Smashed Cucumber Avocado Salad Recipe

Cucumber avocado salad is a light and refreshing dish made by combining diced cucumbers, creamy avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh cilantro. A zesty dressing made from lime juice and olive oil ties everything together. This healthy salad is perfect for those looking for a quick and nutritious meal option.

This salad comes together in just about 10 minutes, making it a great choice for busy days. No cooking is required, and the ingredients are simple to prepare. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a couple of hours, allowing the flavors to blend.

This salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or fish. The fresh ingredients, especially the cucumber and avocado, complement each other nicely, creating a balance of texture and taste. The lime juice gives it a zesty kick, while the cilantro adds a burst of flavor that elevates the entire dish. It’s a go-to recipe for anyone seeking a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Avocado Salad

• Fresh and Light: This cucumber avocado salad is light yet refreshing, perfect for warm days. The crisp cucumbers and creamy avocados blend beautifully, making it a delightful dish that won’t weigh you down.
• Packed with Nutrients: This salad is loaded with healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Avocados provide heart-healthy fats, while cucumbers offer hydration and fiber, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Quick and Easy to Make: If you’re short on time, this cucumber avocado salad is the perfect solution. It takes only minutes to prepare, offering a simple yet satisfying option for lunch or a side dish.

Ingredient Notes for a Cucumber Avocado Salad

• Cucumber: Fresh and crunchy, cucumber adds a cool, hydrating element to the salad. It’s rich in water, which helps balance the creaminess of the avocado.
• Avocado: Creamy and buttery, avocado provides healthy fats and a smooth texture. It also enhances the flavor and makes the salad more filling.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion gives a slight bite and a pop of color to the salad. It adds a mild, sweet taste that balances well with the other ingredients.
• Fresh Cilantro: This herb adds a burst of freshness. Its bright, citrusy flavor enhances the overall taste and complements the creamy avocado.
• Lime: Lime juice brings a zesty, tangy element that brightens the salad. It also helps prevent the avocado from browning and adds a refreshing citrus flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the vegetables. A pinch of salt and a dash of pepper are all you need for balance.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness and depth to the salad. Olive oil ties all the ingredients together and provides healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, cherry tomatoes bring color and natural sweetness to the salad. Their slightly tart flavor contrasts nicely with the avocado’s richness.

Cucumber Avocado Salad Variation

While the basic cucumber avocado salad is delicious on its own, there are several variations you can try to add more flavors and textures. Here are a few ideas to mix things up:

• Add Cherry Tomatoes: Add halved cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and sweetness.
• Include Red Onion: Thinly slice red onion for a tangy bite and a bit of crunch.
• Incorporate Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a salty, creamy element to balance the avocado.
• Spicy Kick: For those who like a bit of heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
• Add Quinoa or Chickpeas: If you’re looking for something more filling, add cooked quinoa or chickpeas for added protein and fiber.

How to Serve Cucumber Avocado Salad

Cucumber avocado salad can be served in a variety of ways depending on your occasion. Here are a few serving ideas:

• As a Side Dish: This salad works great as a refreshing side for grilled meats, fish, or sandwiches.
• As a Light Meal: If you’re craving a light lunch or dinner, pair the salad with a piece of whole grain bread or a hard-boiled egg for a more complete meal.
• Topped with Grilled Chicken or Tofu: For added protein, top the salad with grilled chicken or tofu to make it more substantial.

Storage Options

Cucumber avocado salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, there are some storage options to keep the ingredients as fresh as possible:

• For Short-Term Storage: If you plan to eat the salad within a day, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. However, the avocado may begin to brown over time.
• To Prevent Browning: To keep the avocado from turning brown, you can add extra lemon or lime juice. A quick trick is to cover the avocado pieces with plastic wrap, ensuring it is tightly sealed against the avocado to minimize air exposure.
• For Longer Storage: If you need to store the salad for a longer period, it’s best to keep the cucumber and avocado separate. You can combine them just before serving to maintain the texture of the avocado.

FAQs About Cucumber Avocado Salad

How do you make cucumber avocado salad?
To make a cucumber avocado salad, simply chop cucumbers and avocados, mix them together, and add your favorite dressing or seasoning. You can also include ingredients like tomatoes, red onions, or herbs for extra flavor.

Can you prepare cucumber avocado salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cucumber avocado salad in advance, but it’s best to add the avocado just before serving to prevent it from browning. If preparing early, you can store the ingredients separately and mix them later.

Is cucumber avocado salad healthy?
Yes, cucumber avocado salad is a healthy option. It’s packed with vitamins, healthy fats from avocado, and hydration from cucumbers, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.

Can you add protein to cucumber avocado salad?
Absolutely! You can add protein to cucumber avocado salad by including grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. This adds a boost of protein and makes the salad even more filling.