Avocado Strawberry Salad
Highlighted under: Daily Cooking
I love making this Avocado Strawberry Salad for a refreshing twist on my usual salads. The combination of creamy avocado with the sweetness of ripe strawberries is simply divine. Not only is it packed with nutrients, but it also adds a beautiful pop of color to any table. I often serve it during summer picnics or as a light lunch, and everyone always loves how fresh and zesty it is, especially with a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of mint.
When I first came across the idea of pairing avocado with strawberries, I was intrigued. I decided to give it a try, and I couldn't believe how well they complemented each other. The creaminess of the avocado offsets the slight tartness of the strawberries, creating a perfect balance. Adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze takes it all to another level!
Through my experiments, I found that allowing the salad to marinate for a few minutes enhances the flavors even more. I usually whip this up right before serving to ensure the freshness of the ingredients, but letting it sit for 5-10 minutes really brings out the best in it.
Why You'll Love This Salad
- The perfect balance of creamy and sweet flavors
- A burst of color and freshness on your plate
- Quick to prepare—ready in just 15 minutes!
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Selecting ripe avocados is key to achieving that creamy texture that complements the strawberries. Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure; they should feel soft but not mushy. If you can only find firmer avocados, you can ripen them at room temperature for a couple of days before using them in this salad. Avoid using overripe avocados, as they'll turn brown quickly after being cut and lose their appealing texture.
As for strawberries, choose ones that are rich in color and fragrant. The ideal strawberries should be plump, firm, and free from bruising. To ensure maximum freshness, try to use strawberries that are in season; this not only enhances the taste but also contributes to the vibrant look of the salad. If fresh strawberries aren't available, you can toss in some frozen ones that have been thawed, but fresh always yields the best flavor and texture.
Enhancing Flavor and Texture
The dressing made with lime juice and honey is essential for balancing the flavors of the salad. Lime juice adds a zesty brightness that complements the sweetness of the strawberries and the richness of the avocado. If you want to elevate the flavor even more, consider adding a pinch of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick. Honey can be adjusted to taste based on your preference for sweetness, or you can omit it entirely for a fresher taste.
When combining the ingredients, be gentle to keep the avocado from mashing. Use a large rubber spatula to fold the ingredients together, ensuring you maintain the integrity of the avocado chunks while evenly distributing the strawberries and onions. This gentle mixing will keep the salad looking fresh and vibrant, ensuring a visually appealing dish that is just as delightful to eat.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Avocado Strawberry Salad:
Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
These ingredients will create a deliciously vibrant salad!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to assemble your salad:
Prepare the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the diced avocados, sliced strawberries, and thinly sliced red onion.
Add Fresh Mint and Dressing
Gently fold in the chopped mint leaves. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and honey. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top just before serving for an extra touch.
Your fresh Avocado Strawberry Salad is now ready to enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For added crunch, consider sprinkling some toasted nuts on top. Pecans or almonds work wonderfully!
Storage Tips
This Avocado Strawberry Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, proper storage is crucial to maintaining its texture. Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, keep in mind that avocado can brown quickly, so it's best to add the lime juice immediately after preparing to help reduce oxidation. If you anticipate having leftovers, consider storing the dressing separately to add fresh just before serving.
For those planning to make the salad ahead of time, prepare all the ingredients except the avocado and dressing. When ready to serve, simply cut the avocado and mix in the dressing to keep everything looking bright and fresh. This makes it ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this vibrant salad even on busy days.
Serving Suggestions
This salad makes an excellent standalone dish, but it can also be a perfect side for a variety of meals. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for a light yet filling dinner. Alternatively, you could use it as a topping for tacos or as part of a burrito bowl to add freshness and crunch.
For a more substantial meal, consider adding protein such as black beans, chickpeas, or grilled chicken right into the salad. This dietary swap not only boosts the nutritional content but also makes it suitable for a full lunch or dinner option. Enjoying this dish cold makes it particularly refreshing for summer gatherings or picnics.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It's best to prepare it fresh as the avocado can brown quickly. However, you can prep the ingredients and assemble everything just before serving.
→ What other fruits can I add?
Feel free to get creative! Blueberries or sliced peaches also pair beautifully with avocado and strawberries.
→ Is this salad vegan?
Yes, this salad is vegan. Just omit the honey or use a plant-based sweetener.
→ Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken or shrimp would be great additions for a more filling meal.
Avocado Strawberry Salad
I love making this Avocado Strawberry Salad for a refreshing twist on my usual salads. The combination of creamy avocado with the sweetness of ripe strawberries is simply divine. Not only is it packed with nutrients, but it also adds a beautiful pop of color to any table. I often serve it during summer picnics or as a light lunch, and everyone always loves how fresh and zesty it is, especially with a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of mint.
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the diced avocados, sliced strawberries, and thinly sliced red onion.
Gently fold in the chopped mint leaves. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and honey. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top just before serving for an extra touch.
Extra Tips
- For added crunch, consider sprinkling some toasted nuts on top. Pecans or almonds work wonderfully!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 10mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 3g