If you’re searching for a salad that bursts with vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and a hint of sophistication, look no further than this Strawberry Tomato & Avocado Salad Recipe. It blends the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries with juicy cherry tomatoes and creamy avocado, enhanced by a zingy balsamic dressing and fragrant basil. Perfect for a light lunch or a stunning side, this salad is as easy to make as it is delightful to eat. It truly celebrates the simple joys of fresh ingredients coming together in harmony.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Strawberry Tomato & Avocado Salad Recipe requires a handful of fresh, accessible ingredients that each bring their own unique contribution to the dish—whether it’s sweetness, creaminess, or that perfect peppery pop. Keeping ingredients simple allows every flavor to shine brilliantly.
- 1 cup fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced): Choose ripe, juicy strawberries for a sweet and bright flavor that contrasts perfectly with other ingredients.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved): These burst with tangy juiciness, adding a refreshing texture and vibrant red color to the salad.
- 1 ripe avocado (diced): Offers a creamy, buttery balance that smooths out the tartness from the fruit and vinegar.
- 1/4 small red onion (thinly sliced): Adds just the right sharpness and crunch without overpowering the other fresh flavors.
- 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves (chopped): Brings an aromatic, peppery flair that complements both fruit and vegetables beautifully.
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: The backbone of the dressing, lending richness and silky mouthfeel.
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar: Imparts a sweet and tangy depth that ties all the salad components together.
- 1/2 tsp honey (optional): Adds a subtle sweetness to balance acidity if desired.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Enhances and rounds out the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Strawberry Tomato & Avocado Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
Begin by gently tossing your hulled and sliced strawberries, halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, and thinly sliced red onion in a large bowl. This mix creates a luscious base full of contrasting textures—the softness of avocado blends with the juicy pop of strawberries and tomatoes while the onion adds a crisp bite. Handle everything with care to keep the avocado from mashing.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (if using), salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. This simple but flavorful dressing balances acidity with a touch of sweetness and richness. The honey is optional, but it beautifully rounds the sharpness of the vinegar if you prefer a softer taste.
Step 3: Dress and Toss Gently
Pour the dressing over your combined fresh ingredients. Toss everything gently and evenly, making sure the avocado pieces stay intact and beautifully coated. The goal is to marry all the flavors without turning your salad into mush—maintaining that vibrant texture is key to its appeal.
Step 4: Finish with Basil and Serve
Sprinkle chopped fresh basil leaves over the salad just before serving. The fresh herb adds a fragrant, peppery finish that elevates the entire dish. Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the freshness and vivid colors at their peak.
How to Serve Strawberry Tomato & Avocado Salad Recipe
Garnishes
This salad shines on its own, but for an extra touch of elegance and flavor, sprinkle some crumbled feta or goat cheese on top. The tangy creaminess of the cheese provides a lovely counterpoint to the fruity sweetness and adds another dimension of indulgence.
Side Dishes
Pair this salad alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a simple pasta dish for a complete, balanced meal. Its bright, refreshing flavors cut through heavier dishes beautifully, making it a versatile companion for many summer menus.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive gathering, consider serving this Strawberry Tomato & Avocado Salad Recipe in individual clear glass jars or small bowls layered with ingredients for a striking visual effect. You could also stuff it into avocado halves for a fun and edible serving bowl—perfect for impressing guests with minimal effort.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad is best enjoyed fresh due to the avocado’s tendency to brown once cut. If you need to store leftovers, place them in an airtight container with a squeeze of lemon or lime juice over the avocado to help slow browning and refrigerate for up to 1 day.
Freezing
Because of the fresh fruit and creamy avocado, this salad does not freeze well. The texture will deteriorate significantly upon thawing, so it’s best to prepare only what you can enjoy immediately.
Reheating
This is a fresh, no-cook salad meant to be served cold or at room temperature. Reheating is not recommended as it compromises the texture and flavor of the fresh ingredients.
FAQs
Can I substitute other fruits for strawberries?
Absolutely! While strawberries provide a unique sweet and tart balance, you could try blueberries or diced peaches for a different but delicious twist. Keep in mind this will slightly change the flavor profile.
What can I use instead of balsamic vinegar?
If balsamic vinegar isn’t on hand, you can substitute with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a similar tangy effect. Adjust the honey accordingly to maintain the right balance of sweetness.
How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
To slow browning, toss the avocado with a little citrus juice before adding it to the salad or store the salad in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly on its surface. Enjoying the salad promptly is key.
Is this salad suitable for special diets?
Yes! This Strawberry Tomato & Avocado Salad Recipe is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for those with dietary restrictions or anyone looking for a healthy, fresh option.
Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Definitely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be wonderful additions to boost protein content and turn this delicious salad into a satisfying main dish.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Tomato & Avocado Salad Recipe is a true celebration of fresh, simple ingredients coming together in a unique and delightful way. It’s quick to prepare, stunning to look at, and full of flavor that feels both refreshing and indulgent. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your culinary rotation—you’re going to love how this little salad brightens up any meal or occasion.
Print
Strawberry Tomato & Avocado Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian,Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Strawberry Tomato & Avocado Salad that combines the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries and cherry tomatoes with creamy avocado and a tangy balsamic dressing. This no-cook, quick-to-prepare salad is perfect as a healthy side dish or light meal, enhanced by fresh basil and a hint of honey for a subtle balance of flavors.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 ripe avocado (diced)
- 1/4 small red onion (thinly sliced)
- 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves (chopped)
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 tsp honey (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine the salad ingredients: In a large bowl, gently toss together the sliced strawberries, halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, and thinly sliced red onion, taking care not to mash the avocado to maintain its texture.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey if using, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Dress and toss the salad: Pour the dressing evenly over the salad ingredients in the large bowl, then toss gently to coat everything without crushing the avocado.
- Add fresh basil: Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the dressed salad, giving it a final gentle toss or stir to distribute the herb flavors throughout.
- Serve immediately: Transfer the salad to serving plates or bowls and enjoy fresh for best flavor and appearance, as avocado tends to brown when left to sit.
Notes
- Serve this salad fresh as avocado may brown over time, affecting the visual appeal and taste.
- For a creamy, tangy twist, consider adding crumbled feta or goat cheese.
- You can adjust the sweetness of the dressing by omitting or adding honey according to your preference.
- This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or seafood for a more substantial meal.
