Avocado Cucumber Salad with Chili-Lime Dressing
Fresh • crunchy • creamy • zesty • naturally gluten-free
Ingredients
For the salad
- 2 large cucumbers, chopped
- 2 ripe avocados, cut into bite-size cubes
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely diced
- 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped — optional
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds — optional
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
Chili-lime dressing
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon honey or maple syrup, optional
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables:
Wash and chop the cucumbers. Cut the avocado into bite-size pieces. - Make the dressing:
Whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, chili powder, cumin, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Add honey or maple syrup if you want a slightly sweeter balance. - Combine:
Add cucumber, avocado, cilantro, red onion, and jalapeño to a large bowl. - Dress gently:
Pour the chili-lime dressing over the salad and gently toss. Be careful not to mash the avocado. - Finish:
Sprinkle with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds and a little extra chili if desired. - Serve immediately:
This salad is best served right away while the cucumber is crisp and the avocado is fresh.
🌶️ Make It More Flavorful
- Add cherry tomatoes for sweetness.
- Add feta cheese for a salty Mediterranean twist.
- Add chickpeas to make it more substantial.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Use fresh jalapeño instead of chili flakes for a sharper kick.
- Add a little extra lime juice just before serving.
🥜 Nut & Allergen Information
Naturally contains: avocado, cucumber, herbs, and the dressing ingredients.
Usually free from: gluten, eggs, dairy, and nuts.
Optional toppings: Pumpkin and sunflower seeds are not tree nuts, but packaged seeds can have cross-contact with nuts, so check the label if preparing for someone with an allergy.
If adding feta, it will contain milk/dairy.
❓ Q&A
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the cucumber, onion, herbs, and dressing ahead. Add the avocado and dressing shortly before serving for the best texture.
How do I stop the avocado from browning?
The fresh lime juice helps slow browning. Keep the salad refrigerated and covered.
Can I make it without cilantro?
Yes. Fresh parsley or mint works nicely.
Can I make it less spicy?
Absolutely. Leave out the jalapeño and red pepper flakes, then add chili gradually to taste.
Can I use lemon instead of lime?
Yes, although lime gives the salad its characteristic bright flavor.
Is this a good side dish?
Yes. It pairs especially well with grilled chicken, fish, shrimp, tacos, rice dishes, or roasted vegetables.
How long does it keep?
It’s best eaten the same day. If refrigerated, leftovers can generally be kept for about 1 day, but the avocado will gradually soften and discolor.
🍽️ Quick Serving Formula
For a simple complete meal, combine:
Avocado + cucumber + chili-lime dressing + chickpeas or grilled chicken + fresh herbs = a refreshing, filling salad with plenty of flavor. 🥑🥒🌶️
