Imagine a refreshing salad that's not just a side dish, but a vibrant explosion of flavors and textures that will transform your entire meal experience! This Arugula Avocado Tomato and Cucumber Salad is a game-changing recipe that combines the peppery kick of arugula, the creamy richness of avocado, and the crisp freshness of seasonal vegetables. In just 10 minutes, you'll create a stunning dish that looks like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant, but can be easily prepared in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups arugula
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash all fresh produce thoroughly under cool running water. Pat dry the arugula, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber with clean paper towels.
- Prepare the vegetables by dicing the avocado into small, even cubes. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half. Cut the cucumber into thin, uniform slices.
- In a large mixing bowl, gently place the fresh arugula as the base of the salad. Spread the leaves evenly across the bottom of the bowl.
- Carefully add the diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, and cucumber slices on top of the arugula, distributing them evenly.
- In a small separate bowl, whisk together olive oil and fresh lemon juice to create a light vinaigrette dressing.
- Season the vinaigrette with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad just before serving, ensuring a light and even coating.
- Gently toss the salad to mix ingredients and distribute the dressing without bruising the delicate arugula leaves.
- Serve immediately at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Tips
- Always use the freshest ingredients possible - the quality of your produce makes a massive difference in the final taste.
- Cut vegetables just before serving to prevent wilting and maintain maximum crispness.
- For the most vibrant flavor, use extra virgin olive oil and fresh-squeezed lemon juice.
- Don't overdress the salad - a light coating is key to preserving the delicate texture of the arugula.
- If you want to make this salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to prevent soggy greens.
- For added protein, consider topping with grilled chicken, shrimp, or crumbled feta cheese.
- Choose ripe but firm avocados to ensure the perfect creamy texture without mushiness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
