Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad (with balsamic glaze)
Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes minutes
Servings: 4 servings
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 English cucumber, sliced
- 1 - 2 avocados, large dice
- ½ red onion, slices
- pinch or two red pepper flakes
- S&P, to taste
- 2 - 4 tablespoons balsamic reduction (more to taste)
- 10 leaves fresh basil, ribbons
Cut the cherry tomatoes in half. Cut roma, heirloom or hot house tomatoes into large dice.
Cut cucumber into a large dice or quarter a Persian or mini cuc. No need to peel or seed unless using a field cucumber (thicker skin and larger core of seeds).
Slice in half, remove pit, cut avocado into large dice - scoop out with a spoon.
Slice red onions into half moons or large dice.
Stack and roll fresh basil leaves then slice into ribbons.
How to Make Balsamic Vinegar Reduction
Use store bought balsamic dressing, white balsamic vinaigrette or make your own balsamic reduction.
Balsamic Reduction Recipe: pour half a bottle (1 ½ cups) of inexpensive balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan.
Bring it to a boil, reduce heat and let actively simmer while the vinegar reduces to half. Stir and check on vinegar frequently. Once the vinegar coats the back of the spoon, it's ready. Approximately 30-40 minutes.
The vinegar continues to thicken slightly as it cools. Store in the fridge or cupboard in an airtight container for up to several months.
To Serve
Place cucumbers, tomatoes, avocados, and onions in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Drizzle with balsamic dressing and toss to coat. Garnish with a pinch of hot pepper flakes and basil ribbons.
Balsamic reduction: make the balsamic glaze up to a couple weeks in advance.
Dressing options: try lemon dijon dressing for a Mediterranean flavor profile.
Plant-based protein: add chickpeas, quinoa or couscous to make a heartier salad.
Nuts/seeds: Add raw almonds, pistachios or hemp hearts for extra crunch, nutrients and protein.
Storage: store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for a day or two.