Cucumber Avocado Broccoli Salad is a vibrant dish that effortlessly combines the fresh crunch of cucumbers, the creamy richness of avocados, and the earthy bite of broccoli. This salad has become a staple in many households, cherished for its simplicity and the delightful harmony of flavors it offers. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side for a summer picnic or a nutritious main dish, Cucumber Avocado Broccoli Salad ticks all the boxes. The beauty of this salad lies not just in its taste but in its adaptability; it can easily accompany a grilled chicken dish or serve as a light, standalone meal. People love this salad not just for its fresh ingredients, but also for the bright colors and textures that make it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
What Is Cucumber Avocado Broccoli Salad
Cucumber Avocado Broccoli Salad is a delightful medley of fresh ingredients that come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and nutrients. The crispness of the cucumbers pairs beautifully with the buttery texture of avocado, while the broccoli adds a hearty crunch that rounds out the salad perfectly. Unlike heavier salads that can leave you feeling weighed down, this one is light and refreshing, making it an ideal choice for warm weather. It shares similarities with other vegetable salads but stands out due to the unique combination of ingredients that provide a satisfying variety of textures and tastes.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Nutritious and packed with vitamins and minerals.
- Family-friendly, appealing to both kids and adults.
- Versatile—great as a side dish, a light lunch, or a potluck contribution.
How Does It Taste?
The flavor profile of Cucumber Avocado Broccoli Salad is a delightful balance of fresh and savory. The cucumbers provide a refreshing crunch, while the avocado adds a creamy, almost buttery richness that enhances every bite. The broccoli offers a subtle earthiness that ties the dish together, and when tossed with a light dressing, it elevates the flavors even further. Each forkful is a delightful symphony of textures—crisp, creamy, and crunchy all at once—making it a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
Health & Ingredient Benefits
Each ingredient in Cucumber Avocado Broccoli Salad brings its own health benefits to the table:
- Cucumbers: Hydrating and low in calories, they help keep you refreshed.
- Avocados: High in healthy fats, they promote heart health and provide a creamy texture.
- Broccoli: Packed with vitamins K and C, it supports immune function and bone health.
This salad not only tastes great but also nourishes your body with wholesome ingredients that make you feel good inside and out!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets – adds a crunchy texture and is packed with vitamins.
- 1 large cucumber – provides a refreshing crispiness and hydration.
- 1 ripe avocado – brings creaminess and healthy fats to the salad.
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes – adds a burst of sweetness and color.
- 1/4 cup red onion – offers a sharp flavor contrast that enhances the salad’s complexity.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – serves as a light dressing base, contributing healthy fats.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – adds a zesty brightness that balances the flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste – essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – for combining all the ingredients.
- Cutting board – to safely chop the vegetables.
- Chef’s knife – for precise cutting of the ingredients.
- Whisk or fork – to mix the dressing.
- Serving spoon – for serving the salad.
Optional Substitutions & Additions
- Use kale or spinach instead of broccoli for a different leafy green option.
- Swap cherry tomatoes for bell peppers for a crunchier option.
- Add nuts like walnuts or almonds for an extra crunch and nutritional boost.
- For a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes.
- For a dairy element, crumbled feta cheese can be added to enhance flavor.
How to Make Cucumber Avocado Broccoli Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing all your fresh ingredients thoroughly. Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets, ensuring they are uniform in size for even mixing. Slice the cucumber into thin rounds or half-moons, and then cut the cherry tomatoes in halves. Lastly, finely chop the red onion. The vibrant colors should be eye-catching and fresh.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The mixture should have a smooth consistency and a bright aroma, setting the stage for the salad’s flavor.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, cucumber, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Gently toss the ingredients together, taking care not to mash the avocado. You want everything to be evenly distributed, and the colors should be vibrant and inviting.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Gently fold the dressing into the salad, ensuring that all the ingredients are coated without breaking apart the avocado. The salad should look glossy and colorful.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate it for a refreshing coolness. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve in individual bowls or on a large platter and enjoy!
What to Serve With
This Cucumber Avocado Broccoli Salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. It can also be served alongside quinoa or brown rice for a heartier option. For drinks, a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with lemon complements the freshness of the salad perfectly.
Tips for Success
- Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly to pressure for the best creaminess.
- Cut the vegetables just before serving to maintain their crunch.
- Adjust the acidity of the dressing to your taste; add more lemon juice for tanginess if desired.
- For added flavor, consider marinating the salad for 30 minutes before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-mixing the salad can lead to mushy avocados and a less appealing texture.
- Using overly ripe vegetables can result in a soggy salad; ensure everything is fresh.
- Skipping the salt and pepper can leave the salad tasting bland; season to taste.
- Not chilling the salad can diminish the refreshing qualities of the dish.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best consumed within 1-2 days to retain the freshness of the ingredients, particularly the avocado.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature; therefore, reheating is not recommended as it could alter the texture of the vegetables. If needed, you can let it sit out for a bit to bring it to room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, but it’s best to add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
- What other vegetables can I add? You can add bell peppers, carrots, or even corn for extra sweetness and crunch.
- Is this salad suitable for meal prep? Absolutely! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
- Can I use frozen broccoli? Fresh broccoli is preferred for texture, but if frozen is all you have, make sure to thaw and drain it well.
Nutritional Info
This Cucumber Avocado Broccoli Salad is relatively low in calories, with approximately 150 calories per serving. It provides healthy fats from the avocado, fiber from the vegetables, and essential vitamins and minerals. Each serving is a great balance of nutrients, making it a wholesome addition to any meal.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant dish that bursts with flavor and nutrients, the Cucumber Avocado Broccoli Salad is an absolute must-try! This delightful salad combines the crispness of cucumbers, the creaminess of avocados, and the hearty bite of broccoli, creating a perfect balance that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also makes for a versatile side dish or a light main course that everyone will love. Whether you’re enjoying it on a sunny day or serving it at your next gathering, the Cucumber Avocado Broccoli Salad is sure to impress and nourish. Give it a whirl, and I promise you’ll be coming back for seconds!
Cucumber Avocado Broccoli Salad
A refreshing and nutritious salad combining cucumbers, avocados, and broccoli, perfect for any meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups fresh cucumbers, chopped (about 2 medium cucumbers)
- 1 cup ripe avocados, mashed (about 2 medium avocados)
- 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped
- 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
-
Step 1
In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, avocados, and broccoli. -
Step 2
In a separate bowl, mix sour cream, lemon juice, dill or parsley, salt, and pepper. -
Step 3
Pour the dressing over the salad and mix gently. -
Step 4
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: ~350 calories. Based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Allergy Information
Always check labels for specific allergen information.