier. This avocado salad recipe is cozy in a quiet way, crowd-pleasing without being flashy, and perfect for saving when you want something reliable that doesn’t take much time or thought to pull together.

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Ingredients

Tip: Use ripe but firm avocados that gently give when pressed, not overly soft.

  • Avocados – 3 medium, diced
  • Cherry tomatoes – 1 cup, halved
  • Cucumber – 1 medium, chopped
  • Red onion – ¼ cup, finely sliced
  • Fresh lemon juice – 2 tablespoons
  • Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
  • Salt – ½ teaspoon
  • Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon
  • Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped
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Instructions

Step 1: Preparation
Wash and dry all vegetables well. Dice the avocados into bite-size pieces and place them in a large bowl. Cut the tomatoes and cucumber evenly so everything feels balanced and easy to scoop.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process
There’s no cooking needed here. Let the fresh ingredients sit for a minute after cutting so their natural aromas settle. The avocados should look creamy and smooth, not mashed or watery.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Add tomatoes, cucumber, and onion to the bowl with the avocados. Drizzle lemon juice and olive oil over the top. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, keeping everything light and evenly spread.

Step 4: Finishing & Final Simmer
Gently toss the salad using a wide spoon. The avocado should stay chunky, not crushed. Let it rest for one minute so flavors blend, then finish with chopped parsley before serving.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

This salad comes together in minutes and doesn’t need heat or long prep. You can chop vegetables ahead and assemble when ready. It’s ideal for Pinterest users who save recipes for later and want something quick, calm, and reliable on busy days.

Tips & Tricks

  • Handle avocados gently: Stirring too hard can turn them into mash. Use a soft folding motion to keep the pieces intact and creamy instead of broken down.
  • Add lemon early: Lemon juice helps keep avocados from browning. Waiting too long can lead to dull color and less fresh flavor.
  • Cut evenly: Similar-sized pieces make the salad easier to eat and help flavors mix better. Large chunks can overpower each bite.
  • Taste before serving: Avocados need enough salt. A quick taste lets you adjust seasoning so the salad doesn’t feel flat.

Variations

Meaty Version
Add grilled chicken or shrimp, chopped into small pieces. Mix them in gently so they blend with the avocado without weighing the salad down. This turns it into a filling meal with very little extra work.

Vegetarian Option
Add cooked chickpeas or white beans. They bring texture and help the salad feel more filling while keeping everything simple and plant-based.

Ingredient Swap
Replace cucumber with chopped bell pepper or corn. Both add crunch and a slightly sweet bite that works well with creamy avocado.

Flavor or Herb Boost
Add fresh cilantro or a pinch of garlic powder. Keep it light so the avocado remains the main focus.

Serving Suggestions

  • Weeknight Side Dish
    Serve next to grilled chicken, fish, or eggs. It adds freshness without competing with the main meal.
  • Light Lunch Bowl
    Enjoy on its own with toasted bread. It feels filling but still gentle and easy.
  • Family-Style Table
    Serve in a wide bowl so everyone can help themselves. It feels casual and welcoming.
  • Simple Gathering Plate
    Pair with other small dishes for a relaxed, cozy spread that doesn’t feel heavy.

Storage Instructions

  • Fridge Storage
    Store in an airtight container for up to one day. Press plastic wrap directly on the surface to reduce air exposure and slow browning.
  • Reheating
    This salad should not be reheated. Serve it cold or at room temperature for best texture and flavor.
  • Freezing
    Freezing is not recommended. Avocados lose their creamy texture and become watery once thawed.
  • Make-Ahead Tips
    Chop vegetables ahead but cut avocados just before serving. This keeps everything fresh and green.

Recipe Timing

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Rest Time: 1 minute
  • Total Time: 16 minutes

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

Each serving contains about 280–320 calories, depending on portion size. Protein ranges from 4–6 grams per serving. This dish also provides fiber and potassium from avocados and vegetables. Values are estimates and may vary by ingredients or portions.

FAQs

Prep vegetables ahead, add avocado later.

Overmixing the salad.

Yes, lime juice works.

Avocados may be overripe.

Best eaten within one day.

Conclusion

This salad is meant to feel easy, calm, and adaptable. You can change the vegetables, add protein, or adjust seasoning based on what’s available. That flexibility is what makes an avocado salad worth saving and repeating. It works for quick meals, relaxed lunches, and simple family dinners without fuss. Keep it gentle, keep it fresh, and enjoy having a recipe that fits naturally into everyday life.

Avocado Salad
Print

Avocado Salad

Recipe by Edan SalamonCourse: Salad Recipes
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking timeminutes
Calories

300

kcal

A fresh and creamy salad made with ripe avocados, crisp vegetables, and a light lemon dressing. Simple, comforting, and perfect for everyday meals.

Ingredients

  • 3 medium avocados, diced

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1 medium cucumber, chopped

  • ¼ cup red onion, sliced

  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Directions

  • Wash and dry all vegetables.
  • Dice avocados and place in a bowl.
  • Add tomatoes, cucumber, and onion.
  • Drizzle lemon juice and olive oil.
  • Sprinkle salt and pepper.
  • Toss gently to combine.
  • Rest one minute.
  • Top with parsley and serve.

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