This is my go-to summer salad when I want something fresh, easy, and super delicious. It’s crunchy, creamy, tangy, and juicy—and takes about five minutes to throw together. You don’t even have to turn on the stove, which is exactly the kind of energy I’m bringing to summer dinner!
Why this salad is always in my fridge
We eat this on repeat all summer. It’s one of those recipes that’s more of a vibe than a formula—toss together juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumber, buttery avocado, and a little red onion for bite. The mustardy white balsamic dressing pulls it all together and makes it feel like an actual side dish instead of a fridge clean-out.
I serve it with literally anything: grilled chicken, air fryer salmon, crusty bread and cheese, slow cooker pulled pork—whatever’s going on that night. Or I just eat it out of the bowl with a fork while hiding in the kitchen. No judgment!
Ingredient notes
I use cherry tomatoes because they hold their shape, but regular tomatoes work too. Just scoop out some of the seeds to keep the salad from getting watery.
I love red onion, but my kids do not. So in full transparency, I often leave it on the side and people can add it to their plates if you want to. If you have picky eaters, feel free to leave it out or serve it on the side.
White balsamic vinegar is my favorite here, but apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar also work. If you only have regular balsamic, that’s fine too—just know the dressing will be darker.
Please don’t skip the fresh herbs! Stick to soft herbs like parsley, chives, cilantro, or basil. I usually go with a mix of chives and parsley. And make sure to pick an avocado that’s ripe but still firm so it doesn’t turn into guacamole the second you stir!
A few things to know
Slice everything into pieces you actually want to eat. A fork-friendly salad is a happy salad!
You can prep the cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs up to a day ahead. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge with a paper towel on top to absorb moisture. But don’t cut the avocado or onion ahead of time. The avocado browns, and the onion will make your fridge smell like betrayal!
Printable recipe
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Ingredients
For the salad:
- 1 cucumber (thinly sliced into half-moons)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 avocado (cubed)
- 1 small-medium red onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (chopped (we like chives, parsley and basil))
For the dressing:
- 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tablespoon whole grain Dijon mustard
- ½ tablespoon honey
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon dried garlic powder
- salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Add all salad ingredients to a large serving bowl. Place all dressing ingredients in a small jar with a tight-fitting lid. Shake well.
- Pour as much dressing over the salad as you like and gently toss. We are a more is more family when it comes to dressing, so we usually use all of it, but if you want your salad only lightly dressed, you can keep leftover dressing in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Serve the salad immediately, so the avocado doesn't brown!
More salad recipes
Recipe first published on 04/19/2019. Post updated with new photos and better instructions on 01/05/2021; and again on July 6th 2025. The recipe has always stayed the same.
Gail says
Best Salad Ever!
Gail s. says
Love love love this salad! It’s the best salad ever and my favorite salad of all time!
Cristi says
I liked the fresh crispness. The dressing is awesome!!
Tracey Roetman says
I enjoy all your recipes and when i am looking for something new, or a twist on what i make 9 time out of ten it’s you I find and make. I am a good cook and enjoy food. Thanks for your touch in my kitchen .
Nora says
Tracey, what a lovely comment! Thank you so much, it’s an honor.
Donna says
The dressing was awesome! I do highly recommend peeling the cucumber in case you get one with a bitter skin (like I did! – bitterness every now and again among bites). Also take the advice of not slicing the avocado until serving, Will make this again(cucumber peeled)!
Nora says
I’m so glad, Donna!
FayD says
We made it according to the recipe. It was absolutely delicious. The dressing was so yummy and perfectly balanced. It’s a keeper now!
Nora says
I’m so glad to hear it!
John says
Sorry I didn’t post this sooner. I made this salad as my contribution to Easter Dinner. It got rave reviews. I love your site and will be using it a lot.
Nora says
I’m so happy to hear this, John. And I’m glad you’re enjoying the site!
Juliana says
Great combination of veggies. I used English cucumber and regular balsamic vinegar because I didn’t have the white variety.The dressing was wonderful!