If you’re searching for a refreshing, vibrant, and nutritious dish that comes together in no time, this Easy Cucumber Avocado Salad Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Crisp cucumber slices mingle perfectly with creamy avocado cubes and a zesty lime dressing, making it the kind of salad that brightens any meal or stands confidently on its own. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a healthy snack, this salad is bursting with fresh flavors and satisfying textures that will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s incredible how just a handful of simple, fresh ingredients can create such a delicious salad. Each element plays a crucial role: the cucumbers bring a cool, crunchy base; ripe avocados add that buttery richness; green onions offer a subtle sharpness; and the lime juice with olive oil cocktail ties it all together with brightness and a silky finish.
- 2 medium cucumbers: Thinly sliced to add a crisp, hydrating crunch that keeps the salad light and fresh.
- 2 ripe avocados: Diced into creamy, buttery chunks that provide rich texture and healthy fats.
- 3 green onions (scallions): Sliced thinly to introduce a mild onion flavor with a touch of color from the green tops.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice: Adds a zesty tang that wakes up the palate and balances the creaminess of the avocado.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Offers a smooth, fruity richness that melds the ingredients beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors—adjust to your taste preference.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat and earthiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): If you like a little kick, this is your go-to for subtle spiciness without overpowering the freshness.
How to Make Easy Cucumber Avocado Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Start by giving your cucumbers a good rinse under cold water to wash away any dirt or residue. Then, slice them as thin as possible to maximize crunch and keep the salad light and airy. Thin slices also allow the dressing to coat every bite beautifully.
Step 2: Cube the Avocados
Cut your ripe avocados in half, carefully remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh with a spoon. Dice the avocado into bite-sized cubes to ensure that you get creamy bursts throughout the salad. Choosing perfectly ripe avocados makes all the difference here—soft but firm.
Step 3: Slice the Green Onions
Trim and then slice the green onions thinly, including both the white and green parts for a mild yet vibrant onion flavor. These add a fresh, subtle bite that layers nicely with the other ingredients without overwhelming the palate.
Step 4: Combine Main Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine your cucumber slices, avocado cubes, and green onions. The goal is to mix without mashing the avocado, preserving the creamy texture you love.
Step 5: Make the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until fully blended. This simple dressing enhances every ingredient with its bright, silky flavor profile.
Step 6: Toss the Salad
Pour the dressing over the cucumber, avocado, and green onion mixture. Using a gentle folding motion, toss the salad just enough to coat the ingredients evenly with the dressing, taking care to keep the avocado pieces intact for that luscious creaminess.
Step 7: Add a Touch of Heat (Optional)
If you’re a fan of spicy flavors, sprinkle the red pepper flakes on top as a finishing touch. This optional addition brings a subtle warmth that contrasts beautifully with the coolness of the cucumber and richness of the avocado.
Step 8: Serve Immediately
This salad is best enjoyed right away when the avocado is fresh and the cucumbers retain their satisfying crunch. Waiting too long can cause the avocado to brown and the cucumbers to lose their snap, so dig in and savor every bite!
How to Serve Easy Cucumber Avocado Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this salad even further, consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or chopped mint leaves for an herbal brightness, or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for added crunch. A few cherry tomato halves can also add a pop of vibrant color and juicy sweetness that complements the flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp, creating a light and nutritious meal. It also makes a fantastic side to spicy Mexican dishes or alongside a savory quinoa bowl for a complete and satisfying plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a beautiful presentation, serve it in clear glass bowls to showcase the colorful layers or arrange it neatly on a large platter with avocado halves fanned out on the side. You can even stuff the salad into halved pita pockets or wrap it in lettuce leaves for a fun, hand-held option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To help prevent the avocado from browning, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salad before sealing the container. Try to enjoy within a day or two for the freshest taste and texture.
Freezing
Because of the delicate texture of cucumbers and avocados, freezing this salad is not recommended. Freezing will turn the veggies mushy and less appetizing once thawed, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating
This salad is designed to be served cold or at room temperature and does not require reheating. If you prefer, you can let it sit out for a few minutes to come to room temperature before serving to let the flavors marry.
FAQs
Can I use English cucumbers instead of regular cucumbers?
Absolutely! English cucumbers work wonderfully in this Easy Cucumber Avocado Salad Recipe because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, which makes for an even milder and crisper bite.
How do I keep the avocado from turning brown?
Fresh lime juice in the dressing helps slow down browning, but you can also press plastic wrap onto the salad’s surface or store it in an airtight container to minimize exposure to air.
Can I add other vegetables or fruits to this salad?
Yes! Feel free to experiment by adding cherry tomatoes, radishes, or even mango chunks for a sweet twist. Just keep in mind that additional ingredients will slightly alter the balance of flavors.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
This salad is best made fresh because avocado and cucumber textures don’t lend themselves well to long storage. However, you can prep the ingredients separately and combine just before eating.
Can I substitute lime juice with lemon juice?
Sure thing! Lemon juice will also provide that bright acidity and fresh citrus flavor, though lime juice is traditionally preferred for its slightly sweeter and more aromatic notes.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about a salad that is easy to make yet packed with flavor and texture, and this Easy Cucumber Avocado Salad Recipe does just that with grace. It feels fresh and light, but also nourishing and indulgent thanks to the creamy avocado. Whether you’re whipping this up for a quick lunch or serving it at a dinner party, it’s bound to become a beloved dish in your repertoire. Give it a try and enjoy the bright, crisp, and creamy magic all in one bowl!
Print
Easy Cucumber Avocado Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing and simple cucumber avocado salad that comes together in just 10 minutes. This easy-to-make salad features thinly sliced cucumbers, creamy diced avocados, and crisp green onions, all tossed in a tangy lime and olive oil dressing with a hint of spice from optional red pepper flakes. Perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 3 green onions (scallions), sliced (both white and green parts)
Dressing
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions
- Prepare Cucumbers: Start by washing your cucumbers thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt. Then, slice them thinly to create crisp, bite-sized pieces for the salad.
- Prepare Avocados: Slice the ripe avocados in half, carefully remove the pit, scoop out the flesh with a spoon, and dice into bite-sized cubes to add creamy texture.
- Slice Green Onions: Thinly slice the green onions, using both the white and green parts, to add a mild onion flavor and crunch.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers, diced avocados, and sliced green onions.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lime juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well blended to create a zesty dressing.
- Toss Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the combined salad ingredients, gently tossing them together to ensure even coating without mashing the avocado.
- Add Heat (Optional): Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the salad if you prefer a bit of heat to complement the fresh flavors.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately for the best flavor and texture, enjoying the crisp, creamy, and tangy combination.
Notes
- For best results, use ripe but firm avocados to avoid mushiness.
- You can adjust the amount of salt and lime juice to your taste preference.
- If preparing in advance, keep the avocado separate and add it just before serving to prevent browning.
- Optional red pepper flakes add heat, but can be omitted for a milder salad.
- This salad is best served fresh and not stored for long periods as the avocado can oxidize and discolor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
