In this avocado salad, creamy avocados are paired with tomatoes, cucumber and crumbled cotija cheese, then gently tossed with a light dressing of honey, lime juice and cilantro.
It is hard not to start salivating when the words Cinco de Mayo (literal translation "Fifth of May") are mentioned. I mean, really, you just can't beat a celebration that involves margaritas and pounds of guacamole made from perfectly ripe avocados. Of course, this holiday is not just about food.
It is commonly, and incorrectly, thought that Cinco de Mayo is Mexico's Independence Day. However, it is the commemoration of the victory of the Mexican militia over French forces in 1862 at the Battle of Puebla.
If you are going to be indulging in dishes laden with melted cheese and rich mole sauces, it would be prudent to serve something on the lighter side to provide some balance in the meal. This salad is not a traditional Mexican dish, but uses some flavors reminiscent of the cuisine. In fact, this vegetable dish could be seen as a spin-off of a Greek salad. Ripe avocados are paired with tomatoes, cucumber and crumbled cotija cheese, then gently tossed with a light dressing of honey, lime juice and cilantro.
Make the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lime juice, honey and salt. While whisking constantly, slowly pour in the olive oil until combined. Stir in cilantro and minced jalapeno.
Make the salad
In a medium bowl, gentle toss together tomato, cucumber, avocado and cotija cheese.
Pour in dressing a little bit at a time, tossing to combine and tasting to determine the amount of desired dressing. Serve.
Other recipes for Cinco de Mayo
Roasted Tomatillo Shrimp Tacos with Honey-Lime Slaw
Rick Bayless' Smoky Peanut Mole with Pork Tenderloin
Printable Recipe
Avocado Salad with Tomato
Ingredients
The dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 ½ teaspoons honey or agave nectar
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons minced cilantro
- 1 teaspoon minced jalapeño pepper adjust to taste
The salad:
- 3 cups chopped English cucumber 1-inch pieces
- 2 cups chopped tomato 1-inch pieces
- 2 Hass avocados cut into 1-inch pieces
- â…“ cup crumbled Cotija cheese
Instructions
The dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lime juice, honey and salt. While whisking constantly, slowly pour in the olive oil until combined. Stir in cilantro and minced jalapeno.
The salad:
- In a medium bowl, gentle toss together tomato, cucumber, avocado and cotija cheese. Pour in dressing a little bit at a time, tossing to combine and tasting to determine the amount of desired dressing. Serve.
Notes
Nutrition
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Averie (LoveVeggiesAndYoga)
Dara this looks awesome!
I have been on a huge avo kick with avo recipes this week and yours looks stellar.
I am KICKING myself that i didnt go to Camp Blogaway. Next year, next year 🙂
Marla decided to go last minute and I wish I coulda joined her and met you,too!
Belinda @zomppa
What a great fun gathering!! This salad is beautiful and photos are stunning.
Christine
Sounds wonderful! I do love a good tomato salad. Will have to try this. Thanks for sharing!
Geni
Fresh and delicious looking salad! I love enjoying salads with crunchy veggies, smooth cheese and a tangy dressing in the summer. I cannot wait to try this as the weather warms up!
Heather at FarmgirlGourmet
Wow. That's all I can say! WOW! Oh and YUM! Looks great Dara!!
d.liff @ yelleBELLYboo
I have been eating too much while traveling the last week - this looks like such a light dinner I MUST make it! Thanks!
Lindsey @ Gingerbread Bagels
What a gorgeous salad. Love the combination of flavors. My mama would especially love this! I'll have to make it for her. 🙂
Mary @ Mary's Nest
This looks lucious. And perfect fare to make here in Texas!
Thanks for sharing your recipe...and the fantastic photos too. Just beautiful.
Love,
Mary
Kelsey/TheNaptimeChef
This looks amazing Dara, I love all the flavors. I agree, hard to temper all that good melty cheese stuff!! 🙂
Jessica
This looks delicious Dara! I love the combination of flavors. It sounds like the perfect addition to my Cinco De Mayo plans! But then again...there is always room for anything that includes some Cotija cheese! 😉