Crispy Cucumber Avocado Salad

Name: Crispy Cucumber Avocado Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers, diced; 2 ripe avocados, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted; Juice of 1 lime; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Lifestyle Dishes

I absolutely love this Crispy Cucumber Avocado Salad! With the perfect crunch from fresh cucumbers and the creamy richness of avocado, it’s a refreshing dish that I often turn to during warm days. The bright flavors come together wonderfully, especially when paired with a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This salad not only complements a variety of meals but also stands out as a light yet satisfying dish on its own. You can whip it up in just a few minutes, making it a great option for quick lunches or last-minute gatherings.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-12T12:58:19.563Z

Creating the Crispy Cucumber Avocado Salad was inspired by my love for fresh, vibrant flavors. I found that by combining crisp cucumbers with creamy avocados, the textural contrast enhances each bite. To elevate the flavor profile, I added a dash of soy sauce which surprisingly complements the natural sweetness of the cucumbers perfectly!

While experimenting, I discovered that adding toasted sesame seeds not only enhances the crunch but also adds a wonderful nutty aroma. I always recommend serving it chilled, as this salad tastes even better when the ingredients have had some time to meld together in the fridge.

Why You Will Love This Salad
Refreshing crunch from crisp cucumbers
Creamy texture with every bite of avocado
Bright flavors enhanced with lime and sesame
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

Choosing the Right Ingredients

When preparing this salad, the freshness of your ingredients is key. Select cucumbers that are firm with dark green skin, as these offer the best crunch and flavor. Look for ripe avocados that yield slightly to pressure but are not overly soft. If you're unsure, opt for avocados with a slightly darker hue, as they're likely to be perfectly ripe. For the red onion, a smaller, sweeter variety will add mild flavor without overpowering the other ingredients, making for a balanced dish.

Cilantro brings a refreshing brightness to the salad, cutting through the richness of the avocado. If you're not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley or basil can be excellent substitutes, each bringing their unique herbaceous notes. Additionally, consider toasting sesame seeds lightly in a dry pan over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until they turn golden and fragrant; this will enhance their nutty flavor in the finished dish.

Dressing Tips for Balance

The dressing for this salad is simple yet pivotal. The combination of lime juice and soy sauce adds a zing of acidity and depth of flavor. If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, tamari is an excellent substitute for soy sauce. When mixing the dressing, whisk until fully emulsified which helps distribute flavor across the salad. Aim for a balanced taste: you may want to start with less salt, especially since soy sauce is inherently salty, and adjust according to your preference.

Feel free to experiment with additions to the dressing. A teaspoon of honey can add a touch of sweetness, balancing the salad's flavors particularly if your avocados are on the bland side. Likewise, a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a gentle heat, exciting the palate without overwhelming the salad—something I appreciate when sharing with guests.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

2 large cucumbers, diced
2 ripe avocados, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted

Dressing Ingredients

Juice of 1 lime
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients in a large bowl and toss gently to combine.

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, avocados, red onion, and cilantro.

Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together lime juice, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Enjoy your refreshing salad chilled for the best flavor!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, let the salad sit for 15 minutes after tossing so the ingredients can soak up the dressing.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to prepare it ahead of time, consider making the dressing and cutting the vegetables separately. Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Keep the chopped cucumbers and avocados in separate containers with a splash of lime juice to prevent browning, particularly with the avocado—this ensures that your salad remains vibrant and fresh when it’s time to serve.

If you're anticipating leftovers, add the dressing just before serving to maintain the texture. Avocados can brown quickly, so adding them later preserves the salad's appealing look while keeping the creamy richness intact. The contrast between the juicy cucumbers and creamy avocados will continue to shine, making it a perfect choice for quick lunches or side dishes.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Crispy Cucumber Avocado Salad is incredibly versatile and can shine alongside a variety of dishes. Consider pairing it with grilled chicken or fish for a well-rounded meal; the refreshing crunch complements richer proteins perfectly. You could even elevate your brunch by serving it with poached eggs on top, adding an elegant flair while ensuring a nutritious start to your day.

For a heartier option, feel free to incorporate other ingredients such as cooked quinoa or chickpeas for added protein and texture. Diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes can also brighten the salad with additional colors and flavors. If you're aiming for a richer dish, try a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top just before serving for an extra layer of depth.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, radishes, or even cherry tomatoes can add a flavorful twist.

→ How can I make this salad vegan?

This salad is already vegan if you use a soy sauce that is labeled as vegan-friendly.

→ Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance, but it's best added just before serving to keep the cucumbers crunchy.

→ What should I serve this salad with?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as a refreshing side to any meal.