Fresh Herbed Avocado Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors
• Creamy, crunchy, tangy, and slightly spicy in every bite
• Quick and easy to prepare in under 15 minutes
• Perfect as a light meal, side salad, or appetizer
• Customizable with your favorite herbs or seeds

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Herb-Pepita Mix:

• ½ cup raw pepitas (green pumpkin seeds)
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
• Pinch of salt

Salad:

• ½ cup chopped radish (about 3 medium)
• ½ cup chopped green onion
• ½ cup chopped fresh herbs (cilantro, parsley, basil, dill, or any combination)
• 1 medium jalapeño, seeds and membranes removed, chopped (optional)
• 4 large just-ripe avocados
• ¼ cup lime juice (about 1–2 limes)
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt, plus flaky sea salt for finishing (optional)
• Lime zest, for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the herb-pepita mix: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pepitas with chili powder, olive oil, and a pinch of salt for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly until fragrant. Set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the salad ingredients: Chop radishes, green onions, herbs, and jalapeño. Slice the avocados just before mixing to prevent browning.
3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), and sea salt until well combined.
4. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, gently toss avocado, radishes, green onions, herbs, and jalapeño with the lime dressing. Be careful not to mash the avocado.
5. Top and serve: Sprinkle the toasted pepitas over the salad. Garnish with flaky sea salt and lime zest if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people as a side or 2–3 as a main. Prep time is 10 minutes, total time about 15 minutes.

Variations

• Swap or mix your favorite seeds: sunflower, sesame, or pine nuts work beautifully.
• Replace jalapeño with red chili flakes for a milder heat.
• Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or corn for extra freshness.
• Use flavored olive oil or citrus oils for a unique twist.
• Add crumbled feta or goat cheese for creaminess and tang.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh. Avocado can brown if stored, so keep leftover salad in an airtight container with a squeeze of lime juice for up to 1 day. Do not reheat.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prep the vegetables and pepitas ahead, but toss with avocado and dressing right before serving.

What if I don’t like jalapeño?

Simply omit it or replace with mild green bell pepper for crunch without heat.

Can I use frozen pepitas?

Yes, thaw and pat dry before toasting.

Can I replace lime juice with lemon?

Absolutely lemon juice works well as a substitute.

How do I prevent the avocado from browning?

Toss with lime juice immediately after slicing and serve quickly.

Can I add protein?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make this a heartier salad.

Conclusion

Fresh Herbed Avocado Salad is a bright, creamy, and crunchy dish bursting with flavor. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, it’s perfect for healthy lunches, side dishes, or party appetizers. With the zesty lime dressing, fresh herbs, and toasted pepitas, every bite is refreshing, satisfying, and unforgettable.

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