Description of this recipe This Avocado Tomato Onion Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of fresh, simple ingredients. It’s a delightful combination of creamy avocado, juicy cherry tomatoes, and the sharp bite of red onion, all brought together with a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. This salad is not only incredibly flavorful but also packed with healthy fats, vitamins, and antioxidants, making it a guilt-free addition to any meal. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish to complement grilled meats, or a colorful addition to a potluck, this salad is sure to impress with its simplicity and taste.
Why you will love this recipe You will absolutely adore this Avocado Tomato Onion Salad for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy and quick to prepare, requiring minimal effort and time in the kitchen. This makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights or when you need a last-minute dish to bring to a gathering. Second, the combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible. The creamy avocado provides a luscious base, while the burst of sweet-tart cherry tomatoes and the slight pungency of red onion create a harmonious balance. The lemon-olive oil dressing adds a bright, zesty touch that elevates the entire dish.
Moreover, this salad is incredibly versatile. It can be enjoyed on its own as a light and satisfying meal, or it can be paired with a variety of other dishes, such as grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. You can also customize it to your liking by adding other ingredients, such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or feta cheese. Additionally, this salad is a nutritional powerhouse, loaded with healthy fats, vitamins, and antioxidants. Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health, while tomatoes are packed with vitamins A and C, and onions provide a good source of fiber and antioxidants.
Finally, this salad is visually appealing, with its vibrant colors and fresh appearance. It’s a dish that not only tastes great but also looks beautiful on the plate, making it a perfect choice for entertaining guests or simply adding a touch of elegance to your everyday meals. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation, combined with the incredible flavor and health benefits, make this Avocado Tomato Onion Salad a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.
Ingredients:
2 ripe avocados, sliced 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved ½ small red onion, thinly sliced 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (or lime juice) 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional) Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Preparation: Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by washing the cherry tomatoes and gently patting them dry. Halve each tomato and place them into a large mixing bowl. Peel the red onion, then slice it thinly. To reduce the onion’s sharp bite, you can soak the slices in cold water for about 10 minutes, then drain and add them to the bowl with the tomatoes.
Step 2: Slice the Avocado: Carefully cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop out the flesh. Slice the avocado into even pieces, ensuring they are not too thin to prevent them from becoming mushy when tossed. Add the avocado slices to the bowl with the tomatoes and onions.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice (or lime juice). The lemon juice adds a bright, acidic element that complements the richness of the avocado and the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Step 4: Combine and Season: Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice mixture over the avocado, tomatoes, and onions. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Be mindful of the amount of salt, as it can enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.
Step 5: Gently Toss and Serve: Gently toss all the ingredients together to ensure they are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to overmix, as the avocado can become mushy. If desired, sprinkle the salad with chopped fresh parsley for added freshness and visual appeal. Serve immediately or chill for a short time to allow the flavors to meld.
COOKING Rating: Easy
Serving Suggestions: This Avocado Tomato Onion Salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways. It makes an excellent side dish for grilled meats such as chicken, steak, or fish. The fresh, vibrant flavors of the salad provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the grilled dishes.
It also pairs well with vegetarian options like grilled tofu or halloumi cheese. For a light lunch, serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens or with a side of crusty bread. You can also add it to tacos or wraps for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition. Another great serving suggestion is to top the salad with crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese for a creamy, tangy element.
If you’re serving it at a potluck or barbecue, consider placing it in a large bowl surrounded by ice to keep it cool and fresh. For a more substantial meal, you can add cooked quinoa or chickpeas to the salad, turning it into a filling and nutritious grain bowl. Garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Tips: To prevent the avocado from browning, toss it with the lemon juice immediately after slicing. This helps to preserve its vibrant green color and fresh taste. If you’re making the salad ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to add the avocado just before serving to prevent it from becoming too soft.
For a flavor variation, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a subtle kick. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as basil, cilantro, or mint, to customize the flavor profile. If you don’t have fresh lemon juice on hand, lime juice works just as well. To enhance the sweetness of the tomatoes, you can roast them in the oven for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.
When selecting avocados, choose ones that are ripe but firm to the touch. They should yield slightly when gently squeezed. If you find the red onion too pungent, soak the slices in cold water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the salad. This helps to mellow out the flavor.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 0 minutes Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information: Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories per serving Protein: Approximately 5-7 grams per serving Sodium: Approximately 100-150 mg per serving
Conclusion The Avocado Tomato Onion Salad is more than just a simple mix of ingredients; it’s a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors and healthy eating. Its ease of preparation, combined with its versatility and nutritional benefits, makes it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your repertoire. The creamy avocado, sweet tomatoes, and sharp onion, all brought together with a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing, create a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and refreshing.
From casual lunches to elegant dinner parties, this salad effortlessly fits into any setting. Its vibrant colors and fresh appearance make it a visually appealing dish that is sure to impress your guests. Moreover, it’s a guilt-free indulgence, packed with healthy fats, vitamins, and antioxidants. So, the next time you’re looking for a quick, easy, and nutritious meal, look no further than this delightful Avocado Tomato Onion Salad. It’s a recipe that’s guaranteed to bring joy to your taste buds and nourishment to your body.
Questions and Answers about this recipe
Question 1: Can I make this salad ahead of time? Answer: While it’s best to serve this salad fresh, you can prepare the tomatoes and onions ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. However, it’s recommended to add the avocado just before serving to prevent it from browning and becoming too soft. Toss the avocado with lemon juice immediately after slicing to help preserve its color and texture.
Question 2: What can I substitute if I don’t have red onion? Answer: If you don’t have red onion on hand, you can substitute it with other types of onions, such as white onion, yellow onion, or even scallions. However, keep in mind that each type of onion will impart a slightly different flavor to the salad. White and yellow onions have a milder flavor compared to red onions, while scallions offer a more subtle, grassy taste. If you find the onion too strong, you can soak the slices in cold water for a few minutes to mellow out the flavor.
Question 3: Can I add other vegetables to this salad? Answer: Absolutely! This salad is incredibly versatile, and you can easily customize it to your liking by adding other vegetables. Some great additions include cucumbers, bell peppers (such as red, yellow, or orange), corn, or even roasted vegetables like zucchini or eggplant. Just be sure to adjust the dressing accordingly to ensure all the ingredients are well coated.
Question 4: What kind of dressing can I use if I don’t have lemon juice? Answer: If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, you can use lime juice as a substitute. Lime juice has a similar acidity and brightness, which will complement the other ingredients in the salad. You can also use a light vinaigrette or a simple olive oil and vinegar dressing. For a creamier dressing, try adding a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the olive oil and lemon juice mixture.
Question 5: How can I make this salad more filling? Answer: To make this salad more filling, you can add protein-rich ingredients such as grilled chicken, fish, tofu, or chickpeas. You can also add cooked grains like quinoa or brown rice to turn it into a hearty grain bowl. Another option is to include nuts and seeds, such as almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds, for added texture and nutrition. These additions will not only make the salad more satisfying but also provide a boost of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
