15-Minute Fresh Jalapeño Avocado Salsa
A vibrant, chunky salsa combining creamy avocado with crisp cucumber, tangy tomatoes, and zesty jalapeños. Fresh cilantro and lime juice brighten every bite, while red onion adds a subtle sharpness. This versatile condiment works perfectly as a dip with chips, a topping for grilled proteins, or a fresh accompaniment to Mexican-inspired dishes. The combination of textures from tender avocado and crunchy vegetables creates a satisfying contrast that enhances any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon cilantro, fresh
- 1 ½ tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon jalapeño peppers, deli-slicedserrano pepper1:1spicy
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- 1 small tomato
- 1 tablespoon red onion
- ½ each avocado
- ½ tablespoon lime juice, fresh
- ¼ cup cucumber
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- 1
Finely dice the cucumber, red onion, tomato and avocado
- 2
Roughly chop the sliced jalapeños
- 3
Add all prepared vegetables to a small mixing bowl and toss to combine
- 4
Roughly chop the cilantro
- 5
Add cilantro, salt, pepper, lime juice and olive oil to the bowl with vegetables
- 6
Mix well to combine
- 7
Taste and adjust seasonings to preference
- 8
Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve
Tips
Dice avocado just before serving to prevent browning and maintain the best texture.
Adjust jalapeño quantity based on heat preference - remove seeds for milder flavor.
For best flavor, let the salsa rest in refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Good to Know
Refrigerate covered for up to 2 days. Best consumed within 24 hours due to avocado.
Can prepare vegetables up to 4 hours ahead, but add avocado and lime juice just before serving.
Serve chilled with tortilla chips, as a topping for tacos, or alongside grilled meats.
Common Mistakes
Add avocado last to avoid browning and mushiness from extended mixing.
Don't over-mix to maintain distinct vegetable pieces and textures.
Substitutions
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FAQ
Can I make this salsa ahead of time?
Prepare all vegetables except avocado up to 4 hours ahead. Add diced avocado and lime juice just before serving to prevent browning and maintain fresh flavor.
How long does this salsa keep in the refrigerator?
Best consumed within 24 hours due to the avocado. It will keep up to 2 days covered in refrigerator, but texture and color may deteriorate.
Can I freeze this salsa?
Not recommended due to the high water content in tomatoes and cucumber, plus avocado doesn't freeze well. The texture will become watery and unappetizing when thawed.