Sweet Strawberry Avocado Salad

Name: Sweet Strawberry Avocado Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 ripe avocado, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love to make a Sweet Strawberry Avocado Salad when the weather warms up and fresh strawberries are in season. The vibrant colors and refreshing flavors create the perfect dish for picnics, gatherings, or a light lunch. Combining creamy avocado with sweet, juicy strawberries and a hint of lime juice makes every bite a delightful experience. It's a simple recipe that doesn't require any cooking but offers a burst of freshness with each forkful. Trust me, this salad appeals not just to the eyes but also the taste buds!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-13T09:40:55.608Z

When I made this Sweet Strawberry Avocado Salad for the first time, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could come together to create something so delicious. The combination of ripe strawberries and buttery avocados is always a winner in my book. I discovered that using fresh lime juice not only elevates the flavors but also keeps the avocado from browning too quickly.

One tip I’d share is to use the freshest strawberries possible; it makes all the difference. I often switch up the herbs and nuts based on what's in season or available in my pantry. Each twist brings a new flavor sensation to this salad!

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        A refreshing balance of sweetness and creaminess
Colorful and eye-catching for any table
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion

      

Ingredient Spotlight: Strawberries and Avocado

Choosing ripe strawberries is key to maximizing sweetness and flavor in this salad. Look for berries that are bright red, fragrant, and slightly soft to the touch; these will be the juiciest. Avoid any fruits with white or green spots, as they won’t be fully ripe. If fresh strawberries are out of season, you can substitute with frozen ones, but be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the salad.

Avocado adds creamy texture and a rich flavor to the dish, balancing the sweetness of the strawberries. A perfectly ripe avocado will yield slightly to gentle pressure when squeezed. If your avocados are too firm, let them ripen at room temperature for a few days. To speed up the ripening process, place an avocado in a brown paper bag with an apple or banana. This salad benefits from the freshness of avocado, so it's best to add it right before serving.

Perfecting the Dressing

The lime juice not only adds a zesty brightness to the salad but also acts as a natural preservative that helps keep the avocado from browning. Squeeze fresh limes for the best flavor, as bottled lime juice can be overly acidic and lacks the freshness necessary for this dish. Be cautious not to overdo it; start with the juice of one lime and taste before adding more, ensuring the flavors remain balanced.

When seasoning, sprinkle salt and pepper gradually. These enhancements should complement the ingredients without overpowering them. You might also consider adding a drizzle of honey or agave syrup if you prefer a sweeter dressing. If you're avoiding added sugars, opt for a pinch of paprika or cayenne to introduce a touch of heat instead. This can elevate the taste profile and provide a unique twist to your salad.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for a delightful salad!

Salad Ingredients

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 ripe avocado, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix thoroughly and sit for a few minutes to let the flavors meld.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfectly fresh salad!

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, diced avocado, red onion, and chopped cilantro.

Add the Dressing

Squeeze the fresh lime juice over the salad and add salt and pepper to taste.

Toss and Serve

Gently toss all the ingredients together, being careful not to mash the avocado. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your salad immediately for the best flavors.

Pro Tips

Always choose avocados that yield slightly when pressed to ensure they are ripe. If you need to prepare this salad ahead of time, keep the avocado separate until serving to maintain its texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Sweet Strawberry Avocado Salad is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it on a bed of mixed greens or alongside grilled chicken for a heartier meal. Pairing it with a light vinaigrette can also add a different flavor dimension. Consider serving it with whole-grain bread or crackers for added texture and satisfaction during lunch gatherings or picnics.

For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, opt to sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds, such as slivered almonds or sunflower seeds, on top just before serving. These not only add a delightful crunch but also contribute healthy fats and proteins, making the salad more filling and nutritious.

Storage Tips

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to prepare it ahead of time, consider storing the components separately. Store sliced strawberries and diced avocados in airtight containers in the refrigerator, making sure to squeeze a little lime juice over the avocado to help maintain its color. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep the ingredients vibrant and fresh.

If you've made more than you can eat, consider keeping leftovers for the next day. However, note that the avocado may brown and the salad could become watery as the strawberries release their juices. To combat this, you can mix in some extra salad greens or incorporate the leftovers into a smoothie for a nutritious twist, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! This salad is naturally vegan as all the ingredients are plant-based.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

It's best eaten fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to one day. The avocado may brown slightly.

→ What can I use in place of strawberries?

You can substitute with other mixed berries like blueberries or raspberries, which will also taste delightful!

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are great options to boost the protein content.