Introduction
Looking for a light, fresh, and tasty salad that’s super easy to make? This Tomato Cucumber Avocado Salad with Mozzarella and Basil Pesto is just what you need! It’s full of juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, creamy avocados, soft mozzarella cheese, and a flavorful basil pesto dressing. You can make it in just a few minutes, and it’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a picnic.
This salad is also great for hot summer days when you don’t want to cook. It’s healthy, colorful, and packed with good stuff your body will love. Plus, it looks beautiful on the plate! Whether you’re making it for your family or bringing it to a party, everyone will love this simple and delicious dish. Let’s jump into what you’ll need and how to make it!
Ingredients – Tomato Cucumber Avocado Salad
Here’s a list of all the ingredients you need to make this salad. You can find them easily in any grocery store:
Salad:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 medium cucumber (sliced or chopped)
- 1 ripe avocado (diced)
- 1 cup mozzarella balls (or cubed fresh mozzarella)
- 2 tablespoons red onion (thinly sliced – optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Basil Pesto Dressing:
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 cloves garlic
- ¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a cheaper option)
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Process – Tomato Cucumber Avocado Salad
Making this salad is super simple. Follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Wash the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half.
- Peel the cucumber (if you prefer) and slice it into rounds or chunks.
- Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and carefully dice it.
- Drain the mozzarella balls or cube a block of mozzarella if that’s what you’re using.
- Slice the red onion into thin strips (if using).
Step 2: Make the Basil Pesto
If you’re making homemade pesto, here’s how:
- In a blender or food processor, add the basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and a little salt.
- Blend until the ingredients start to come together.
- Slowly pour in the olive oil while blending until the pesto becomes smooth. You can add a bit more oil if needed.
- Taste and adjust salt or lemon juice as needed.
Step 3: Combine Everything
- In a large bowl, mix the tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, and mozzarella.
- Add the thinly sliced red onions if using.
- Gently stir everything so the avocado doesn’t mash too much.
Step 4: Add the Pesto
- Add about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the basil pesto to the salad.
- Stir gently to coat everything evenly.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve the salad fresh and enjoy it as a side dish or a light main meal.
- You can also chill it in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before serving for a cooler taste.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Sodium | 250mg |
| Vitamin A | 18% of Daily Value |
| Vitamin C | 20% of Daily Value |
| Calcium | 15% of Daily Value |
| Iron | 6% of Daily Value |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but don’t mix in the avocado or pesto until just before serving. Avocado can brown quickly.
Q2: What if I don’t like avocado?
No problem! You can skip it or replace it with something else like chickpeas, roasted red peppers, or even grilled zucchini.
Q3: Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works just fine. Just choose one with fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Q4: Is this salad vegan?
As it is, the salad includes mozzarella and Parmesan, so it’s not vegan. But you can easily make it vegan by using dairy-free cheese and vegan pesto.
Q5: How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It’s best eaten fresh, but if stored in an airtight container (without the avocado), it can last about 1 day in the fridge.
Q6: What goes well with this salad?
This salad pairs great with grilled chicken, fish, or even some garlic bread on the side. It also makes a nice topping for toasted flatbread!
Final Thoughts
Tomato Cucumber Avocado Salad with Mozzarella and Basil Pesto is one of those dishes that’s both healthy and super tasty. It’s colorful, full of fresh flavors, and easy enough for anyone to make—even kids! The mix of juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and rich basil pesto makes each bite a treat.
Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, a family gathering, or a picnic with friends, this salad is always a hit. Plus, it’s a great way to eat more veggies without feeling like you’re eating “just a salad.”
So grab your ingredients, toss everything together, and enjoy this fresh and fun dish. You’ll be surprised how something so simple can taste so good!
