Mediterranean Avocado Tomato Onion Salad

🥗 Mediterranean Avocado Tomato Onion Salad

Serves: 4
Prep time: 10–15 minutes
Cuisine: Mediterranean / Healthy

🧾 Ingredients

• 2 ripe avocados, diced

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 large tomatoes, chopped)

• ½ medium red onion, thinly sliced

• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (or red wine vinegar)

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, finely chopped

• Salt, to taste

• Black pepper, to taste

• Optional additions:

  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese

  • ½ cucumber, diced

  • Olives (Kalamata or green)

  • A pinch of dried oregano

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables
   Dice the avocados, halve the tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion.

2. Combine gently
   Add all vegetables to a large bowl. Toss carefully to avoid mashing the avocado.

3. Make the dressing
   In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.

4. Dress the salad
   Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently.

5. Finish & serve
   Sprinkle fresh herbs on top. Add feta or olives if using. Serve immediately.

🥄 Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or lamb

• Enjoy as a light lunch with crusty bread

• Spoon over grilled halloumi or chickpeas for a vegetarian meal

❓ Q & A

Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

A: It’s best served fresh. If needed, prep all ingredients except avocado and add it just before serving to prevent browning.

Q2: How do I keep the avocado from turning brown?

A: Lemon juice helps slow oxidation. Keep the salad tightly covered and refrigerated if storing briefly.

Q3: Can I substitute lemon juice?

A: Yes. Red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or balsamic vinegar work well, though balsamic will slightly sweeten the salad.

Q4: Is this salad vegan?

A: Yes, as long as you skip feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Q5: What protein can I add?

A: Great options include:

• Grilled chicken or shrimp

• Canned chickpeas or white beans

• Tuna or salmon

• Quinoa for a plant-based boost

Q6: What onions work best?

A: Red onion is traditional, but you can also use:

• Shallots (milder)

• Sweet onions

• Soaked onions (soak in cold water 10 minutes to reduce sharpness)

Q7: Is this salad healthy?

A: Absolutely. It’s rich in:

• Healthy fats (avocado & olive oil)

• Vitamins A, C, K

• Fiber and antioxidants
  Perfect for Mediterranean and heart-healthy diets.