keto Avocado & Tomato Salad

This Avocado & Tomato Salad is a light, refreshing, and nutrient-dense breakfast or side dish that’s perfect for anyone on a keto diet. Packed with healthy fats from avocado and antioxidants from cherry tomatoes, it’s a quick and easy recipe that takes just minutes to prepare. The combination of creamy avocado and juicy tomatoes with a hint of lemon and olive oil creates a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb option to start your day or a simple dish to complement your meals, this salad is an excellent choice.

Ingredients:

• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt & pepper
• Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Avocado:
   Start by cutting the avocado in half. Use a knife to carefully slice around the pit. Twist the two halves in opposite directions to separate them. Remove the pit by gently tapping it with a knife, then twist and lift it out. Scoop the flesh out of the avocado with a spoon and place it on a cutting board. Dice the avocado into small cubes, roughly ½-inch in size. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Cherry Tomatoes:
   Rinse the cherry tomatoes under cold water. Cut each tomato in half with a sharp knife and set aside in a mixing bowl.
3. Combine Avocado and Tomatoes:
   Add the diced avocado to the bowl with the halved cherry tomatoes. Gently toss the ingredients together to combine. Be careful not to mash the avocado while mixing.
4. Drizzle with Olive Oil and Lemon Juice:
   Pour 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice over the avocado and tomato mixture. This will add flavor and help prevent the avocado from browning.
5. Season with Salt & Pepper:
   Sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference, remembering that avocados benefit from a good amount of salt to enhance their flavor.
6. Optional: Add Fresh Herbs:
   If using, chop a small handful of fresh cilantro or parsley and sprinkle it over the salad. This adds an aromatic freshness and a pop of green color.
7. Serve Immediately:
   Gently toss the salad once more to evenly coat everything in the dressing and seasoning. Serve the salad immediately for the best texture and flavor. Enjoy it on its own, or as a side dish to complement other keto-friendly meals.

Tips for the Perfect Avocado & Tomato Salad

1. Choose ripe avocados: Make sure your avocado is ripe but firm. Gently squeeze it; it should yield slightly to pressure. Overripe avocados can be too mushy for this salad.
2. Prevent browning: If you’re not serving the salad immediately, toss the diced avocado in lemon juice before mixing it with the tomatoes. This helps slow down the browning process.
3. Add extras for flavor: For a twist, you can add crumbled feta cheese, sliced red onions, or even a handful of arugula to give the salad more variety and taste.
4. Serve chilled: For an extra refreshing experience, refrigerate the salad for 15-20 minutes before serving. This helps enhance the flavors, especially on a warm day.
5. Avoid overmixing: When combining the ingredients, toss gently to avoid mashing the avocado. You want the pieces to hold their shape for the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: It’s best to make and serve the salad fresh to avoid the avocado turning brown. If you need to prep ahead, store the diced tomatoes and avocado separately, and mix them with the dressing just before serving.

Q: What can I add to this salad for more protein?
A: For a protein boost, try adding hard-boiled eggs, grilled tofu, or some crumbled cheese like feta or goat cheese.

Q: Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
A: Yes! If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, you can use regular tomatoes. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and remove some of the seeds if they’re too watery.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Keep in mind that the avocado may start to brown, but it will still be edible.

Q: Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
A: While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.

This Avocado & Tomato Salad is a versatile, quick, and delicious addition to your keto menu. The vibrant flavors of ripe avocado and juicy tomatoes are enhanced by a simple lemon and olive oil dressing, making it a perfect option for any meal of the day. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can create a wholesome, low-carb dish that will satisfy your taste buds without breaking your diet. Give this easy recipe a try and enjoy a refreshing, healthy salad in minutes!