An avocado and cilantro salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the creamy richness of avocado and the fresh, aromatic quality of cilantro. Here’s a basic recipe that’s easy to prepare:
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, and diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced (optional)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese or goat cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds (optional for added crunch)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the avocados and chop the fresh cilantro. Finely chop the red onion and halve the cherry tomatoes. Dice the cucumber if you’re using it.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice (or lemon juice), honey (or agave syrup), Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and black pepper.
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Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, gently combine the diced avocado, chopped cilantro, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber (if using).
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Add Optional Ingredients: If you’re using feta cheese or crumbled goat cheese, add it to the salad. You can also sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds on top for added crunch.
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Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat the ingredients without mashing the avocado.
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Serve: Enjoy the salad immediately for the best texture, or chill it for a short time if you prefer.
This salad is perfect on its own or as a side dish to grilled meats or seafood. You can also add other ingredients like black beans or corn for extra heartiness.
