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The BEST Avocado Salad – Creamy, Colorful, and Loaded with Fresh Flavor

Fresh, simple, and unbelievably satisfying—this BEST Avocado Salad is a nutrient-packed side or light main dish that's as easy as it is delicious. Creamy chunks of avocado are combined with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, red onions, and a zesty lime dressing to bring out every natural flavor. This salad is a go-to favorite for healthy lunches, picnics, BBQs, or as a side dish for almost any meal. Thanks to avocado’s creamy texture and heart-healthy fats, this salad feels indulgent while being completely clean and refreshing. It’s also super adaptable and perfect for every occasion—from meal prep to last-minute dinner ideas!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Produce
  • 2 ripe avocados diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 medium cucumber diced
  • 1/4 red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 jalapeño finely chopped (optional, for a spicy kick)
Pantry
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice or lemon
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Optional: 1/4 tsp cumin or chili powder for a smoky note

Equipment

  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Large salad bowl
  • Small bowl (for dressing)
  • Whisk or fork
  • Measuring spoons
  • Serving spoon or salad tongs

Method
 

Step 1. Prep the Vegetables
  1. Dice 2 ripe avocados into medium-sized chunks.
  2. Halve 1 cup cherry tomatoes.
  3. Dice 1 medium cucumber.
  4. Thinly slice 1/4 red onion.
  5. Chop 1/4 cup fresh cilantro.
  6. Optional: Finely chop 1 jalapeño for extra heat.
Step 2. Combine Salad Ingredients
  1. In a large salad bowl, combine:
  2. Diced avocado
  3. Halved tomatoes
  4. Diced cucumber
  5. Red onion slices
  6. Chopped cilantro
  7. Jalapeño (if using)
Step 3. Make the Dressing
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together:
  2. 2 tbsp olive oil
  3. 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  4. 1/2 tsp salt
  5. 1/4 tsp black pepper
  6. Optional: 1/4 tsp cumin or chili powder
Step 4. Toss and Serve
  1. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients.
  2. Gently toss with a large spoon until everything is evenly coated.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5. Garnish and Enjoy
  1. Serve immediately, topped with extra cilantro or a few slices of lime if desired.
  2. Pairs perfectly with grilled meats, tacos, or as a stand-alone dish.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Best enjoyed fresh – avocado tends to brown after cutting.
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Press plastic wrap directly onto the salad to limit air exposure.
Avoid freezing – avocado and fresh tomatoes do not freeze well.
To refresh: Add a squeeze of fresh lime and a pinch of salt before serving leftovers.
🥄 Variations
Avocado Corn Salad: Add 1 cup grilled or canned corn for extra sweetness.
Mexican Style: Add black beans, diced red bell pepper, and a sprinkle of queso fresco.
Mediterranean: Swap lime for lemon, add feta cheese, and include kalamata olives.
Tropical: Add diced mango or pineapple for a sweet-savory twist.
Greens Base: Serve the avocado mix over arugula, spinach, or mixed greens.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. How do I pick a ripe avocado?
It should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not feel mushy or overly soft.
2. Can I use lemon juice instead of lime?
Absolutely! Lemon juice works just as well and adds a fresh citrus brightness.
3. What if I don’t like cilantro?
Swap it with fresh parsley or basil—or omit entirely.
4. Is this salad good for meal prep?
It’s best served fresh, but you can chop everything except the avocado in advance.
5. How do I keep avocado from browning?
Toss avocado in lime juice as soon as it’s cut. Store with plastic wrap touching the surface.
6. Can I make it spicy?
Yes! Add jalapeño, chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
7. What can I serve this with?
Perfect with grilled chicken, shrimp, tacos, or as a taco bowl base.
8. Can I make it a main dish?
Yes—add a protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, tuna, or tofu for a full meal.
9. Can I add cheese?
Feta, queso fresco, or goat cheese pair beautifully with the creamy avocado.
10. Can I use store-bought dressing?
You can, but fresh lime and olive oil bring the best natural flavors forward.
🏁 Conclusion
This BEST Avocado Salad is a delicious fusion of creamy, crunchy, fresh, and zesty ingredients—all coming together in one bright, satisfying dish. It's versatile, healthy, and super easy to make. Whether you're tossing it together as a side or building it into a hearty main dish, this salad will become a staple in your kitchen in no time!