If you are searching for a fresh, vibrant, and incredibly easy-to-make dish, this Avocado Cucumber Salad Recipe is going to become one of your go-to favorites. It’s the perfect balance of creamy avocado and crisp cucumber, brightened up with zesty lime juice and a touch of sea salt. Whether you’re looking for a light side to accompany your dinner or a refreshing standalone snack on a warm day, this salad delivers freshness and flavor with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role, from the creamy avocado offering rich texture to the crunchy cucumbers providing a crisp bite. The green onions introduce subtle sharpness, while the lime juice and olive oil marry everything together with bright and smooth notes.
- 2 English cucumbers (sliced): English cucumbers have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, making them extra crisp and delightful in salads.
- 1 large avocado (pitted, peeled and sliced): Choose a ripe but firm avocado for creamy texture without mushiness.
- 1/3 cup green onion (half of a bunch, chopped): Adds a mild onion flavor that complements the freshness of the salad.
- 2 Tbsp lime juice (from 1 medium lime): Fresh lime juice brings essential tang and brightness.
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps the flavors blend while keeping the salad light.
- 1 tsp sea salt (or 3/4 tsp table salt, or to taste): Enhances the freshness and rounds out flavors.
- 1/8 tsp black pepper: Just a hint for subtle warmth without overpowering the salad.
How to Make Avocado Cucumber Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Fresh Ingredients
Start by washing and slicing your English cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons for easy eating. Next, carefully pit, peel, and slice the avocado to get those creamy slices that will contrast beautifully with the crunchy cucumber. Chop the green onions finely to incorporate a subtle onion kick without overpowering the salad’s delicate flavors.
Step 2: Combine the Salad
In a medium salad bowl, gently combine the sliced cucumbers, avocado slices, and chopped green onions. Mixing them together now ensures every part of the salad is evenly distributed and ready to soak up the delicious dressing.
Step 3: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the salad with 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice and 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Season with 1 teaspoon of sea salt and a pinch of black pepper—feel free to adjust to your taste. Toss gently but thoroughly so the creamy avocado slices hold together well with the crisp cucumber and tangy dressing.
How to Serve Avocado Cucumber Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra pizzazz, consider sprinkling chopped fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley on top. You might also add a few toasted seeds or nuts like pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds for crunch and an appealing touch.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it an ideal side on barbecue nights. It’s also lovely alongside a bowl of hearty soup or alongside your favorite grain bowl to add fresh texture and brightness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the salad in individual clear glasses for a fancy appetizer or layer it in a mason jar for an easy grab-and-go lunch. Another fun idea is to use the salad as a topping for lettuce wraps or tacos for a refreshing twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Because avocado tends to brown after being exposed to air, it’s best to enjoy this salad fresh. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the salad surface to minimize oxidation. Keep refrigerated and consume within one day for optimal freshness.
Freezing
This Avocado Cucumber Salad Recipe does not freeze well, as cucumbers become watery and avocados lose their creamy texture once thawed. It is best enjoyed fresh to fully appreciate its crisp and creamy contrasts.
Reheating
No need to reheat this salad since it’s best served chilled or at room temperature. The fresh, raw ingredients shine brightest when enjoyed cold, maintaining the crisp textures and vibrant flavors.
FAQs
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?
Absolutely! Regular cucumbers will work just fine, though English cucumbers tend to be less seedy and have thinner skin, which some people prefer in salads for their delicate texture.
How ripe should the avocado be?
The avocado should be ripe enough to be soft and creamy but not so ripe that it becomes mushy. This balance helps maintain texture and prevents the salad from turning overly watery.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the avocado from browning and the cucumbers from becoming soggy.
Can I add other ingredients to this salad?
Yes! Cherry tomatoes, radishes, or fresh herbs can be lovely additions. Just be mindful of balancing flavors so as not to overpower the creamy avocado and refreshing cucumber.
What can I substitute for lime juice?
If you don’t have lime juice, fresh lemon juice is a great substitute that will add a similar bright citrus note to the salad.
Final Thoughts
This Avocado Cucumber Salad Recipe is one of those simple pleasures that never gets old. It’s fresh, colorful, and bursting with flavors and textures that feel like a cool, refreshing hug on a plate. I encourage you to give it a try—you might find yourself making it time and time again as a quick snack, vibrant side, or light meal that feels truly nourishing.
Print
Avocado Cucumber Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and light Avocado Cucumber Salad perfect as a healthy side dish. This easy-to-make salad features crisp cucumbers and creamy avocado tossed in a zesty lime and olive oil dressing with a hint of green onion and seasoning.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 English cucumbers, sliced
- 1 large avocado, pitted, peeled and sliced
- 1/3 cup green onion, chopped (about half of a bunch)
Dressing
- 2 Tbsp lime juice (from 1 medium lime)
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt (or 3/4 tsp table salt, or to taste)
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium salad bowl, gently combine the sliced cucumbers, avocado slices, and chopped green onion to create the base of the salad.
- Dress and Toss: Drizzle the lime juice and extra virgin olive oil over the salad mixture. Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste. Toss the salad gently to evenly coat all ingredients with the dressing, then serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm avocado to maintain texture.
- Adjust salt and lime juice to personal taste preferences.
- This salad is best served fresh and consumed within a few hours to avoid avocado browning.
- Optionally, add fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for extra flavor.
- Perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or as a light snack.
