Sunshine Cilantro Avocado Tomato and Feta Salad
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook: Craving a Flavour Burst?
Ever get that feeling where you just need something fresh? Well, this Cilantro, Avocado, Tomato, and Feta salad is exactly what you're after.
Honestly, it's like a party in your mouth, and you’re all invited. The cilantro lime dressing just makes it sing.
Sunshine on a Plate: Overview
This Avocado Feta Salad has roots in the Mediterranean, but with a cheeky Mexican twist. This recipe is super easy and needs only 15 minutes from start to finish.
It makes enough for four, so grab your mates or enjoy it all week long!
Benefits Galore
This Fresh Avocado Salad is not only delicious but also packed with healthy fats and vitamins. Honestly, it’s the perfect easy summer salad for barbecues or picnics.
What makes this Mediterranean salad recipe special? The creamy avocado against the salty feta is simply divine . It is definitely a healthy option, especially when following a balanced diet.
What's So Special?
This isn't just any salad, alright? It's my go-to when I need a quick and healthy meal. The combo of Tomato and Feta Salad with the creamy avocado is just the right amount of texture and flavour.
I always get asked for the recipe!
What's Inside: The Ingredient Lineup
Ready to dive in? You'll need cherry tomatoes, avocados, red onion, cilantro, and, of course, feta. For the zesty cilantro lime dressing , grab some olive oil, lime, garlic, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Let's get chopping!
Ingredients & Equipment: Sunshine Cilantro, Avocado, Tomato, and Feta Salad
Let's gather what we need to make this vibrant salad. This isn't just any Tomato And Feta Salad . It's packed with fresh avocado salad greatness. Trust me, it is pure joy!
Main Ingredients
- Cherry tomatoes: 1 pint (475ml) . Look for firm, bright red ones. The sweeter, the better.
- Avocados: 2 medium . They should yield to gentle pressure. Not rock hard, but not mushy either.
- Red onion: 1/2 cup (120ml) , finely diced. A good quality red onion will have a deep colour.
- Fresh cilantro: 1/2 cup (120ml) , roughly chopped. The cilantro should be vibrant and fragrant. I have never really understood people hating cilantro, honestly...
- Feta cheese: 4 ounces (115g) , crumbled. Go for a block of feta in brine. It's way better than the pre-crumbled stuff.
I still remember the first time I tried Feta Salad . It was at a little Greek taverna. The Mediterranean salad recipe changed my life.
Seasoning Notes
Okay, now for the magic. These are the flavour boosters.
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml) . Extra virgin, of course. It adds richness.
- Lime juice: 1 tablespoon (15ml) . Freshly squeezed is best. That Cilantro lime dressing is everything.
- Garlic: 1 clove , minced. Garlic and olive oil are never really wrong, eh?
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (1ml) , or to taste.
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1ml) , or to taste.
- Red pepper flakes: Pinch (optional). For a little kick.
Don't have lime? Lemon works fine. Out of garlic? Onion powder can help, but it's not the same! This easy Avocado Tomato salad also relies on Cilantro, Avocado, Tomato, and Feta working in harmony, you know?
Equipment Needed
Keep it simple.
- Cutting board.
- Chef's knife.
- Mixing bowl.
- Whisk or fork.
- Measuring cups and spoons.
Don't have a fancy chef's knife? Any sharp knife will do! No whisk? A fork works just as well. This is an easy summer salad , and easy should extend to making it!.
It's a simple Salad with feta cheese .
Sunshine Cilantro, Avocado, Tomato, and Feta Salad
This Avocado Feta Salad is sunshine on a plate. Honestly, this Easy summer salad is like a holiday in a bowl.
Creamy avocado , juicy tomato , salty feta , and zesty cilantro ... Oh my gosh! It's the perfect Mediterranean salad recipe for a light lunch, side dish or even topping some grilled chicken.
I bet you’ll be hooked!
Prep Power-Up
- Mise en place is key here. Chop your Cilantro , dice the Avocado , halve the Tomato , and crumble the Feta . I learned this the hard way: nothing worse than scrambling when guests are waiting.
- Pro Tip: Prep all the ingredients an hour ahead, except Avocado , and store them in separate containers to make the assembling time much faster. Nobody likes a soggy salad.
- Safety First. A sharp knife is a safe knife. Always cut away from yourself. If your blade is dull, sharpen it!
step-by-step Sunshine
- Halve 1 pint (475ml) of cherry tomatoes, then toss them in a bowl.
- Add 2 medium diced avocados and 1/2 cup (120ml) of finely diced red onion.
- Gently mix in 1/2 cup (120ml) of roughly chopped Cilantro .
- Whisk together 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil, 1 tablespoon (15ml) lime juice, 1 clove minced garlic, and 1/4 teaspoon (1ml) each of salt and pepper for your Cilantro lime dressing .
- Pour the Cilantro lime dressing over the Tomato Avocado mixture and toss.
- Crumble 4 ounces (115g) of Feta on top.
- Serve immediately for the best Fresh avocado salad .
Pro Tips for Extra Deliciousness
- Use ripe but firm avocados. They should yield slightly to pressure, but not be mushy. Nobody wants a mushy avocado!
