Avocados are one of nature’s most delicious gifts to human beings because they taste great and have the added benefit of being good for you and good for the planet. They’re cholesterol free, sodium free and low in saturated fat, which means we can indulge without feeling guilty. And avocado orchards inhibit erosion, stabilize soil and prevent flooding – not too shabby for such a humble looking fruit! But let’s go back to talking about how great avocados taste. Their smooth, creamy texture and cool, slightly sweet flavor make them a natural addition to salads of all varieties. I especially like the combination of avocado, cilantro and lime that you usually find in guacamole so here’s a salad that plays with those familiar flavors but adds in the unexpected surprise of mint.
AVOCADO CHOP SALAD
20 cherry tomatoes, halved if small, quartered if large
1/2 cup diced seedless cucumber
1 small red onion, finely diced
1/2 cup chopped or shredded baby spinach
2 Hass avocados, diced into bite size pieces
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
1/4 cup chopped mint
2 teaspoons Ancho chile powder
1 teaspoon crushed garlic
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
juice of 1 or 2 limes
1 tablespoon olive oil
Place tomatoes, cucumber, onion, spinach, avocados, cilantro and mint in a large bowl.
Whisk together the remaining ingredients and pour over the salad.
Gently combine with a large spoon until the salad is coated with the dressing. Take care not to smoosh the avocado pieces.
Serve immediately.
Serves 2 well or 4 as a side salad.
Revel & Feast 