If you’re in search of a fresh and vibrant salad that’s full of flavor, look no further than this delightful Avocado Salad with Mozzarella, Basil Pesto, Tomatoes, and Cucumbers. Imagine the creamy richness of ripe avocado paired with the succulent sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the crisp, cool bite of cucumbers. This salad not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a lovely combination of textures and colors that make it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Tossed in a zesty basil pesto dressing and finished with soft mozzarella, it’s a light yet satisfying dish that serves wonderfully as a standalone meal or a mouthwatering side. Perfect for summer barbecues or quick lunches, this salad is sure to become a favorite among family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is a true delight thanks to its fresh, colorful ingredients and a deliciously creamy dressing. The harmonious blend of creamy avocado with rich mozzarella feels indulgent, while the refreshing tomatoes and cucumbers add a crispness that balances the dish beautifully. The basil pesto dressing brings everything together with its vibrant herbaceous flavor, creating a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking just a few minutes, and can be customized with your favorite ingredients! Whether you’re a salad enthusiast or simply looking for a new way to enjoy avocado, this recipe is a must-try!

The Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
• 2 tbsp basil pesto
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by dicing the avocado and cucumber, halving the cherry tomatoes, and slicing the fresh mozzarella balls in half. Once that’s done, set everything aside.
2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the basil pesto, lemon juice, and olive oil until they are well combined. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
3. Combine the salad: In a large salad bowl, gently toss together the diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and the halved mozzarella balls.
4. Add the dressing: Pour the homemade basil pesto dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure all the fresh ingredients are evenly coated.
5. Garnish and serve: Top with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately. Enjoy this delightful salad as a light meal on its own or as a delectable side dish!

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: For the best flavor and texture, serve the salad fresh. It pairs excellently with grilled meats and can also stand alone as a light and refreshing lunch.
• Storage: While this salad is best enjoyed immediately, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. Note that the avocado may brown slightly, so it might be best to add the avocado just before serving if preparing it ahead of time.

Helpful Notes

• To keep the avocado from browning too quickly, toss the diced avocado with a little extra lemon juice.
• For some added fun, consider incorporating other fresh ingredients like thinly sliced red onions, bell peppers, or a handful of peppery arugula.
• If fresh mozzarella balls are difficult to find, you can easily substitute them with cubed regular mozzarella or even crumbled feta for a delightful twist on flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pesto?
Certainly! Store-bought basil pesto works perfectly for this recipe, but if you have the time, making your own homemade version will add an even fresher flavor that you’ll love.

2. Can I add other proteins to this salad?
Absolutely! Adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can transform this salad into a heartier meal, perfect for lunch or dinner.

3. Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply omit the mozzarella altogether and opt for a vegan pesto. You can include some tofu cubes or add additional avocado to maintain that creamy texture.

4. Can I substitute the lemon juice with something else?
Definitely! Lime juice or a dash of balsamic vinegar can also work well, providing that desired tanginess to the salad.

5. How do I keep the salad from becoming too watery?
To minimize excess moisture, make sure to remove the seeds from the cucumber before dicing it, as they can release quite a bit of water. Moreover, using firmer tomatoes will help keep the salad from getting soggy.