Dominican Avocado Salad
If you’re looking for a refreshing, simple salad bursting with fresh flavor, this Dominican Avocado Salad is the perfect recipe. With its pop of color and tangy dressing, it’s an ideal light dish that can easily be paired with your favorite protein, like grilled chicken or baked fish, for a more complete meal. The best part? It comes together quickly, using ingredients likely already in your kitchen!
This delicious salad is a great way to experience the flavors of the Dominican Republic. The creamy avocado, fresh lime juice, and crunchy salad greens make it a true standout among Dominican kitchen staples. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or make it the star of the meal, it’s one of those simple recipes that will become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
To make this simple Dominican Avocado Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 medium lime
- 1 clove garlic, smashed
- 2 Tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 bunches watercress, large stems removed
- 1 small ripe tomato, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 small ripe Hass avocado
How To Make Dominican Avocado Salad
- Make the Dressing: In a mason jar or small bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, smashed garlic, chopped cilantro, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk well to combine the simple dressing.
- Assemble the Salad: Layer the watercress (or substitute salad greens) evenly on a large bowl or individual salad plates. Arrange tomato, red onion, and avocado slices on top of the salad.
- Drizzle the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad, tossing gently to coat the ingredients evenly. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Dominican Avocado Salad
Ingredients
Method
- 1. Combine olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, oregano, salt, and pepper in a jar and shake well to make the dressing.
- 2. Place watercress on salad plates and top with tomato, onion, and avocado. Drizzle dressing on top.
Nutrition
Video
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Storage Tips
If you have leftovers (though it’s best enjoyed fresh), store the salad without the dressing or avocado in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep the dressing in a separate jar and toss it with the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.
Tips for Success
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh lime juice, ripe Hass avocados, and crisp greens like watercress or spinach will elevate the flavors of this salad.
- Add Crunch: If you’re looking for extra texture, top the salad with crunchy elements like tortilla chips, plantain chips, or even toasted pumpkin seeds.
- Extra Veggies: You can easily switch things up by adding some diced bell pepper or green onions for a bit of extra flavor and color.
- Protein Boost: For a more substantial meal, serve the salad with sliced grilled chicken, shrimp, or fish. The dressing pairs perfectly with any protein.
Substitutions and Variations
- Watercress: If watercress isn’t available, you can substitute it with other salad greens such as arugula, spinach, or even romaine lettuce.
- Dressing Variations: While the lime-based dressing is traditional, you can switch it up by using apple cider vinegar or white vinegar for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Tomatoes: Feel free to experiment with different tomato varieties like grape tomatoes or heirloom for even more vibrant flavors.
The recipe comes from Tiny House Cooking: 175+ Recipes Designed to Create Big Flavor in a Small Space, where each recipe has been designed to serve two.
Last Bite
Leave a comment below and share how you’d tweak this Dominican Avocado Salad—extra lime, more onion, or keep it just as is.
I usually purchase my ensalada aguacate (avocado salad) from my local Dominican store/take out.
I stumbled on this recipe and am excited to try this! I like the suggestion of adding a protein. I love watercress and always have it at the ready, but I will mix it w/salad greens for additional color, flavor and nutrients. This is a WIN for me (and family)!
I love the combination of foods in your recipe! I love the avocado placed on top in the picture, it makes it look especially appetizing. I might sprinkle some sweet spiced pecans on top…I find that the crunchiness as well as the delicious taste is amazing.