This bright and fresh tomato cucumber salad pairs perfectly with creamy avocado, tasty mozzarella, and a swirl of basil pesto. It’s a colorful dish that’s bursting with flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and a juicy burst to the salad. If they’re out of season, try using grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes for a similar result.
Cucumber: I prefer English cucumbers for their crunch and less bitter taste. If you don’t have any, any cucumber variety will work, just peel the skin if it’s too thick!
Avocado: They lend creaminess to the salad. If avocados aren’t ripe, swap with diced mango or add more mozzarella for a creamy texture.
Mozzarella Balls: Bocconcini are fantastic but if you can’t find them, regular mozzarella cut into cubes is a perfect substitute. Feta cheese can also add a nice tang.
Basil Pesto: This gives the salad a vibrant flavor. You can use store-bought pesto for convenience or make your own with fresh basil, nuts, olive oil, and Parmesan. If you’re avoiding nuts, just blend the basil with olive oil and cheese.
How Do You Toss a Salad Without Hurting the Ingredients?
Tossing a salad might seem simple, but doing it gently keeps veggies and delicate ingredients like avocado from squishing. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a large mixing bowl to give plenty of room for movement.
- Add your ingredients first, then drizzle the pesto on top rather than mixing it all in at once.
- Using two large utensils, like spoons or salad tongs, gently lift and fold the ingredients rather than stirring vigorously.
- Practice a light touch to ensure everything combines without mashing the softer items.
Enjoy your refreshing salad with ease and confidence!
How to Make Tomato Cucumber Salad With Avocado, Mozzarella, And Basil Pesto
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup basil pesto
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, with an optional 30 minutes for refrigeration to let the flavors blend together. It’s quick to whip up and perfect for a light meal or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Fresh Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add your halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced avocado, mozzarella balls, diced bell pepper, and thinly sliced red onion. These colorful vegetables will create a vibrant salad!
2. Add the Basil Pesto:
Drizzle the basil pesto over the salad mixture. Make sure to season with a pinch of salt and some pepper to enhance the flavors. The pesto will give your salad a delicious, herby taste!
3. Toss It All Together:
Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is well coated with the pesto. Be careful with the avocado to keep it intact as you mix!
4. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the salad to a serving dish and, if you like, garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
5. Chill and Enjoy:
Serve immediately, or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Enjoy your fresh and tasty salad!
Can I Substitute Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! You can customize this salad with your favorite vegetables. Consider adding ingredients like corn, radishes, or even diced zucchini for a different flavor and texture. Just make sure to keep the total volume similar for balance!
How to Keep Avocado from Browning?
To keep your avocado looking fresh, sprinkle a little lemon or lime juice on the diced pieces before adding it to the salad. The acidity helps slow down oxidation and keeps the color vibrant!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare most of the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to add the avocado and pesto just before serving to prevent browning and sogginess. If you’re making it ahead, store the salad components separately in airtight containers in the fridge and combine them right before eating.
How to Store Leftover Salad?
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Note that the avocado may brown and the salad might lose some crunch over time. You can refresh it by adding a bit more pesto or a squeeze of lemon before serving.
