Creamy Avocado Salad!

🥑 Creamy Avocado Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, and diced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

• 1/2 cucumber, diced (optional for extra crunch)

• 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned; optional but adds sweetness)

• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (optional for a fresh, herby touch)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Dressing:

• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or use sour cream for a richer taste)

• 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 garlic clove, minced or grated (or 1/4 tsp garlic powder)

• 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for a kick)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Step 1 — Make the Creamy Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic, chili powder (if using), and salt and pepper.

2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed (more lime, salt, or chili powder if you like it tangier or spicier).

Step 2 — Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber (if using), corn, and cilantro together.

2. Drizzle the creamy dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients. Be careful not to mash the avocado too much!

3. Taste and add more salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed.

Step 3 — Serve

• Serve immediately as a side dish, or enjoy it as a main on its own with grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a taco bowl.

• You can also serve it with tortilla chips or crackers for a fun dip!

🍴 Tips for Success:

• Choose ripe avocados for the best texture and flavor—soft but not mushy.

• If you’re making this salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate and combine right before serving to prevent the avocado from turning brown.

• If you’re making it for meal prep, squeeze a bit of lime or lemon juice over the diced avocados before storing them to help prevent browning.

• Add-ins: You can customize the salad with extras like black beans, crumbled feta cheese, or roasted sweet potatoes.

🥑 Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1: Can I use store-bought dressing?

A: While homemade is always best for freshness and flavor, you can use a store-bought creamy dressing (like ranch, green goddess, or cilantro lime) if you’re in a pinch. Just make sure it’s something that complements the avocado’s creamy texture.

Q2: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

A: The avocado can brown over time, so it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving. However, you can chop the veggies and make the dressing ahead of time, then combine them when ready to serve.

Q3: How do I prevent the avocado from turning brown?

A: Squeeze a bit of lime or lemon juice over the cut avocado before mixing it into the salad. The acidity helps slow down oxidation and keeps the green color vibrant.

Q4: Can I make this salad dairy-free?

A: Yes! For a dairy-free version, simply replace the Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or a plant-based yogurt of your choice. You can also skip the yogurt and use more lime juice and olive oil for a lighter dressing.

Q5: Can I add protein to this salad?

A: Definitely! You could add:

• Grilled chicken or shrimp for a lean protein boost.

• Canned tuna or chickpeas for a quick protein addition.

• Grilled steak or tofu for a heartier option.

Q6: How can I make this salad spicier?

A: If you love heat, try adding:

• Chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers.

• A pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika in the dressing.

• A drizzle of hot sauce on top just before serving.

Q7: Can I add cheese?

A: Yes! Crumbled feta cheese or shredded cheddar cheese would both be great additions. If you want a creamy twist, you can also add some cream cheese into the dressing for extra richness.

Q8: What are some good sides for this salad?

A: You can pair it with:

• Grilled fish or chicken (especially lime or cilantro marinated)

• Tacos or taco bowls

• Grilled veggies or roasted potatoes

• Rice (try cilantro lime rice or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option)

🥑 Possible Variations

• For extra crunch: Add toasted pumpkin seeds, almonds, or croutons on top.

• For a tropical twist: Add pineapple or mango for a sweet touch that complements the creaminess of the avocado.