Ingredients

• Vegetables:
  • 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced or diced
  • 250 grams of cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 large avocado, diced
  • 2–3 spring onions, finely chopped
  • A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
• Other Additions:
  • 70 grams of corn (canned, drained, or fresh)
• For the Dressing:
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: None

Total Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 4

Steps to Make It

1. Prepare the Vegetables
   • Begin by washing all the vegetables thoroughly under cold running water.
   • Slice the cucumbers into rounds or dice them into bite-sized pieces.
   • Halve the cherry tomatoes and finely chop the spring onions.
   • Dice the avocado, ensuring the pieces are large enough to retain their shape.
2. Combine the Ingredients
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, avocado, spring onions, parsley, and corn. Use a gentle hand when tossing to avoid breaking the avocado.
3. Make the Dressing
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, olive oil, and lemon juice until well combined. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Dress the Salad
   • Pour the honey-lemon vinaigrette over the salad. Gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly, ensuring the dressing covers the vegetables without mashing the avocado.
5. Serve Immediately
   • Transfer the salad to a serving dish. Garnish with extra parsley if desired and serve immediately for the freshest taste.

Explanation of Why This Recipe is Timeless

Salads have been a part of culinary tradition for centuries, offering a perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication. This particular salad endures because it highlights the natural flavors of fresh produce without overwhelming them with heavy dressings or elaborate preparation. The creamy richness of the avocado contrasts beautifully with the crunch of cucumbers and the juiciness of tomatoes, creating a dish that is texturally and visually appealing.

Moreover, the honey-lemon vinaigrette is a classic dressing that never goes out of style. Its balance of sweetness and acidity is universally loved and pairs well with almost any combination of vegetables. The salad’s versatility—easily adaptable to dietary needs or seasonal ingredients—ensures it remains a staple in kitchens worldwide. Its ease of preparation and the health benefits of its ingredients make it a timeless go-to for those seeking flavor, nutrition, and convenience.

Nutritional Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 7g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 150mg

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients a few hours in advance, but it’s best to add the avocado and dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh and vibrant.

2. How can I prevent the avocado from browning?
Toss the diced avocado with a bit of lemon juice before adding it to the salad. This helps slow down the oxidation process, keeping the avocado green for longer.

3. What can I add to make it more filling?
Adding grilled chicken, shrimp, hard-boiled eggs, or chickpeas can turn this salad into a heartier meal.

4. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

Tips for Making the Perfect Salad

1. Use Fresh Ingredients:
   • The quality of the salad relies on the freshness of the vegetables. Select firm cucumbers, ripe yet firm avocado, and sweet cherry tomatoes for the best results.
2. Don’t Overdress:
   • It’s better to start with less dressing and add more as needed. Too much dressing can overpower the flavors of the vegetables and make the salad soggy.
3. Chill for Extra Crispness:
   • Chill the cucumbers and tomatoes in the fridge before preparing the salad for an extra refreshing bite.
4. Customize the Herbs:
   • While parsley is used in this recipe, you can substitute it with cilantro or basil for a different flavor profile.

Storage Tips

1. Short-Term Storage:
   • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be aware that the avocado may brown slightly, but the flavor will still be good.
2. Refreshing Leftovers:
   • To revive leftovers, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Conclusion

There’s something truly special about a salad that brings together the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors like this Avocado Cucumber Tomato Salad with Honey-Lemon Vinaigrette. It’s more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients that nourish both the body and the soul. This timeless salad is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking, offering an effortless way to enjoy nature’s bounty in its purest form.

Whether served as a refreshing side dish or enjoyed as a light meal, this salad embodies the essence of freshness. It’s a dish that can be made in minutes, yet leaves a lasting impression. The sweet and tangy dressing enhances every bite, creating a perfect harmony that’s hard to resist. Make it today and let its vibrant flavors brighten your table, reminding you that sometimes, the best meals are the simplest.