- Avoid overmixing. You don’t want to bruise the Avocado .
- If prepping ahead, wait to add the Feta Salad and Cilantro lime dressing until just before serving to prevent sogginess.
This Salad with feta cheese is more than just a dish; it's a celebration of fresh ingredients and simple flavours.
I’ve made this for countless BBQs. Honestly, this Tomato And Feta Salad is a guaranteed crowd pleaser. So, give it a go, and enjoy a little bit of sunshine on your plate.
You know?
Recipe Notes: Level Up Your Salad Game
So, you're ready to dive into this Cilantro, Avocado, Tomato, and Feta sensation? Ace! This section is your cheat sheet for making it your perfect salad.
Honestly, I've made this Avocado Feta Salad so many times, and I've learned a thing or two. Let's make sure your Tomato And Feta Salad is a total winner.
Plating, Presentation, and Pairings
Wanna make it look fancy? Me too. Mound the Fresh Avocado Salad in a bowl. Sprinkle extra feta cheese on top.
Garnish with a sprig of cilantro. Simple, but effective. For drinks, a crisp white wine or even a sparkling water with a lime wedge works wonders.
Seriously, this easy summer salad practically begs for a patio. For a complementary side try serving with grilled chicken or fish, or even just some tortilla chips for a quick bite.
Storage Secrets
Alright, listen up. Avocado Tomato does not love to sit around. But, if you have leftovers (shocking!), stash them in an airtight container in the fridge.
Eat within 24 hours. The avocado might brown a bit, but it's still safe to eat. Freezing? Nah. This is one Mediterranean salad recipe that's best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating? Absolutely not. Cold is the way to go, fam.
Tweak It 'Til You Make It (Yours!)
This recipe is all about flexibility. Want a vegan option ? Easy peasy! Just swap the feta for a plant based alternative.
Add some extra nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. Got picky eaters? Leave out the red onion. I once swapped the Cilantro Lime Dressing with a lemon vinaigrette, and it was still amazing! Seasonally, stone fruits like peaches can add a sweet contrast.
Honestly, experiment! It's your salad!
Nutrition Nuggets
This Avocado Tomato salad is packed with goodness. Think healthy fats from the avocado, vitamins from the tomatoes, and protein from the feta .
Roughly, we're talking about 280 calories per serving. It's a good source of fiber, which will keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Remember, this is just an estimate. Your mileage may vary, depending on your ingredients.
So there you have it! Don't be afraid to get creative with this salad with feta cheese . Throw in your favourite herbs, try different cheeses, and most importantly, have fun! Now go forth and create your own sunshine salad masterpiece!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prevent the avocado from turning brown in this Cilantro, Avocado, Tomato, and Feta salad? Nobody likes a brown avocado!
Ah, the dreaded avocado browning! To keep your avocado looking vibrant, the lime juice in the dressing is your best friend. Toss the diced avocado with a little bit of the lime juice immediately after cutting it to slow down oxidation.
Also, if you're making the salad ahead of time, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salad to minimize air exposure.
Can I make this Cilantro, Avocado, Tomato, and Feta salad ahead of time?
While this salad is best served fresh, you can prep some components ahead of time. Chop the tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro and store them separately in the fridge. Make the dressing and keep it in an airtight container.
Wait to dice the avocado and crumble the feta until just before serving to maintain their texture and appearance. Combine everything right before you're ready to eat, otherwise it will get soggy faster than a soggy biscuit!
I don't like cilantro! What's a good substitute for it in this Cilantro, Avocado, Tomato, and Feta creation?
Not a cilantro fan? No worries, plenty of people feel the same! Fresh parsley is a great substitute that offers a similar fresh, green flavour, though it's less pungent. Alternatively, a little bit of fresh mint can add a refreshing twist to the salad.
Both are great alternatives, and make sure to use the same amount that the recipe calls for in cilantro.
What are some tasty variations I can make to this Sunshine Cilantro, Avocado, Tomato, and Feta Salad?
This salad is super versatile! For a heartier version, try adding grilled corn kernels and black beans it adds a lovely sweetness and a bit of protein, sort of a southwest taste. You could also grill the tomatoes and red onion before adding them to the salad for a smoky flavour.
A pinch of red pepper flakes in the dressing also kicks things up a notch, if you're feeling daring!
How long will this Cilantro, Avocado, Tomato, and Feta salad last in the fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day, or two, tops. Be aware that the avocado will likely brown and the tomatoes may soften, affecting the overall texture and appearance.
For the best results, add the dressing and feta only to the portion you plan to eat immediately.
Is this Sunshine Cilantro, Avocado, Tomato, and Feta Salad healthy?
Absolutely! This salad is packed with nutrients. Avocados provide healthy fats and fiber, tomatoes are rich in vitamins, and feta adds calcium and protein. Olive oil contributes more healthy fats. As always, moderation is key.
Enjoy in reasonable portions as part of a balanced diet just like your mum used to say!
Sunshine Cilantro Avocado Tomato And Feta Salad
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 280 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 5g |