Zesty Avocado & Tomato Pesto Salad

🥗 Zesty Avocado & Tomato Pesto Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados, diced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (use a mix of colors for extra flair)

• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

• 2 tbsp pesto (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 tbsp lemon or lime juice (for that zesty punch!)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Optional: Fresh mozzarella balls or crumbled feta

• Optional: Toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for crunch

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Avocados
   Dice the avocados and toss them gently with the lemon or lime juice to prevent browning and add zest.

2. Combine Ingredients
   In a large bowl, add the cherry tomatoes, red onion, and basil. Gently fold in the diced avocado.

3. Add Pesto & Olive Oil
   Spoon in the pesto and drizzle with olive oil. Toss everything gently until the salad is well coated but the avocado remains intact.

4. Season
   Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

5. Optional Add-ins
   If you’re using mozzarella, feta, or nuts/seeds, mix them in now for extra richness and texture.

6. Serve Immediately
   This salad is best served fresh! Garnish with extra basil leaves if desired.

🌿 Tips:

• Want it spicy? Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

• Make it heartier by adding cooked quinoa, pasta, or grilled chicken.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day (avocado may brown slightly).