Avocado Salad
Savor the delightful combination of creamy avocado, crisp vegetables, and zesty dressing in this avocado salad. It’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious eaters. Perfect as a refreshing side for any meal or as a light lunch on its own, this salad will quickly become a favorite. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this delicious dish!
Ingredients
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (e.g., cilantro or parsley)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes with no cooking time required.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/2 salad) contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 12g
– Fats: 22g
– Fiber: 9g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Start by gathering all your ingredients.
2. Cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a bowl.
3. Dice the avocado into bite-sized pieces.
4. Dice the cucumber and add it to the bowl with the avocado.
5. Halve the cherry tomatoes and add them to the mixture.
6. Thinly slice the red onion and mix it in.
7. Crumble the feta cheese over the salad.
8. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lime juice.
9. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
10. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh herbs.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute feta cheese with goat cheese for a different flavor. If you’re looking for a vegan option, omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. Additionally, consider adding nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
Serving and Pairings
This avocado salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. It can also be served alongside whole grain bread or as part of a larger buffet spread. Enjoy it with a refreshing drink for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the avocado may brown, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. This dish is not suitable for freezing due to the texture changes in the avocado.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t use overripe avocados; they can be mushy and off-putting.
– Avoid cutting the salad too early; it’s best served fresh.
– Be cautious with salt; feta is already salty.
– Don’t skip the lime juice; it prevents browning and enhances flavor.
– Ensure the veggies are fresh for the best taste and texture.
Helpful Tips
– Use a sharp knife to cut avocados cleanly.
– Try adding a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
– Experiment with different herbs for varied flavors.
– Serve immediately after preparation for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While the salad can be prepared a few hours in advance, it’s best to add the avocado and dressing just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent browning.
What can I add for extra protein?
For extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa. These additions will enhance the salad’s nutritional value and make it more filling.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this avocado salad can be made vegan by omitting the cheese or substituting it with a plant-based alternative.
How can I make this salad spicier?
To add spice, incorporate sliced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or chili flakes into the salad for an extra kick.
Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include other veggies like bell peppers, radishes, or corn to customize the salad to your taste.
Conclusion
This avocado salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a healthy, delicious option for any meal. With its blend of fresh ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a go-to recipe that everyone will love. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the numerous health benefits each serving brings!
Avocado Salad
Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 cucumber diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/4 red onion thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs e.g., cilantro or parsley
Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients.
- Cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a bowl.
- Dice the avocado into bite-sized pieces.
- Dice the cucumber and add it to the bowl with the avocado.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes and add them to the mixture.
- Thinly slice the red onion and mix it in.
- Crumble the feta cheese over the salad.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lime juice.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh herbs.
