Tomato Cucumber Avocado Salad with Mozzarella and Basil Pesto

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Tomato Cucumber Avocado Salad with Mozzarella and Basil Pesto

Tomato Cucumber Avocado Salad with Mozzarella and Basil Pesto is a vibrant, nutrient-rich dish brimming with fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients. It’s the ultimate Spring and Summer salad—fresh, colorful, and bursting with Mediterranean goodness! Whether served as a side or a light, satisfying main, it’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, block parties, and warm-weather gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in minutes with minimal prep.
  • Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with heart-healthy fats, fresh veggies, and protein-rich mozzarella.
  • Versatile: Works beautifully as a side dish or a standalone meal.
  • Gorgeous Presentation: A beautiful mix of colors and textures on the plate.

Ingredients

  • ½ pound red cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • ½ pound yellow cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 2 ripe avocados, diced
  • 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
  • ⅓ cup red onion, finely diced
  • 8 ounces small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)

Basil Pesto Dressing

This simple, bold dressing ties everything together with a burst of herby, zesty flavor.

  • ¼ cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Note: Basil pesto already contains olive oil, making it a flavorful and naturally rich salad dressing.

How to Make This Summer Salad

  1. Prep the ingredients: Halve the tomatoes, dice the avocados, slice the cucumber, and finely dice the red onion.
  2. Assemble the salad: Arrange all ingredients in a large serving bowl or platter.
  3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together basil pesto and lemon juice.
  4. Toss and season: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  5. Serve immediately, or chill for up to 2 hours before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This refreshing avocado mozzarella salad pairs perfectly with:

  • Grilled chicken, lamb, or steak
  • Mediterranean mains like falafel, chickpea patties, or veggie skewers
  • Seafood dishes, including baked salmon, grilled shrimp, or seared trout
  • Crusty bread or warm pita for scooping

Tips & Variations

  • Add a handful of arugula or baby spinach for extra greens.
  • For added crunch, sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or walnuts.
  • Want a vegan version? Swap mozzarella with diced tofu or a plant-based alternative.
  • Use homemade basil pesto for ultimate freshness if time allows!

Make Ahead

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the vegetables and store them separately. Add avocado and dressing just before serving to maintain peak texture and flavor.

Bright, satisfying, and bursting with flavor, this Tomato Cucumber Avocado Salad with Basil Pesto is a staple for sunny days and vibrant meals.

 

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