Creamy Avocado Salad Recipe: Fresh, Flavorful, and Healthy
Salads often get a bad reputation for being boring, but when you bring creamy avocado into the mix, everything changes. Avocados are not only rich and buttery in texture, but they also pair beautifully with crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and zesty dressings. A creamy avocado salad is the perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition—it feels hearty enough to be satisfying while still staying light and refreshing.
Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a vibrant side dish, or a crowd-pleasing recipe for gatherings, creamy avocado salad is always a winner. What makes it even better is how versatile it can be. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create a dish that’s naturally gluten-free, nutrient-dense, and customizable to your taste. From the creaminess of the avocado to the crunch of cucumbers and the brightness of lemon or lime juice, every bite is packed with flavor.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients with approximate calorie counts (per serving):
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Avocados (ripe) | 2 medium | 480 |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup (halved) | 30 |
| Cucumber | 1 medium | 45 |
| Red onion | ¼ cup (sliced) | 15 |
| Fresh cilantro (optional) | 2 tbsp | 1 |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | 120 |
| Lemon or lime juice | 2 tbsp | 8 |
| Salt | ½ tsp | 0 |
| Black pepper | ¼ tsp | 1 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prep the veggies: Wash and chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Slice avocados into chunks just before mixing to prevent browning.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add avocados, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and cilantro (if using).
- Make the dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon or lime juice, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Toss gently: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently mix to coat without mashing the avocado.
- Serve immediately: Garnish with extra herbs or a sprinkle of chili flakes if desired.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to turn this salad into a complete meal.
- Cheese lovers: Sprinkle feta or cotija cheese on top for a creamy, tangy kick.
- Extra crunch: Toss in pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or toasted nuts.
- Spice it up: Add jalapeños, chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery twist.
- Leafy base: Serve over mixed greens, arugula, or spinach for added volume and nutrition.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~175 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 7g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside grilled meats or fish for a refreshing side dish.
- Enjoy as a light lunch with whole-grain crackers or pita bread.
- Pair with tacos, burrito bowls, or quesadillas for a Mexican-inspired spread.
- Scoop with tortilla chips and enjoy as a chunky, healthy dip.
Creamy Avocado Salad Recipe: Fresh, Flavorful, and Healthy
Course: Uncategorized4
servings1
hour40
minutes10
minutes175
kcalIngredients
2 ripe avocados, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 medium cucumber, chopped
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
2 tbsp fresh cilantro (optional)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon or lime juice
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Directions
- Prep the vegetables: Chop tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and cilantro. Dice avocados last to keep them fresh.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon or lime juice, salt, and black pepper.
- Combine ingredients: Add all vegetables and avocados to a large bowl.
- Toss gently: Pour dressing over and mix lightly so the avocados stay chunky.
- Serve immediately: Garnish with extra herbs or chili flakes if desired.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Best served fresh: Since avocados brown quickly, enjoy the salad right after preparing it. If making ahead, chop and prepare all other ingredients first, then add avocado and dressing just before serving.
Keep avocados green: To slow down browning, squeeze a little extra lemon or lime juice over the diced avocados before mixing.
FAQs
1: Can I make creamy avocado salad ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh because avocado browns quickly. If you need to prep ahead, chop the veggies first and add the avocado and dressing just before serving.
2: How do I keep avocados from turning brown in the salad?
Toss the avocado chunks in lemon or lime juice before mixing them into the salad. The citrus slows down oxidation and keeps the salad looking fresh.
3: Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas are excellent additions that make this salad more filling.
4: What kind of dressing works best with avocado salad?
A light vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon or lime juice, and simple seasonings works perfectly. Creamy dressings like yogurt or ranch can also be used if you prefer.
5: Is creamy avocado salad healthy?
Absolutely. Avocados provide healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins, while the fresh vegetables add hydration, antioxidants, and nutrients.
Conclusion
A creamy avocado salad is proof that healthy food doesn’t have to be bland or complicated. With ripe avocados, crisp veggies, and a simple zesty dressing, you’ll have a dish that’s fresh, nourishing, and full of flavor. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a salad that stands out on its own or complements a variety of meals. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again—it’s that satisfying.
