Refreshing Tomato and Avocado Salad with Balsamic Dressing
Experience the freshness of summer with this Refreshing Tomato and Avocado Salad. Perfectly ripe tomatoes and creamy avocado come together in this vibrant salad, enhanced by the crunchy texture of red onions. A simple yet delicious dressing of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a hint of lemon juice brings all the flavors together. This salad is not only easy to prepare but is also a healthy addition to any meal, making it a great side or light lunch option. Share this delightful recipe with friends and family at your next gathering, and enjoy the burst of flavors!
4
Servings
80
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Vine ripe tomatoes
2 (chopped)
Avocado
1 (chopped)
Red onion
1/4 cup (diced)
Olive oil
1 tablespoon (none)
Balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon (none)
Lemon juice
1 teaspoon (none)
Salt
to taste (none)
Fresh pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, avocado, and diced red onion.
2
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and fresh pepper to create the dressing.
3
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss until evenly coated.
4
Allow the salad to sit for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5
Serve the salad fresh as a side dish or a light meal.
Nutrition Information
6g
Fat
6g
Carbs
1g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Refreshing Tomato and Avocado Salad?
It is a vibrant summer salad made with ripe tomatoes, creamy avocado, and crunchy red onions, tossed in a simple balsamic and lemon dressing.
Is this salad vegan-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based and vegan as it uses only vegetables, oils, and vinegar.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving of this salad contains approximately 80 calories.
What ingredients are needed for the dressing?
The dressing is made by whisking together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and fresh pepper.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 4 servings.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
The recipe recommends using vine-ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and freshness.
How much fat is in this salad?
There are 6 grams of fat per serving, primarily coming from the healthy fats in the avocado and olive oil.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
While it's best served fresh, you should let it sit for at least 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. However, avocados may brown if left for too long.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
What is the protein content of this dish?
This salad provides approximately 1 gram of protein per serving.
What equipment do I need to make this?
You will need a large mixing bowl for the salad and a small bowl to whisk the dressing.
Can I substitute the red onion?
While red onion provides a specific crunch and color, you could use green onions or shallots for a milder flavor.
What makes this salad 'refreshing'?
The combination of juicy tomatoes, citrusy lemon juice, and cool avocado makes it a light and crisp choice for warm weather.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 6 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is there any added sugar in this recipe?
No, this recipe does not include any added sugars; the sweetness comes naturally from the balsamic vinegar and tomatoes.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
How should the avocado be prepared?
The avocado should be chopped into bite-sized pieces before being added to the bowl.
What is the purpose of the 5-minute rest period?
Letting the salad sit for 5 minutes allows the balsamic dressing to penetrate the vegetables, resulting in a more cohesive flavor.
Is this a good side dish for a BBQ?
Absolutely! Its bright flavors and healthy profile make it an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats or plant-based burgers.
Can I add other herbs to this salad?
Yes, although not in the base recipe, fresh basil or cilantro would be excellent additions.
What should I do if my avocado is too hard?
It is best to use a ripe, creamy avocado. If it is too hard, the texture of the salad will be less desirable.
Is there any cholesterol in this salad?
No, this recipe contains zero cholesterol.
How do I ensure the avocado doesn't get mashed?
Toss the salad ingredients gently once the dressing is added to keep the avocado chunks intact.
Can I use white balsamic vinegar instead?
Yes, white balsamic vinegar can be used if you prefer a lighter color and a slightly more tart flavor.
What is the prep time for this recipe?
The recipe is very quick, requiring only basic chopping and mixing, typically taking less than 10 minutes.
Is this salad low in sodium?
The sodium level depends on how much salt you add 'to taste,' but the base ingredients are naturally low in sodium.
Can I add cheese to this recipe?
Feta or fresh mozzarella pearls would make great additions if you are not looking for a vegan option.
What category does this recipe fall under?
This recipe is categorized under Salads.
How much red onion is used?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of diced red onion.
Is this salad suitable for a light lunch?
Yes, it can be served as a side dish or enjoyed on its own as a light, healthy lunch.