This Easy Tomato Cucumber Salad is fresh and colorful, packed with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, creamy avocado, and tasty mozzarella. It’s a delightful side for any meal!
I love how quick it is to whip up! Just chop the veggies, toss in the cheese, and drizzle with olive oil. Perfect for those hot days when you want something light and refreshing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: These provide sweetness and juiciness. If unavailable, you can use grape tomatoes or even larger tomatoes diced into bite-sized pieces. I often mix colors for a beautiful presentation!
Cucumber: I recommend English cucumbers for their crispiness and fewer seeds. If you want a different flavor, consider using Persian cucumbers or even radishes for a crunchier twist.
Avocado: Ripe avocados are creamy and rich. If yours isn’t ripe, try using diced cooked sweet potato or even canned chickpeas if you’re looking for a different texture.
Mini Mozzarella Balls: These add a lovely creaminess. In a pinch, you can substitute with cubed regular mozzarella or feta cheese for a tangy flavor.
Basil Pesto: This gives a nice herb taste. If you prefer, homemade or store-bought pesto can work; or use chopped fresh basil with olive oil and a bit of garlic for a simple herb dressing.
How Do You Cut Veggies for a Salad Without a Mess?
Chopping veggies neatly can be a challenge, but with these tips, you’ll master it in no time:
- For cherry tomatoes, cut them in half using a serrated knife for less squishing.
- When slicing cucumbers, a sharp knife gives more control. Aim for even slices for easy eating.
- Dicing avocado requires care: cut it in half, twist to open, and scored the flesh before scooping it out with a spoon.
- For red onion, a sharp knife helps you get thin slices without tearing too much.
With practice, you’ll become quicker and enjoy the prep just as much as the eating!
Easy Tomato Cucumber Salad with Avocado and Mozzarella
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (a mix of red and yellow if possible)
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced or in half-moon shape
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil pesto (or more to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. Just chop the ingredients, toss them together with the dressing, and it’s ready to enjoy. Perfect for a quick side dish or a light meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, diced avocado, mini mozzarella balls, and thinly sliced red onion. The colors will make your salad look amazing!
2. Add the Oil:
Next, drizzle the olive oil over the salad ingredients. This will not only add flavor but also help the pesto stick better.
3. Mix with Pesto:
Now, add the fresh basil pesto to the bowl. Toss everything gently with a spoon to make sure all the ingredients are nicely coated with the pesto and olive oil. This is where the magic happens!
4. Season It Up:
Sprinkle in some salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss the salad gently again, making sure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your salad is ready! You can serve it right away to enjoy the fresh flavors or chill it in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes to make it even cooler and more refreshing. Enjoy this vibrant dish!
This salad is colorful, fresh, and full of vibrant flavors. The creamy avocado and mozzarella complement the crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes perfectly, while the basil pesto adds a fragrant, savory touch. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you can’t find mini mozzarella balls, you can substitute with cubed regular mozzarella or even feta cheese for a tangy twist. Goat cheese works well too if you enjoy a creamier texture.
What Can I Substitute for Basil Pesto?
If you don’t have basil pesto, try using a homemade mix of chopped fresh basil, olive oil, garlic, and pine nuts for a quick alternative. You can also use store-bought Italian dressing for a different flavor profile.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown after a while, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you have to store it, drizzle the avocado with lemon or lime juice to help maintain its color.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad ingredients and store them separately in the fridge for up to a day. Just mix everything together with the dressing right before serving to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant!
