This refreshing cilantro lime cucumber salad is a perfect side dish for any meal! Crisp cucumbers, creamy avocado, and zesty lime come together for a tasty treat.
You can whip it up in minutes, and it adds a bright pop of color to your plate. I love digging into this salad on a hot day—it’s like sunshine in a bowl! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are the base of this salad. I prefer English cucumbers for their crisp texture and fewer seeds. You can also use Persian cucumbers if you want a smaller size or regular cucumbers if that’s what you have.
Avocado: A ripe avocado gives creaminess to the dish. If you’re out of avocado, try using a bit of crumbled feta cheese for a different flavor, or skip it entirely for a lighter version.
Red Onion: This adds a nice sharpness. If red onions are too pungent for you, try using green onions or even shallots for a milder taste.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a bright flavor. If you’re not a fan, or if you have allergies, parsley or even basil can make a great substitute!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is key for zing! You can swap it for lemon juice in a pinch, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
How Do You Toss a Salad Without Mashing the Avocado?
Tossing a salad with avocado requires a gentle touch to keep the pieces intact. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by placing all solid ingredients in a large bowl for plenty of space to mix.
- When adding the dressing, drizzle it evenly over the salad instead of dumping it all at once.
- Use two large spoons to lift and turn the ingredients gently, rather than stirring aggressively.
- Take your time—this helps maintain the avocado’s shape and gives a lovely visual appeal.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Cucumber Salad with Avocado
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 limes, juiced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad is quick and easy! It will take about 10 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, you can have a refreshing dish ready to serve in just around 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing your cucumbers thoroughly. Then, using a sharp knife, slice them thinly. Place the sliced cucumbers in a large salad bowl to get started!
2. Add the Avocado:
Now, take your ripe avocado and carefully dice it into small cubes. Gently add the diced avocado to the bowl with the cucumbers, being careful to keep the pieces intact.
3. Slice the Onion:
Next, grab your red onion. Thinly slice it and add those slices to the bowl as well. The onion adds a nice crunch and a bit of sharpness to the salad!
4. Chop the Cilantro:
Finely chop your fresh cilantro and sprinkle it over the cucumber, avocado, and onion mixture. This will give the salad a refreshing flavor!
5. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the juice of the two limes with the olive oil. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. Mix it well to blend all the flavors together.
6. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over your salad ingredients in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together, being careful not to mash the avocado. You want all the delicious flavors to combine evenly!
7. Adjust the Seasoning:
Once mixed, taste your salad. If it needs a little extra flavor, feel free to add more salt or a squeeze of lime juice to suit your taste.
8. Chill and Serve:
Now it’s time to let the flavors meld! Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. This will make it extra refreshing.
9. Enjoy:
Once chilled, give it one last gentle toss, serve it up in bowls, and enjoy your tasty, refreshing Cilantro Lime Cucumber Salad with Avocado!
Can I Use Different Types of Onions?
Absolutely! If you find red onions too strong, you can use green onions for a milder flavor, or shallots for a touch of sweetness. Just be sure to slice them thinly so they blend in nicely.
How Can I Keep the Avocado from Browning?
To prevent your avocado from browning, make sure you add it to the salad close to serving time. You can also sprinkle a bit of lime juice over the diced avocado before adding it to the salad, as the acidity helps slow down oxidation.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even corn would add great flavor and texture. Just remember to keep the pieces small so they mix well with the other ingredients.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Try to consume it within 1-2 days for the best quality, but be aware that the avocado may brown over time.
