Creamy Cucumber and Avocado Salad

This creamy cucumber and avocado salad is a refreshing, light dish that balances crisp textures with a rich and tangy dressing. The combination of cool cucumber, buttery avocado, and fragrant dill creates a satisfying bite, while the Greek yogurt dressing adds a smooth, slightly tangy flavor. Perfect for warm weather, this salad is a great side dish or a light, healthy meal.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

  • 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, diced avocado, red onion, and chopped dill.
  3. Pour the creamy dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
  4. Let the salad sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  5. Serve immediately, garnished with extra dill if desired.

Nutrients

  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Total Fat: ~12g
    • Saturated Fat: ~2g
    • Monounsaturated Fat: ~7g
    • Polyunsaturated Fat: ~2g
  • Protein: ~3g
  • Carbohydrates: ~8g
  • Fiber: ~4g
  • Sugar: ~2g
  • Servings: 2 servings

Why You’ll Love This Salad

There are plenty of reasons to love this Creamy Cucumber and Avocado Salad. It’s not just about taste but also about the health benefits and versatility of this dish. Here’s why this salad deserves a spot in your meal rotation:

Quick and Easy – Ready in just 10 minutes, this salad is perfect for busy schedules.

Nutrient-Dense – Avocados provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while cucumbers offer hydration and essential vitamins.

Refreshing and Light – Ideal for warm weather or as a palate-cleansing side dish.

Pairs Well with Various Dishes – Complements grilled meats, seafood, sandwiches, and even grain bowls.

Customizable – You can easily tweak the ingredients to fit your preferences or dietary needs.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Both avocado and cucumber are nutritional powerhouses, offering numerous health benefits. Here’s what makes them a great addition to your diet:

  • Avocado: Rich in healthy fats, fiber, potassium, and vitamins C, E, and K. It helps in maintaining heart health, promoting glowing skin, and supporting brain function. Avocados also contribute to satiety, making meals more satisfying and helping with portion control.
  • Cucumber: Contains 95% water, which helps with hydration and digestion. It is low in calories yet packed with antioxidants, supporting overall wellness. Cucumbers are also a good source of fiber, which aids digestion and promotes gut health.
  • Greek Yogurt Dressing: A great alternative to heavy dressings, Greek yogurt adds a boost of protein, probiotics, and calcium while keeping the dish light and creamy. The probiotics in Greek yogurt contribute to gut health, improving digestion and immune function.

How This Salad Fits into a Healthy Diet

This Creamy Cucumber and Avocado Salad is ideal for various dietary needs and goals:

  • Weight Management: With its combination of fiber, healthy fats, and protein, this salad helps keep you full without unnecessary calories.
  • Heart Health: The monounsaturated fats from avocados help reduce bad cholesterol levels, supporting cardiovascular health.
  • Digestive Health: The fiber from cucumbers and avocados, along with the probiotics from Greek yogurt, promote a healthy digestive system.
  • Hydration: Since cucumbers are mostly water, they help keep you hydrated, which is essential for overall well-being.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are a few ideas to enhance your dining experience:

  • As a Side Dish: Perfect alongside grilled chicken, salmon, or even a juicy steak.
  • With Toast or Crackers: Spread it over whole-grain toast or serve with crispy crackers for a snack.
  • In a Wrap or Sandwich: Add this salad to a wrap with grilled chicken or turkey for a filling meal.
  • With Extra Protein: Top it with grilled shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas for a protein boost.

Variations and Additions

You can also experiment with different ingredients:

  • Add Cherry Tomatoes – For a burst of sweetness and color.
  • Include Feta Cheese – For an extra creamy and tangy touch.
  • Spice it Up – A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or chili powder adds a bit of heat.
  • Use Different Herbs – Swap dill with cilantro or parsley for a new flavor profile.

Best Occasions to Serve This Salad

This Creamy Cucumber and Avocado Salad is a great dish for various occasions, including:

  • Summer BBQs and Picnics – Light and refreshing, it complements grilled dishes beautifully.
  • Dinner Parties – An elegant yet simple side dish that pairs well with gourmet meals.
  • Healthy Meal Prep – Prepare it ahead of time for quick and nutritious lunches.
  • Holiday Gatherings – A fresh alternative to heavier dishes during festive meals.

Pairing Ideas

This salad pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. Here are some recommendations:

  • Grilled Chicken – The light, creamy flavors of the salad complement the smoky, savory taste of grilled chicken.
  • Seafood Dishes – Pair it with baked salmon or grilled shrimp for a balanced, protein-rich meal.
  • Vegetarian Options – Serve alongside roasted vegetables, quinoa, or hummus for a complete vegetarian meal.

Storage Tips

While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, here are some storage tips if you need to prepare it in advance:

  • Store in an Airtight Container – Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
  • Prevent Avocado Browning – Drizzle extra lemon juice over the avocado to slow oxidation.
  • Keep Ingredients Separate – If making ahead, store the dressing separately and mix just before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using Overripe Avocados – Too-soft avocados may turn mushy in the salad. Choose firm but ripe avocados for the best texture.
  • Skipping the Lemon Juice – Without acid, avocados oxidize quickly and turn brown. Lemon juice helps maintain their fresh color and flavor.
  • Overdressing the Salad – Adding too much dressing can make the salad watery. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.

Conclusion

The Creamy Cucumber and Avocado Salad is a must-try for anyone looking for a light, refreshing, and nutritious dish. With its combination of crunchy cucumber, creamy avocado, and tangy Greek yogurt dressing, this salad delivers flavor, texture, and health benefits in every bite. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish, a light lunch, or a party favorite, it’s an easy-to-make recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen.

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