Introduction
This salad is a celebration of crisp textures and vibrant flavors. You get the cool crunch of cucumber, the creamy richness of avocado, and the surprising tangy-sweet punch from bread and butter pickles, all tied together with fresh cilantro. It’s a uniquely refreshing and satisfying side dish or light meal that comes together with minimal effort.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes (passive, for chilling)
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 large English cucumber, peeled and chopped (about 320 grams)
- 1 large ripe avocado, peeled and chopped (about 220 grams)
- 2 large green onions or spring onions, chopped
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (about 25 grams)
- 1/2 cup bread and butter pickles, chopped (70 grams)
- 1 cup cloves or broccoli sprouts (optional) (30 grams)
- 1/4 cup Roasted and salted sunflower seeds (35 grams)
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice (or more to taste)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup chopped hard cheese (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped English cucumber, avocado, green onions, cilantro, and bread and butter pickles.
- Add the optional broccoli sprouts and chopped hard cheese, if using.
- Drizzle the lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil over the salad.
- Gently toss all ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to mash the avocado.
- Taste and add salt as needed, keeping in mind that the pickles and sunflower seeds are already salted.
- Fold in the roasted sunflower seeds just before serving to maintain their crunch.
- For best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.
Variations
- Deconstructed Bowl: Serve the prepared salad over a bed of cooked quinoa or mixed greens for a heartier meal.
- Different Chop: For a more delicate salad, use a vegetable peeler to create cucumber and avocado ribbons instead of chopping them.
- Alternative Technique: For a creamier texture, mash half an avocado and mix it with the lemon juice and olive oil to create a simple dressing before tossing with the other ingredients.
- No-Oil Option: Omit the olive oil for a lighter, more acidic salad that lets the fresh ingredients shine.
Tips for Success
- For the best texture, chop the avocado last and add it just before tossing to prevent browning.
- To quickly chill the salad, spread it on a baking sheet and place it in the freezer for 5-10 minutes instead of the full 30 in the fridge.
- Taste the salad before adding salt. The pickles, cheese, and sunflower seeds contribute saltiness.
- If making ahead, add the avocado and sunflower seeds right before serving to keep them firm and crunchy.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The cucumbers will release water and the avocado will soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. This salad is not suitable for reheating; serve it cold directly from the fridge.
FAQ
What are bread and butter pickles?
They are sweet and tangy pickles made from cucumbers, onions, and a brine with sugar and spices. You can find them in the pickle aisle of most grocery stores.
Can I use a different type of cucumber?
Yes, you can use a regular cucumber, but you may want to scoop out the watery seed core with a spoon before chopping to prevent a soggy salad.
My avocado is browning. What can I do?
The lemon juice in the recipe helps prevent browning. Ensure your avocado is fully coated during mixing. For storage, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salad to limit air exposure.
What kind of hard cheese works best?
A firm cheese like aged cheddar, Gouda, Manchego, or Parmesan works well. It adds a salty, savory element that complements the other flavors.
What exactly are “cloves” in the optional ingredient?
This is most likely a typo for “clover sprouts.” Broccoli sprouts are the intended ingredient. You can use either one, or omit them entirely.
Do I have to peel the cucumber?
Peeling is recommended for this recipe as it improves the texture and allows the dressing to cling better, but you can leave the skin on if you prefer.
