Print

Cucumber Avocado Salad Recipe – Easy Fresh Summer Side with Zesty Lime Dressing

cucumber avocado salad - featured image

This vibrant cucumber avocado salad is a quick, fresh, and healthy summer side featuring crunchy cucumbers, creamy avocado, and a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for picnics, BBQs, or light lunches, it’s naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and easily adaptable for vegan diets.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium cucumbers (about 1 lb), sliced into 1/4-inch rounds or half-moons
  • 2 large avocados (about 14 oz), ripe but firm, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (or parsley/chives as substitute)
  • 1/4 medium red onion (about 1 oz), thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (about 5 oz), halved (optional)
  • 1 small jalapeño, deseeded and finely diced (optional, about 0.5 oz)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey or agave (or maple syrup for vegan)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Wash cucumbers and pat dry. Slice into 1/4-inch rounds or half-moons. If using garden cucumbers, peel and deseed. Place in a mixing bowl.
  2. Halve avocados, remove pits, scoop out flesh, and cut into 1/2-inch cubes. Add to the bowl with cucumbers.
  3. Thinly slice red onion, halve cherry tomatoes, and dice jalapeño. Add all to the mixing bowl.
  4. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, honey (or agave/maple syrup), salt, and black pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Pour dressing over veggies. Gently toss with salad tongs or a large spoon, using a folding motion to avoid mashing avocado.
  6. Sprinkle in chopped cilantro (or parsley/chives). Toss gently one last time. Fold in feta cheese or radishes if using.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. The salad should be creamy, crunchy, tangy, and bright.
  8. Transfer to a serving bowl or platter. Garnish with extra cilantro, lime wedges, or flaky sea salt. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best texture, add avocado and dressing just before serving. Salt cucumbers and blot dry for extra crunch. Swap cilantro for parsley or chives if preferred. Make vegan by using agave or maple syrup instead of honey. Optional add-ins: feta cheese, radishes, grilled corn, or pumpkin seeds. Serve chilled and eat within 24 hours for optimal freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber avocado salad, summer salad, lime dressing, gluten-free, vegetarian, easy salad, healthy side, picnic recipe, BBQ side, fresh salad