As a child, I remember my mom used to make cucumber salads as dinner side dishes. She would usually either marinate cucumber with olive oil, vinegar, onion slices and salt; or marinate cucumber during the day in ranch dressing and serve with fresh cracked pepper. Both methods were delicious. I still love fresh cucumber salads and enjoying trying different variations. Cucumber salads are easy, affordable and usually healthy. To mix things up a little bit, I’m making a southwestern version featuring avocado and tomatoes!

Cucumber-Avocado Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp high-quality balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• One English cucumber
• 1/2 small onion, diced
• 1 avocado
• 2 medium-sized tomatoes, cut into wedges
• Sea salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste

Directions:  

• In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar and minced garlic. Set aside.
• Peel the cucumber, slice in half long-ways, and cut cucumber into half inch moons. Place cucumber slices into large serving bowl. Add diced onion.
• Cut avocado in half, discard the pit. Carefully cut avocado into half inch chunks, not cutting through skin. Invert avocado skin. Cut out the avocado slices and place into the bowl with cucumber and onions.
• Pour dressing over salad. Slowly stir salad, being careful not to mush avocado.
• Top salad with tomato wedges, salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

Recipe modified from Gaby Dalkin’s book, Absolutely Avocados, c/o

I am excited about the direction Joyfully So is heading! I put a lot of thought into the name, Joyfully So, because I wanted a name that represented faith, happiness and the brand. The name welcomes growth and expansion, but stays true to itself along the way.

The next phase of my life is around the corner as I am in the process of buying a house! Currently I live in an apartment in a fun, young professional part of Dallas. While I love the neighborhood, I am ready for a place that I can call my own.

I am searching for a home that will require a little love and a little updating. I plan on incorporating house renovation progress posts in the rotation of food, fashion and travel posts on Joyfully So. House renovation posts will possibly include kitchen remodel, bathroom upgrades, tiling, lots of painting/staining, floor improvements, a pergola, and of course DIYs and interior decor. There will be before and after comparison photos, and possibly a few videos. The house renovation posts will begin around April or May. Since it is my first home, it will be a big learning process. I hope to share what I learn and invite ALL your insight and knowledge along the way!

Thank you for being a part of this journey with me!

Live your life joyfully so,

Ashley