Fresh Cucumber & Avocado Salad

🥗 Ingredients (2 servings)

• 1 large cucumber (or 2 small), thinly sliced or diced
• 1 ripe avocado, cubed
• ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• 1–2 tbsp fresh cilantro, parsley, or dill
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds or pumpkin seeds (optional crunch)

🍋 Simple Dressing

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon or lime juice
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• Optional: pinch of chili flakes or garlic powder

🔥 Instructions

1. Prep the ingredients

• Slice cucumber and avocado just before serving (to keep them fresh)
• Thinly slice onion if using
• Chop herbs

2. Make the dressing

• Whisk olive oil, lemon/lime juice, salt, pepper, and optional sweetener
• Adjust acidity to taste

3. Assemble the salad

• Combine cucumber, avocado, onion, and herbs in a bowl
• Drizzle dressing over gently
• Toss lightly so avocado stays intact

4. Finish

• Sprinkle seeds or extra herbs on top
• Add chili flakes if you want a slight kick

🍽️ Serving Ideas

• Serve chilled for maximum freshness
• Pair with grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp
• Great alongside rice bowls or Mediterranean dishes

💡 Pro Tips

• Use firm but ripe avocado so it doesn’t mash
• Chill cucumber before slicing for extra crunch
• Add dressing just before serving to avoid watery salad
• Lime juice helps prevent avocado browning

🔄 Variations

• Creamy version: add a spoon of Greek yogurt
• Asian twist: use soy sauce + sesame oil + lime
• Protein boost: add chickpeas, tuna, or boiled eggs
• Spicy version: add jalapeño or chili oil