This bright and colorful salad is a refreshing mix of juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, creamy avocado, and soft mozzarella. It’s perfect for sunny days or anytime you need a quick, tasty side!
Making it is a breeze—just chop, toss, and enjoy! I love to eat it with grilled chicken or on its own while lounging at home. Who knew being healthy could be so delicious? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems add sweetness and color. If you can’t find them, try using grape tomatoes or regular tomatoes cut into chunks. I often mix colors for a more vibrant look!
Cucumber: English or Persian cucumbers are fantastic here, but you can also use regular cucumbers. If you prefer a crunchier texture, you can leave the skin on. I love a bit of crunch in my salads!
Avocado: Ripe avocado provides creaminess. If they’re unavailable, consider using diced ripe mango for a twist. Just be sure your avocado is ripe for easy dicing!
Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella balls are ideal. If you’re in a pinch, cubed mozzarella cheese or even feta can work. Keep in mind, feta will change the flavor profile slightly with its tanginess!
Red Onion: This adds a nice sharp bite. For a milder flavor, you can substitute green onions or chives. I sometimes soak the red onion in cold water for a few minutes to lessen its sharpness.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Ingredients Stay Fresh?
Keeping your salad crisp and fresh is all about the timing and preparation. First, wash and cut your produce right before serving. If you want to prep ahead, keep your avocado separate to avoid browning. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- Combine ingredients just before serving.
- Store dressing on the side until ready to serve to keep everything crunchy.
- If using avocado, squeeze some lemon juice on it to maintain its color.
Easy Tomato Cucumber Salad With Avocado & Mozzarella
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red and yellow if available)
- 1 cup cucumber, chopped (preferably English cucumber or Persian cucumber)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved or diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad will take about 10-15 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and healthy option for lunch or dinner, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the rest of your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Fresh Ingredients:
In a large bowl, start by adding the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped cucumber, diced avocado, chopped red onion, and mozzarella pieces. This colorful mix is not only pleasing to the eye but also loaded with nutrients!
2. Drizzle the Dressing:
Next, drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice (or vinegar) over the salad ingredients. This will help to bring all those lovely flavors together in a delicious dressing.
3. Season the Salad:
Sprinkle in the dried oregano or Italian seasoning, followed by a pinch of salt and a few cracks of freshly ground black pepper. These seasonings will elevate the taste of your salad!
4. Toss Gently:
Using a large spoon, gently toss everything together. Be careful not to mash the avocado or mozzarella—it’s all about keeping those textures nice and vibrant!
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might want a little more salt or pepper! Trust your taste buds!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors, or if you need to prep ahead, refrigerate for up to 1 hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Enjoy your simple, colorful, and creamy salad as a delightful side or light meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have fresh mozzarella on hand, you can use cubed mozzarella cheese or even feta for a tangier taste. Just keep in mind that feta will alter the flavor profile a bit!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown, so it’s best to eat it fresh! You can also store the dressing separately to keep everything fresh and crisp.
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time but it’s best to combine them just before serving. If you need to prepare earlier, chop your veggies and avocado and store them separately, then mix when you’re ready to enjoy!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
This salad is super versatile! Feel free to toss in other veggies like bell peppers, radishes, or even corn for added crunch and flavor. Just be sure to keep the ratios similar so the salad remains balanced!
