Avocado Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 medium cucumber, sliced
• A handful of fresh coriander (cilantro), roughly chopped
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 red chili pepper, sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
• A mix of green leaves such as watercress, arugula (rocket), or baby spinach

Method:

1. Prepare the salad ingredients: Start by slicing the avocados and cucumbers, halving the cherry tomatoes, thinly slicing the red onion, and slicing the red chili pepper.
2. In a large serving bowl, combine the sliced avocados, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, thinly sliced red onion, and sliced red chili pepper.
3. Sprinkle the roughly chopped fresh coriander (cilantro) over the mixed salad ingredients. This will add a burst of fresh flavor and color to the salad.
4. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil and lemon juice until well combined. Season the dressing with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you prefer a bit of heat, add the red chili flakes to the dressing for some extra spice.
5. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture in the serving bowl. Use a pair of salad tongs or a large spoon to gently toss the salad, ensuring that all the ingredients are lightly coated with the dressing and well combined.
6. Arrange a mix of green leaves such as watercress, arugula (rocket), or baby spinach on individual serving plates.
7. Top the bed of greens with the dressed avocado salad mixture, distributing it evenly among the plates.
8. Serve the avocado salad immediately for the freshest taste, or if preferred, you can chill it briefly in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
9. Enjoy this delightful medley of fresh and vibrant flavors as a standalone meal or as a refreshing complement to your main course. The creamy texture of the avocados, combined with the juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and zesty dressing, makes this salad a true crowd-pleaser.

some additional tips and variations to enhance your avocado salad:

1. Protein Boost: Add protein-rich ingredients to make the salad more satisfying and nutritious. You can include grilled chicken slices, cooked shrimp, canned chickpeas, or tofu cubes to turn it into a complete meal.
2. Cheese Options: Incorporate cheese for extra flavor and creaminess. Crumbled feta cheese, diced mozzarella, or shaved Parmesan are excellent choices that complement the avocado and other ingredients well.
3. Nutty Crunch: Add some texture and healthy fats by tossing in toasted nuts or seeds. Try sliced almonds, pine nuts, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch.
4. Citrus Zest: Enhance the citrusy flavor by adding a sprinkle of lemon or lime zest over the salad just before serving. The zest adds brightness and freshness to each bite.
5. Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs to elevate the flavor profile. In addition to coriander (cilantro), try using fresh basil, mint, or parsley for a refreshing twist.
6. Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic glaze or reduction over the salad for a sweet and tangy flavor boost. It adds depth to the dressing and complements the creamy avocado beautifully.
7. Grilled Vegetables: For a smoky flavor, grill some vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus and add them to the salad. Grilled veggies add a depth of flavor and a hint of char that pairs well with the other ingredients.
8. Crouton Crunch: If you enjoy a bit of crunch in your salad, consider adding homemade or store-bought croutons. They add texture and absorb the dressing, enhancing the overall taste experience.
9. Avocado Dressing: For an extra creamy dressing, blend one of the ripe avocados with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a touch of honey or maple syrup until smooth. Drizzle this avocado dressing over the salad for an indulgent twist.
10. Mexican-Inspired: Give your salad a Mexican flair by adding ingredients like black beans, corn kernels, diced jalapeños, and a dollop of salsa or guacamole on top. It’s a fiesta of flavors in every bite!

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create your own unique avocado salad masterpiece. Whether served as a light lunch, a side dish, or a refreshing appetizer, this versatile salad is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and delicious flavors. Enjoy!

Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite additions such as grilled chicken, shrimp, feta cheese, or toasted nuts for added protein and texture.

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