This fresh and colourful salad combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and a bright lemon-herb dressing. It’s the perfect healthy side dish for barbecues, picnics, or light lunches.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6

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Ingredients

For the Salad

• 2 English cucumbers, diced
• 2 cups (300 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• ½ small red onion, finely diced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

For the Lemon Herb Dressing

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

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Equipment

• Large salad bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables

• Dice the cucumbers.
• Halve the cherry tomatoes.
• Dice the avocados into bite-sized cubes.
• Finely dice the red onion.
• Chop the parsley and cilantro.

2. Make the Dressing

Whisk together:

• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Red wine vinegar
• Dijon mustard
• Garlic
• Oregano
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (if using)

3. Assemble the Salad

• Add the cucumbers, tomatoes, avocado, onion, parsley, and cilantro to a large bowl.
• Pour the dressing over the salad.
• Toss gently until everything is evenly coated, being careful not to mash the avocado.

4. Serve

Serve immediately, or chill for 10–15 minutes before serving for even better flavour.

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Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs perfectly with:

• Grilled chicken
• Grilled shrimp
• Salmon
• Steak
• Lamb chops
• Mediterranean kebabs
• Falafel
• Crusty bread or pita

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Storage

Refrigerator: Best enjoyed fresh. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 day.

Tip: To prevent browning, add the avocado just before serving or toss it with a little extra lemon juice.

Not suitable for freezing.

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Tips for Success

• Use firm but ripe avocados so they hold their shape.
• English or Persian cucumbers stay crisp and have fewer seeds.
• Fresh lemon juice gives the dressing the brightest flavour.
• Chill the salad for 10–15 minutes to let the flavours blend.
• Toss gently to keep the avocado cubes intact.

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Variations

• Add crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
• Mix in sliced Kalamata olives.
• Add diced bell peppers for extra crunch.
• Sprinkle with toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
• Replace lemon juice with lime juice for a different citrus flavour.
• Add chickpeas for extra protein and fibre.

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Nutrition (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 195
• Protein: 3 g
• Carbohydrates: 11 g
• Fat: 17 g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
• Fibre: 6 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 220 mg

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Nut Information

Naturally Nut-Free Ingredients

• Cucumbers
• Cherry tomatoes
• Avocados
• Red onion
• Parsley
• Cilantro
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Red wine vinegar
• Dijon mustard
• Garlic
• Oregano
• Salt and pepper

Contains

• No major allergens in the base recipe.

Does NOT Contain

• Peanuts
• Tree nuts
• Milk
• Eggs
• Wheat
• Soy (check Dijon mustard if needed)
• Fish
• Shellfish
• Sesame

Cross-Contamination Note:
If preparing this salad for someone with a severe nut allergy, check packaged ingredients such as Dijon mustard and seasonings to ensure they are produced in a nut-free facility.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the vegetables and dressing ahead of time, but add the avocado and toss with the dressing just before serving.

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Toss the avocado with a little lemon juice and add it at the last minute for the freshest appearance.

Can I use regular tomatoes?

Absolutely. Roma, vine-ripened, or heirloom tomatoes all work well—just chop them into bite-sized pieces.

Is this salad vegan?

Yes. The base recipe is naturally vegan. Just ensure your Dijon mustard is vegan if needed.

Can I add cheese?

Yes. Feta, fresh mozzarella, or goat cheese all pair beautifully with these ingredients.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes. All ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Always check packaged ingredients like Dijon mustard if serving someone with celiac disease.

What proteins pair well with this salad?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, tuna, steak, or chickpeas make excellent additions for a more filling meal.