This fresh cucumber avocado salad is light, crunchy, and full of flavor! With ripe avocados and crisp cucumbers, it’s a perfect side dish for any meal.
I love to toss in a squeeze of lemon for extra zing! It’s a quick and refreshing way to enjoy your veggies—perfect for summer days or anytime you want something healthy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are the base of this salad. I prefer English cucumbers for their thin skin and fewer seeds, but regular ones work too. If you’re short on cucumbers, zucchini can be a great alternative!
Avocados: Ripe avocados add creaminess. Look for ones that yield slightly when pressed. If you’re in a pinch, consider swapping with diced ripe mango for a sweet twist.
Red Onion: Red onions deliver a nice crunch and color. If they’re too strong for your taste, sweet onions or green onions can be milder substitutes.
Cilantro/Parsley: Fresh herbs brighten the salad. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try parsley or even mint for a refreshing change!
Jalapeño: For those who like heat, jalapeño adds a kick. If you prefer a milder flavor, skip it or use a few thin slices of bell pepper for crunch without the spice.
How Do I Make Sure My Avocado Stays Fresh?
Avocados can brown quickly, so it’s important to handle them right. Here are some tips:
- Use ripe avocados. If they aren’t ripe, they won’t mash properly.
- Combine the salad right before you serve. This keeps the avocados from browning too fast.
- Consider covering the avocado with lime or lemon juice—this can slow down the browning process.
If you do have leftover salad, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just be aware that the fresh flavor may not hold as well overnight.
Fresh Cucumber Avocado Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium cucumbers: peeled and diced
- 2 ripe avocados: peeled, pitted, and diced
- 1/4 cup red onion: finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley: chopped
- 1 small jalapeño: (optional) seeded and minced
- Juice of 1 lemon or lime
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad comes together quickly! You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation. If you decide to chill it for 10-15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld, your total time will be about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Veggies:
Start by dicing the cucumbers and avocados. Place them in a large bowl along with the finely chopped red onion, chopped cilantro (or parsley), and minced jalapeño if you like a little spice. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon or lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. This dressing will add great flavor!
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over your cucumber and avocado mixture. Gently toss everything together. Be careful not to mash the avocado; you want it to stay chunky!
4. Taste and Adjust:
Now for the fun part! Give your salad a taste. Do you want a little more salt, pepper, or lemon/lime juice? Adjust the seasoning to make it just right for you!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
For the freshest flavor, serve the salad immediately. If you prefer, you can chill it in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This crisp and creamy salad is perfect as a side dish or a light meal on its own!
Enjoy your fresh cucumber avocado salad! It’s not only tasty but also healthy and refreshing!
Can I Use Different Herbs in This Salad?
Absolutely! If cilantro isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with fresh parsley, dill, or even mint for a unique flavor twist. Each herb will give the salad its own refreshing character!
How Do I Choose Ripe Avocados?
Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure when you squeeze them. If they’re too firm, they’re not ripe yet, and if they feel mushy, they might be overripe. You can also check for dark green skin as an indicator of ripeness!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
This salad is already vegan-friendly! All the ingredients used are plant-based, making it a perfect option whether you’re following a vegan diet or just looking for healthy green options!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. However, keep in mind that the avocados may brown over time. It’s best to consume the salad within a day to enjoy the freshest taste!