Name: Easy Avocado Tomato Onion Salad
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 2 cups chopped tomatoes (any kind), about ½-inch pieces; 2 ripe avocados, cubed; ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced; ¼ cup minced fresh cilantro or flat-leaf parsley; Juice of 1 lime; 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil; ½ tsp red pepper flakes; Salt and black pepper, to taste

Looking for a fresh and vibrant dish that bursts with flavor and can be whipped up in a matter of minutes? Say hello to the Easy Avocado Tomato Onion Salad! This delightful salad combines creamy avocados with juicy tomatoes and crunchy onions, all brought together with a zesty lime dressing that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a casual dinner, or just looking for a healthy snack, this salad is the perfect addition to your table.

This recipe not only highlights the natural flavors of its ingredients but also brings health benefits to the forefront. Avocados are rich in healthy fats, tomatoes are packed with vitamins, and onions add a satisfying crunch. Plus, with the simplicity of its preparation, you can enjoy this salad as a part of your meal or as a stand-alone dish at any time of the day. In just 5 minutes, you’ll have a colorful bowl of goodness that nurtures your body and delights your taste buds!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Avocado Tomato Onion Salad

This Easy Avocado Tomato Onion Salad is perfect for any occasion! Here’s why:

Quick and easy to make — ready in just 5 minutes!
Perfectly balanced flavors with creamy, tangy, and crunchy elements.
Loaded with nutrients and healthy fats for a guilt-free indulgence.
Versatile recipe that allows for endless customization with optional add-ins.
Ideal for meal prep or as a vibrant side dish.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into preparing this delicious avocado tomato onion salad, it’s essential to set up your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by ensuring your workspace is clean and organized, which makes the prep work more efficient and enjoyable. You will need a large mixing bowl to combine all your ingredients, a cutting board, and a sharp knife for chopping the vegetables and herbs. A measuring cup and spoons will come in handy for accurate measurements of ingredients like olive oil and lime juice.

To get the best flavor from your salad, have fresh ingredients on hand. Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly under gentle pressure for that creamy texture, and select tomatoes that are vibrant and firm. Don’t forget to wash and chop the herbs, whether you prefer cilantro or parsley. With everything set, you can now enjoy the preparation process, knowing that a fresh and healthy salad awaits you.

Ingredients

2 cups chopped tomatoes (any kind), about ½-inch pieces
2 ripe avocados, cubed
¼ small red onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup minced fresh cilantro or flat-leaf parsley
Juice of 1 lime
2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
½ tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Combine Tomatoes & Onion

Start by placing your chopped tomatoes and thinly sliced red onion into a large mixing bowl. This base will set the flavor for your salad, combining the sweetness of the tomatoes with the sharpness of the onions. Mix them together gently to ensure an even distribution without mashing the tomatoes.

Step 2: Add Avocados

Next, gently fold in the cubed avocados. The key to maintaining the integrity of the avocados is to be gentle with your mixing. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to avoid breaking them down too much. You want to keep those lovely, creamy chunks intact to ensure a delightful texture.

Step 3: Herbs & Dressing

Now it’s time to add your fresh herbs! Sprinkle in the minced cilantro or parsley, depending on your preference. Then, drizzle the salad with juice from one lime and a bit of extra virgin olive oil. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also provide a refreshing quality to the salad. The citrus from the lime will brighten up the salad, making it even more appealing.

Step 4: Season

Don’t forget to season your salad! Lightly sprinkle red pepper flakes for a hint of spice, along with salt and black pepper to taste. Toss the salad gently one more time to ensure the seasoning evenly coats all your ingredients for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Serve

Your Easy Avocado Tomato Onion Salad is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it immediately for the best experience or refrigerate for up to two hours if you want to prepare it ahead of time. This salad can be a wonderful accompaniment to grilled meats, tacos, or served on its own for a healthy lunch.

Variations

Protein: Add canned chickpeas, black beans, or diced grilled chicken for a protein boost.
Vegetables: Include diced cucumber for an added crunch or bell peppers for a splash of color and sweetness.
Spices: Experiment with spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Notes

Use ripe avocados for the creamiest texture; they should be slightly soft to the touch.
Feel free to adjust the lime juice according to your taste; if you love tang, add more.
Be cautious when mixing; a gentle toss prevents tomatoes and avocados from being mushy.
This salad can be made ahead of time but is best fresh to enjoy the textures.
Store leftovers in an airtight container and finish within a day for optimal freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
Serve as a side dish with tacos or burritos for a fresh contrast.

Tips

For the best flavor, always use fresh herbs.
Consider adding a dash of vinegar for an extra layer of tanginess.
If you want more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
Substitute olive oil with avocado oil for a different flavor that complements the avocados.
Chill the salad before serving for a refreshing taste, especially in warm weather.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 70mg

FAQs

Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this salad a couple of hours in advance. However, it is best enjoyed fresh to prevent the avocados from browning and to maintain the crispness of the vegetables.

What can I add to this salad for extra protein?

For added protein, consider mixing in canned chickpeas, black beans, or diced grilled chicken, all of which pair wonderfully with the existing flavors.

Can I use different herbs for this salad?

Absolutely! While fresh cilantro and parsley are popular choices, you could also incorporate fresh basil for a unique twist or even mint for a refreshing contrast.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ideally, enjoy within a day for the best quality, as avocados can brown when exposed to air.

Conclusion

In summary, the Easy Avocado Tomato Onion Salad is a delightful addition to any meal, embracing freshness, nutrition, and mouthwatering flavor in every bite. Prepare it in no time and enjoy the wonderful textures and colors this salad offers. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your variations and make it your own! We invite you to leave your thoughts or variations in the comments below. Happy cooking and enjoy your vibrant salad experience!