Ingredients

Scale

(Serves 4)

Salad base:

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 large heirloom tomatoes, chopped)
1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced or diced (about 2 cups—you want crisp freshness!)
1 ripe avocado, diced
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced (soak in cold water 10 min to mellow bite)
Optional boosts:
→ High-protein: ½ cup chickpeas or grilled chicken (+7g protein/serving)
→ Extra crunch: 2 tbsp toasted pepitas or hemp seeds (you love nuts!)

Lemon-herb dressing:

3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (you love citrus!)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
Salt & black pepper to taste

Garnish:

Extra fresh herbs
Flaky sea salt
Optional: Crumbled feta cheese (use reduced-sodium—you love low-sodium options!)

Instructions

1. Prep veggies:

Soak red onion in cold water 10 minutes; drain well. Dice avocado just before assembling to prevent browning.

2. Make dressing:

Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

3. Toss & serve:

In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, and drained red onion. Pour dressing over; toss gently. Top with herbs, flaky salt, and optional feta.

💡 Pro Tips for Perfection:
✅ Use English cucumber—fewer seeds + thinner skin = better texture.
✅ Dice avocado last—prevents mushiness and browning.
✅ Low-sodium mastery (you love this!):
→ Skip added salt—rely on lemon, mustard, and herbs for brightness
→ Use no-salt-added feta or omit entirely
✅ Blood sugar friendly (you love this!):
→ Naturally zero-glycemic—no added sugars!
→ Add 1 tbsp chia seeds to dressing for fiber + glycemic control
✅ Low-carb/keto option (you love this!):
→ Already compliant! <8g net carbs/serving
→ Increase healthy fats: extra olive oil + avocado slices
✅ Make ahead:
→ Chop tomatoes/cucumber 4 hours ahead (store separately)
→ Assemble within 30 minutes of serving for best texture

Storage & Serving Ideas

→ Fridge life: Best served fresh (avocado softens slightly over time).
→ Serving ideas:
→ Alongside grilled fish or chicken
→ As a standalone light lunch with crusty bread
→ Scooped into lettuce cups for low-carb meal

Prep Time & Nutrition (per serving):