Avocado Salad
This avocado salad is a vibrant, nutritious dish that celebrates the creamy texture and rich flavor of ripe avocados. Paired with fresh greens and a zesty dressing, it’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish at dinner. Whether you’re an avocado lover or just looking for a healthy addition to your meals, this salad is sure to please. Enjoy the simplicity and freshness of this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
– 2 ripe avocados
– 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, and lettuce)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: nuts or seeds for added crunch
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with no cooking required.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the salad) contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 6g
– Carbohydrates: 14g
– Fat: 22g (healthy fats from avocados)
– Fiber: 8g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Start by washing the mixed greens thoroughly and draining them well.
2. Slice the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh out with a spoon.
3. Cut the avocado into thin slices or cubes, depending on your preference.
4. In a large salad bowl, add the mixed greens.
5. Top the greens with the sliced avocado.
6. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and red onion slices.
7. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
9. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.
10. Toss gently to combine all ingredients and enjoy your fresh avocado salad!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute feta cheese with goat cheese or omit cheese altogether for a dairy-free version. Add nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra crunch or swap lemon juice for lime juice for a different flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
This avocado salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. It can also be served alongside whole grain bread for a complete meal. For a refreshing drink, consider serving it with iced tea or lemonade.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to consume it fresh, as avocados can brown quickly. Avoid freezing the salad to maintain the texture of the avocados.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using unripe avocados leads to a hard texture.
- Not seasoning the salad properly can make it bland.
- Overdressing can make the salad soggy.
- Cutting avocados too early may cause browning.
- Forgetting to wash greens can lead to grit in your salad.
Helpful Tips
- Choose avocados that are slightly soft to the touch.
- Add a pinch of sugar to the dressing for a hint of sweetness.
- Mix in some herbs like cilantro or parsley for added flavor.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
FAQs
What can I add to make this salad more filling?
You can add cooked quinoa, grilled chicken, or chickpeas to make the salad more filling and protein-rich.
How can I prevent the avocado from browning?
To prevent browning, you can toss the avocado slices in lemon or lime juice immediately after cutting.
Can I make this salad in advance?
It’s best to prepare the salad fresh, but you can chop ingredients in advance and assemble right before serving to maintain freshness.
Is avocado salad healthy?
Yes, avocado salad is healthy as it contains healthy fats, fiber, and a variety of vitamins from the greens and other ingredients.
What dressing goes well with avocado salad?
A simple olive oil and lemon vinaigrette pairs well, but you can also use a yogurt-based dressing for creaminess.
Conclusion
This avocado salad is not only easy to prepare but also a delicious and nutritious addition to your meals. With its creamy texture and healthy ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite. Enjoy this delightful dish as a light lunch or side at dinner!
Avocado Salad
Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: nuts or seeds for added crunch
Instructions
- Wash the mixed greens thoroughly and drain them well.
- Slice the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh out.
- Cut the avocado into thin slices or cubes.
- In a large salad bowl, add the mixed greens.
- Top the greens with the sliced avocado.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes and red onion slices.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.
- Toss gently to combine all ingredients and enjoy your fresh avocado salad!