Guava, Cucumber & Avocado Salad
A refreshing, crunchy, and creamy salad that brings together sweet guava, cool cucumber, and buttery avocado. Tossed with a zesty lime dressing and a hint of chili, it's a vibrant tropical side that's ready in 15 minutes.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~10 min
Prep the fruits and vegetables.
1.Wash and dice the guavas into 1-inch cubes. Leave the skin on for texture and color.2.Dice the cucumber into similar-sized cubes. No need to peel if using English cucumber.3.Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and dice the flesh into cubes.4.Thinly slice the red onion.5.Roughly chop the fresh cilantro.TIPChoose guavas that are ripe but firm — they should yield slightly to pressure but not be mushy. - mix · ~2 min
Make the dressing.
1.In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and red chili powder.2.Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.TIPWhisk vigorously until the dressing emulsifies and looks slightly creamy. - assemble · ~2 min
Toss the salad together.
1.In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the diced guava, cucumber, avocado, sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro.2.Drizzle the dressing over the top.3.Using your hands or two large spoons, gently toss everything together until well coated. Be careful not to mash the avocado.TIPToss with a light hand — the avocado bruises easily and the salad looks best when the cubes hold their shape. - serve
Serve immediately.
Transfer the salad to a serving bowl. It's best enjoyed fresh, as the avocado and guava are at their peak texture right after tossing.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choose guavas that yield slightly to pressure but are not mushy for the best texture.
- 2If your avocado is very ripe, cube it last and fold in gently to avoid mashing.
- 3For extra crunch, use an English cucumber and leave the skin on.
- 4Slice the red onion paper-thin so it doesn't overpower the delicate fruit.
- 5Toss the salad with your hands for the most even coating and control over the avocado.
- 6This salad does not hold well overnight — serve within an hour of dressing for best texture.
Adapt it for your goals.
Extra-protein
Add 1/2 cup of cooked black beans or crumbled cotija cheese for a more filling salad that works as a light lunch.
mango swapMango-swap
Replace the guava with ripe but firm mango for a classic tropical spin with a sweeter, less floral flavor.
low oilLow-oil
Omit the olive oil and use only lime juice and seasonings — the avocado's natural fat provides enough richness.
spicy herbSpicy-herb
Add 1 finely minced serrano or jalapeño pepper and swap half the cilantro for mint for a more complex, punchy herb profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Guava is one of the most vitamin C-dense fruits, supporting immune health and collagen production.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Avocado provides monounsaturated fats that help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and support nutrient absorption.
Low in Calories
This salad is naturally low-calorie and full of water-rich vegetables, making it a hydrating, light option.
Good Source of Fiber
Both guava and avocado contribute dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and satiety.
Frequently asked questions
It's best served immediately, but you can prep the chopped guava, cucumber, and dressing up to 4 hours ahead. Add the avocado and toss just before serving.
