Grilled Avocado & Tomato Salad
Why Grilled Avocado & Tomato Salad?
Avocado and tomato are a classic pairing, but grilling them adds a whole new layer of flavor. The heat from the grill caramelizes the natural sugars in the tomatoes and gives the avocados a slight smoky taste that’s absolutely irresistible. Combined with a simple dressing and fresh herbs, this salad is refreshing, healthy, and packed with flavor. It’s a great way to switch up your usual salad routine and make the most of those summer veggies.
Grilling soft ingredients like avocados and tomatoes can be a bit tricky because they tend to stick or fall apart. That’s where the Braize Large Grill Basket comes in handy.
I love using this basket for delicate ingredients because it keeps everything secure and intact, while the open design allows for that delicious smoky flavor to infuse the veggies.
Other Basket Options:
Braize Adjustable Grill Basket
Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Grill Basket
Grilled Avocado & Tomato Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
- 4 medium tomatoes, halved (Roma or vine-ripened are great choices)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for brushing
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or cilantro leaves, for garnish
Directions:
Grilling the Avocados and Tomatoes
Start by brushing the cut sides of the avocados and tomatoes with a little olive oil. This helps to prevent sticking and enhances the grill marks. Place the avocados and tomatoes cut side down in the Braize Large Grill Basket, ensuring they’re secure. Set the basket on the grill over medium heat.
Grill the tomatoes for about 3-4 minutes until they’re slightly softened and have beautiful grill marks. The avocados will need a bit less time, about 2-3 minutes, just until they’re warmed through and have light grill marks. You want the avocados to be warm but not too soft, so they maintain their shape in the salad.
Making the Dressing
While the avocados and tomatoes are grilling, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This simple dressing complements the smoky grilled flavors and adds a bright, tangy finish to the salad.
Assembling the Salad
Once the avocados and tomatoes are grilled to perfection, carefully remove them from the basket and let them cool slightly. Slice the grilled avocado halves into thick slices and the tomatoes into quarters. Arrange them on a serving platter or individual plates.
Scatter the thinly sliced red onion over the grilled avocados and tomatoes. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, ensuring everything is well coated. Garnish with fresh basil or cilantro leaves for a burst of color and added freshness.
The first time I made this salad, I was blown away by how the simple act of grilling could transform the flavors of avocado and tomato. The smoky, charred taste combined with the fresh lime dressing makes this salad an absolute standout. It’s now a regular on my summer menu, and I’m sure it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen too!
Serving Suggestions
This Grilled Avocado & Tomato Salad is fantastic as a light lunch or side dish, especially alongside grilled meats or seafood. It’s also a great addition to a BBQ spread or as a topping for grilled bread for a delicious bruschetta-style appetizer. Serve it with some crusty bread or a side of quinoa for a more filling meal.
FAQs
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Can I use different types of tomatoes for this recipe?
- Absolutely! Heirloom tomatoes or cherry tomatoes would also work well and add a variety of colors and flavors.
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What if my avocados are too soft?
- Choose firmer avocados for grilling to ensure they hold their shape. If they’re too soft, you can skip the grilling step and simply add them fresh to the salad.
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How can I add more protein to this salad?
- Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas would be great additions to make this salad more filling.
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Can I make this salad ahead of time?
- It’s best to grill the avocados and tomatoes just before serving to maintain their texture, but you can prep the dressing and other ingredients in advance.
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What other dressings could I use for this salad?
- A balsamic vinaigrette or a creamy avocado dressing would also pair nicely with the grilled veggies.
Ready to try something new on the grill?
Grilled Avocado & Tomato Salad is a refreshing and unique dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a few simple ingredients and the right tools, you can create a salad that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Give this Grilled Avocado & Tomato Salad a try and share your creations with us on social media @CookingWithBraize. We can’t wait to see how you make this salad your own!