This fresh tomato cucumber salad is like a burst of summer! With juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, creamy avocado, and soft mozzarella, it’s bright and full of flavor.
Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish at a barbecue—it’s so tasty, I can hardly resist going back for seconds. Just toss it all together, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: Using a mix of red and yellow tomatoes not only adds color but also different flavor notes. If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, feel free to use diced regular tomatoes instead.
Cucumber: A medium cucumber sliced into half-moons adds crunch. If you’re looking for alternatives, Persian cucumbers or even zucchini are great options.
Avocado: Choose a ripe avocado for creaminess. If avocados aren’t available, you could use diced mango or even pears for a different twist—just adjust the seasonings to balance flavors.
Mini Mozzarella Balls: These bring a mild cheese flavor and a fun texture. If you’re dairy-free, try using marinated tofu cubes or skip the cheese entirely!
Basil Pesto: Store-bought pesto is fine, but homemade is often fresher. If you don’t have pesto, a squeeze of lemon juice and some chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley works nicely.
How Do I Toss a Salad Without Making a Mess?
Carefully mixing your salad can keep it looking fresh and appealing. To toss without creating a mess, use these tips:
- Use a large bowl to give yourself room to mix without ingredients spilling over.
- Start by adding the lightest ingredients first (like greens) and layer heavier ones on top (like mozzarella). This helps avoid breakage.
- Use two large spoons or salad tongs. Gently lift and fold the ingredients over, rather than stirring vigorously.
- Be gentle with soft items like avocados to prevent them from mashing.
With these methods, you keep your salad looking bright and ready to impress!
Fresh Tomato Cucumber Salad with Avocado and Mozzarella
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red and yellow for color)
- 1 medium cucumber, sliced into half-moons
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 small red onion, diced
- 1 cup mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, if additional dressing desired)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad can be ready in just about 15 minutes! That includes the time to wash and chop your fresh ingredients. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a wonderful side dish or light meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing the cherry tomatoes and cutting them in half. Next, slice the cucumber into thin half-moons for that nice crunch. Then, carefully dice the avocado and red onion so everything is ready to go.
2. Combine in a Bowl:
In a large bowl, toss together the halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, diced avocado, and red onion pieces. This is where the magic begins!
3. Add the Mozzarella:
Now, it’s time to add that creamy goodness! Toss in the mini mozzarella balls into the salad bowl. Enjoy the sight of this colorful mix of ingredients!
4. Dress the Salad:
Spoon in the fresh basil pesto over the top. If you like a little extra drizzle, add about 1 tablespoon of olive oil to enhance the flavors!
5. Toss Gentle:
Gently toss all the ingredients together. Make sure everything gets coated with the pesto, but be cautious not to mash the avocado. You want those beautiful chunks to stay intact!
6. Season to Taste:
Now, sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the salad. Give it one last gentle toss to combine!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your fresh tomato cucumber salad is ready to be served immediately! It’s perfect as a vibrant side dish or a light meal all on its own. Enjoy!
This colorful salad is not just a treat for the eyes but also packed with fresh flavors—ideal for warm days or as a refreshing accompaniment to grilled dishes!
FAQ for Fresh Tomato Cucumber Salad with Avocado and Mozzarella
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you prefer a stronger cheese flavor, try feta cheese or goat cheese. For a dairy-free option, consider marinated tofu or omit the cheese entirely—it will still be delicious!
How Do I Keep the Avocado from Browning?
To keep your avocado fresh, try squeezing a bit of lemon or lime juice over it right after cutting. The acidity helps prevent browning. If you plan to make the salad ahead of time, add the avocado just before serving.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep most ingredients ahead of time. Slice the vegetables and store them in the fridge separately; mix everything together, including the avocado and dressing, just before serving to keep it crisp!
What Should I Serve This Salad With?
This salad pairs nicely with grilled meats, seafood, or as part of a picnic spread. It’s also great on its own as a light meal, especially when served with a crusty piece of bread or alongside some grilled vegetables!
