This Avocado & Tomato Salad is fresh, vibrant, and naturally nourishing. With juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and a light lemon-olive oil dressing, it makes a perfect quick side dish or healthy snack you can prepare in minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just a few minutes with no cooking required
- Uses simple, fresh, whole ingredients
- Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and keto-friendly
- Perfect as a side dish, light lunch, or topping for protein
- Rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and antioxidants
- Easily customizable with herbs and add-ins
- Crisp, bright, and refreshing flavor profile
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados, cubed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or lime juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, optional
Directions
1. Combine the Main Ingredients
Place the cubed avocados, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion into a medium mixing bowl.
2. Add the Dressing
Drizzle the olive oil and lemon (or lime) juice evenly over the salad.
3. Season to Taste
Sprinkle salt and black pepper over the ingredients.
4. Toss Gently
Using a soft spatula or spoon, gently toss the salad to combine without smashing the avocado pieces.
5. Serve Fresh
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Tips for Best Results
- Use ripe but firm avocados so they hold their shape.
- Add lemon or lime juice right before tossing to prevent browning.
- Slice red onion very thinly to avoid overpowering the salad.
- Chill ingredients beforehand for a refreshing, crisp result.
- Drizzle a bit more olive oil if serving as a standalone lunch.
Variations & Substitutions
- Add fresh cucumbers for extra crunch.
- Replace parsley with cilantro or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Add crumbled feta or fresh mozzarella for a Mediterranean touch.
- Mix in grilled chicken or shrimp to turn it into a full meal.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for light heat.
Serving Suggestions
- Perfect as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or steak.
- Serve alongside tacos, burrito bowls, or fajita platters.
- Spoon over toast for a quick, elevated avocado toast variation.
- Pair with quinoa or rice bowls for added nutrients and fiber.
Storage & Reheating
- Best served immediately due to avocado browning.
- If storing, cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 hours.
- Add extra lemon or lime juice to help slow browning.
- Do not freeze or reheat this salad.
FAQ
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It’s best made fresh, but you can prepare the tomatoes and onions ahead and add avocado right before serving.
2. How can I prevent the avocado from browning?
Coat it with lemon or lime juice and store airtight for a short period.
3. Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Yes. Dice them into bite-size pieces and remove excess liquid if they’re very juicy.
4. Is this recipe diabetic-friendly?
Yes. It’s low-carb, nutrient-dense, and contains healthy fats that support blood sugar stability.