Guava, Cucumber & Avocado Salad
A surprisingly delicious and hydrating salad, this recipe combines the tropical sweetness of guava with crisp cucumber and creamy avocado, all brightened by a zesty lime-mint dressing.
For 3 servings
Wash the guavas thoroughly. Cut each guava in half, and if desired, scoop out the seedy core using a spoon for a smoother texture. Dice the guava flesh into approximately 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Wash the cucumber. If using a regular cucumber, you may peel it; for English or Persian cucumbers, peeling is optional. Halve the cucumber lengthwise, and if the seeds are large, scoop them out. Dice the cucumber into 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) pieces and add to the bowl with the guava.
Halve the avocado, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh. Dice the avocado into 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) pieces. Gently add the diced avocado to the bowl with the other ingredients to prevent bruising.
Wash and finely chop the fresh mint leaves. Add the chopped mint to the bowl with the guava, cucumber, and avocado.
Prepare the dressing: In a small separate bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. If you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing, whisk in the optional honey or agave nectar.
Pour the prepared dressing over the diced fruits and vegetables in the large mixing bowl. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss all the ingredients together until they are well coated with the dressing.
Serve the Guava, Cucumber & Avocado Salad immediately to enjoy its freshest flavors and textures. This salad is best consumed shortly after preparation.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Guava Selection: Choose guavas that are ripe but still firm to the touch, with a fragrant aroma. Avoid guavas that are overly soft or have significant blemishes.
- 2Preventing Avocado Browning: To keep the avocado from browning, dice it last and toss it immediately with a small amount of the lime juice before adding it to the rest of the salad.
- 3Chilling for Crispness: For an even more refreshing experience, chill the diced guava and cucumber in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before combining them with the avocado and dressing.
- 4Gentle Handling: Avocado is delicate. Use a light hand when tossing the salad to ensure the avocado pieces remain intact and don't get mashed.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add grilled shrimp, crumbled feta cheese, or toasted pecans for an extra layer of protein and a delightful textural contrast.
Tropical TwistTropical Twist
Incorporate other tropical fruits like diced mango, pineapple, or jicama for additional sweetness, crunch, and vibrant color.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Introduce finely diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes into the dressing for a subtle, invigorating heat that complements the sweet and tangy notes.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Guava is an exceptional source of Vitamin C, which is crucial for boosting the immune system, promoting healthy skin, and acting as a powerful antioxidant.
Healthy Fats for Heart Health
Avocado provides monounsaturated fats, known to be beneficial for heart health, reducing bad cholesterol levels, and aiding in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Hydration and Digestive Support
Cucumber, with its high water content, contributes significantly to hydration, while both guava and cucumber offer dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and gut regularity.
Frequently asked questions
This salad is best enjoyed fresh. Avocado tends to brown quickly once cut, and the salad can become watery if dressed too far in advance. If you need to prep ahead, keep the diced ingredients separate and prepare the dressing. Combine and toss just before serving.
