The Easy Cucumber Avocado Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that combines crisp cucumbers with creamy avocado, creating a delightful contrast in textures. This salad is not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with healthy fats, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch or a side dish to complement any meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 cucumber, peeled
• 1/2 avocado
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
• 1 garlic clove
• 1/2 teaspoon vinegar
• 1 teaspoon tamari sauce (or soy sauce)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• Sea salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Peel the cucumber and slice it thinly.
2. Peel and pit the avocado, then cut it into cubes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, vinegar, tamari sauce, lemon juice, olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
4. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumber and avocado cubes.
5. Pour the dressing over the cucumber and avocado mixture, tossing gently to coat evenly.
6. Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.

Nutritional Facts

Per serving (approximately 1/2 of the recipe):

• Calories: ~180 kcal
• Total Fat: ~15g
  • Saturated Fat: ~2g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: ~11g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: ~2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: ~300mg
• Total Carbohydrates: ~10g
  • Dietary Fiber: ~5g
  • Sugars: ~3g
• Protein: ~4g

Health Benefits of Cucumber Avocado Salad

This salad is not just about great flavor—it also offers a range of health benefits. The main ingredients, cucumber and avocado, are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making this salad a nutrient powerhouse.

Cucumbers are low in calories and rich in water, making them excellent for hydration. They contain vitamin K, which plays an essential role in bone health by promoting calcium absorption. Cucumbers also have antioxidants like beta-carotene and flavonoids, which help protect the body from free radical damage. Additionally, cucumbers are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce bloating and promote a healthy digestive system.

Avocados, on the other hand, are a nutrient-dense fruit known for their healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats. These fats are heart-healthy and can help reduce bad cholesterol levels. Avocados are also a great source of potassium, which is essential for maintaining proper blood pressure levels and supporting muscle function. They are rich in fiber, which aids digestion and promotes gut health. Furthermore, avocados contain a variety of vitamins, including vitamins C, E, K, and B-6, all of which support skin health, immune function, and overall well-being.

Together, these ingredients make the Easy Cucumber Avocado Salad not only delicious but also a great addition to a balanced diet, contributing to overall health and wellness.

Versatility of the Easy Cucumber Avocado Salad

One of the reasons this salad has gained popularity is its versatility. You can easily customize it based on your preferences, dietary restrictions, or what ingredients you have on hand. Whether you want to make it a heartier meal or keep it light and refreshing, there are countless ways to adjust this salad to suit your needs.

For those looking to make the salad more substantial, you can add proteins such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. These additions will not only enhance the flavor but also make the salad a more complete meal. For a Mediterranean twist, you can add feta cheese, Kalamata olives, or sun-dried tomatoes to introduce more bold flavors. If you’re looking to make the salad spicier, try adding jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes for a kick.

Vegetarians and vegans will also find this salad incredibly adaptable. By omitting cheese and using a plant-based dressing, it becomes a fully vegan dish. You can even experiment with different types of oils and vinegars to create new variations of the dressing, such as substituting olive oil for avocado oil or using balsamic vinegar in place of the regular vinegar.

Additionally, this salad can easily be made into a grain bowl by adding cooked quinoa, farro, or couscous. These grains add extra fiber and protein, making the salad more filling and balanced. If you enjoy crunch, adding toasted nuts or seeds such as pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds can bring an extra layer of texture to the dish.

Easy Cucumber Avocado Salad as a Meal Prep Option

Another reason why the Easy Cucumber Avocado Salad is so popular is its meal prep potential. It can be made in advance, allowing you to enjoy a quick, nutritious meal throughout the week. The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, though it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve it to prevent the ingredients from getting soggy.

To make this salad even more meal prep-friendly, try portioning it into individual containers, adding the dressing on the side. This way, you can easily grab a pre-made serving, add the dressing when you’re ready, and enjoy a fresh, healthy meal without much effort. If you’re looking to make a large batch to last you throughout the week, consider increasing the quantities and storing the salad in an airtight container. This will save you time and ensure that you always have a nutritious meal ready when hunger strikes.

Serving Suggestions for the Easy Cucumber Avocado Salad

The Easy Cucumber Avocado Salad is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. It works well as a side dish for a variety of main courses, from grilled meats to vegetarian options. It pairs wonderfully with dishes like grilled chicken, seared tuna, or roasted salmon, offering a cool, refreshing contrast to the warm and savory main courses.

For those following a plant-based diet, this salad can serve as a satisfying standalone dish. You can complement it with a hearty grain-based side, like quinoa or brown rice, to create a filling meal. The salad can also be served as a starter or appetizer before a larger meal, providing a light and healthy opening that won’t leave you feeling too full before the main course.

This salad also makes an excellent picnic dish or potluck contribution. Its bright, fresh flavors and simple preparation make it a crowd-pleaser that appeals to many different tastes. If you’re looking to elevate the presentation, serve the salad in a bowl garnished with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sesame seeds, which will add both texture and visual appeal.

Why Choose the Easy Cucumber Avocado Salad?

There are plenty of reasons why the Easy Cucumber Avocado Salad stands out. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and preparation time. This makes it a great choice for both beginners and experienced home cooks who want to prepare a healthy meal without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. Its simplicity also makes it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights when you need something quick and nutritious.

Conclusion

The Easy Cucumber Avocado Salad is the perfect blend of simplicity, taste, and nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish, a healthy lunch, or a refreshing addition to a larger meal, this salad ticks all the boxes. With its crisp cucumbers, creamy avocado, and flavorful dressing, it’s a dish that’s both satisfying and packed with health benefits.