Heart Healthy Avocado Salad

This heart healthy avocado salad is the perfect blend of flavors. Featuring ripe avocados, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crunchy cucumber, this simple salad is as refreshing as it is nutritious. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up this colorful dish in just 10 minutes!

Avocado salad is a versatile recipe that works as a light lunch, a side dish for your favorite meals, or even a potluck crowd-pleaser. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and full of heart-healthy fats, making it a nourishing choice.

The magic of this salad lies in its simplicity. The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the crunch of fresh cucumbers and the sweet juiciness of cherry tomatoes. A touch of lemon juice and olive oil brings everything together, while the thinly sliced red onions add a subtle bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick side dish, this Avocado Salad is guaranteed to impress.

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Ingredients and Substitutions

Here’s what you’ll need to make this vibrant salad, along with a few ideas for substitutions:

• Avocados: Use ripe avocados for the best creamy texture.
• Cherry tomatoes: These small, sweet tomatoes add a burst of flavor. Grape tomatoes or diced heirloom tomatoes work just as well.
• English cucumber: Known for their thin skin and minimal seeds, English cucumbers are ideal for this salad. You can also use Persian cucumbers or regular cucumbers (just peel them for a smoother texture).
• Red onion: Thinly sliced red onions add a nice sharpness to the dish. If you prefer a milder flavor, soak the slices in cold water for 5 minutes before adding them to the salad.
• Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors and prevents the avocado from browning. Lime juice is a great alternative if you prefer a zestier kick.
• Olive oil: Adds a silky finish and enhances the flavors. For a unique twist, try avocado oil instead.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, but you can also sprinkle in some garlic powder or a pinch of chili flakes for extra flavor.

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How to Make Avocado Salad

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of this recipe is the balance of flavors and textures. The creamy avocado provides healthy fats and richness, while the cucumber and cherry tomatoes add a crisp, refreshing contrast. The lemon juice acts as a natural flavor enhancer, tying the ingredients together with a bright finish.

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How to Store Avocado Salad

While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To prevent the avocado from browning, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salad before sealing it in an airtight container.

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Recipe Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some fun ways to switch up your Avocado Salad:

• Mediterranean-Inspired Salad: Add crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of oregano for a Mediterranean twist.
• Spicy Avocado Salad: Toss in diced jalapeño or a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Tropical Avocado Salad: Add diced mango or pineapple and swap the lemon juice for lime for a tropical flair.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Not only is this salad incredibly easy to make, but it’s also packed with health benefits. Avocados are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and loaded with fiber, making this salad a great choice for anyone looking to eat healthier, especially people with high cholesterol. Plus, the fresh veggies and lemon juice add an extra boost of vitamins and antioxidants.

Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a quick snack, this avocado salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Try it today and savor the fresh, vibrant flavors!