Avocado Tomato Salad – Easy Summer Salad Recipe

There's something about a chilled Avocado Tomato Salad that just screams summer. The creamy avocados, juicy tomatoes, and zesty dressing come together in a refreshing bite that’s perfect for sunny afternoons and laid-back dinners.

this Recipe

I started making this salad during a particularly hot July when turning on the stove felt like a punishment. What began as a way to use up ripe avocados turned into a go-to recipe that's now a staple at every BBQ, picnic, and even lazy weekday lunch.

This salad is sunshine in a bowl, and it's time to dive into why you'll want to make it all season long.

Why You'll Love This Avocado Tomato Salad

If you're searching for a summer dish that’s easy, fast, and absolutely bursting with flavor, this is it. This Avocado Tomato Salad isn't just a side dish – it’s the star of the table.

First and foremost, it’s incredibly quick to prepare. With just a bit of chopping and tossing, you can have a vibrant, delicious salad ready in under 10 minutes. No cooking, no fuss, and no need to heat up your kitchen.

It’s also budget-friendly and uses ingredients you probably already have on hand. A few ripe avocados, a handful of cherry tomatoes, and some pantry staples are all you need to pull this dish together.

This salad is also super healthy. Packed with heart-healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins, it’s a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on taste. Whether you’re eating clean or just trying to squeeze more veggies into your meals, this recipe delivers.

And let’s not forget how versatile it is. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish, spoon it onto toast, or enjoy it as a light lunch on its own. However you serve it, this dish always shines.

Now let’s take a closer look at what makes this salad so irresistible.

Ingredients Notes

One of the best parts of this Avocado Tomato Salad is how few ingredients it requires – and how each one brings its own unique flavor and texture to the party.

Avocados are the star here, bringing a creamy, buttery texture that makes every bite satisfying. Choose avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure – too firm and they won’t mash slightly when tossed, too soft and they’ll turn mushy.

Cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes are perfect for this recipe. They’re sweet, bite-sized, and don’t require much prep. I love using a colorful medley for visual appeal, but any variety of ripe, flavorful tomato will work beautifully.

Red onion adds a zippy bite that cuts through the richness of the avocado. If raw onion is too strong for your taste, try soaking the slices in cold water for 5-10 minutes to mellow the flavor.

Fresh lime juice is essential. It not only brightens the salad but also helps prevent the avocados from browning too quickly. For the best flavor, always use fresh-squeezed lime juice.

Extra-virgin olive oil, a pinch of sea salt, and some freshly ground black pepper round out the flavors. A sprinkle of chopped cilantro or fresh basil can elevate things even further if you're feeling fancy.

No special equipment needed here – just a sharp knife, a cutting board, and a big bowl for tossing everything together.

How To Make This Avocado Tomato Salad

Putting this salad together couldn’t be easier – it’s all about fresh ingredients and simple steps.

Start by halving your cherry tomatoes and dicing your red onion. If you're using larger tomatoes, just cut them into bite-sized chunks. Place everything into a large mixing bowl to give you plenty of room to toss.

Next, cut your avocados in half, remove the pits, and gently scoop out the flesh. Dice them into chunks similar in size to your tomatoes. Add them to the bowl last to prevent bruising as you mix.

Squeeze fresh lime juice directly over the avocados to brighten the flavors and keep them from browning. Add a drizzle of olive oil, a generous pinch of sea salt, and freshly cracked pepper.

Use a large spoon to gently toss everything together, being careful not to mash the avocados too much. You’re aiming for a cohesive mix where each bite gets a bit of every ingredient.

Taste and adjust as needed – maybe an extra squeeze of lime, a little more salt, or a dash of olive oil. That’s the beauty of this dish – it’s totally customizable.

From start to finish, this salad takes less than 10 minutes to prepare. Serve it immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.

Storage Options

Because of the delicate nature of avocados, this salad is best eaten fresh. However, if you do have leftovers, there are a few ways to keep it looking and tasting great.

Store the salad in an airtight container and press a piece of plastic wrap directly against the surface to minimize browning. It should keep in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

You can also store the chopped tomatoes and onions separately and add freshly diced avocado just before serving. This works well if you’re prepping ahead for a party or meal.

If the salad starts to brown, a quick stir and a fresh squeeze of lime juice can help revive the flavor, even if the appearance isn't quite as vibrant.

When reheating isn't needed (and for this salad, it’s not), just enjoy it cold straight from the fridge or at room temperature.

Variations and Substitutions

The simplicity of this Avocado Tomato Salad makes it a great canvas for customization. You can mix and match ingredients depending on what you have or your dietary preferences.

For added protein, toss in some drained and rinsed chickpeas or crumbled feta cheese. These additions make the salad more filling and add interesting texture contrasts.

Switch up the herbs – try fresh basil for a Caprese-inspired twist or go bold with mint for a cooling, unexpected flavor.

If you don’t have lime juice, lemon juice works just as well, although it gives a slightly different tang. Likewise, shallots can be used instead of red onion for a milder, slightly sweeter bite.

For an extra kick, add a finely chopped jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce. The heat pairs surprisingly well with the creaminess of the avocado.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own. This salad is the ultimate summer companion – light, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable.

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