summer salad with avocado cilantro everything dressing

Inspiration hits when you're hungry. I'm talking "raid the fridge and throw together what works" hungry. Thus, the existence of this salad. You can add any combo you want but make it around the Avocado Cilantro Everything Dressing. You won't be sorry.

This salad emerged one day out of pure hunger and desperation. I opened the fridge and knew I needed something fast but fresh and healthy otherwise I was going to stand at the counter and eat hummus and pita chips. Don't judge but that definitely happens around here sometimes. I had just got through making the Avocado Cilantro Everything Sauce (it's acronym is ACES which is so apropos) and wanted to incorporate that into my lunch because i had been putting it on pretty much everything including this and this and was in the groove if you get what I mean. Priorities. Plus, it lasts a good week or so. Did I mention this sauce is great on tacos?

Back to the open fridge. I always have arugula, red pepper, and cherry or grape tomatoes in my fridge along with these almonds that I can't get enough of. Feta is a must so that means cucumbers because this is feeling somewhat Mediterranean which should come as no surprise. And I might throw in some chicken if I have it —if you're getting the feeling that the ingredients in this salad are staples in my fridge, you'd be right. Of course, if ACES isn't for you because you aren't a fan of avocado or cilantro, feel free to check out Salad Dressing 101 to whip up something more to your liking.

What is your favorite from the fridge salad? Do share!

TIPS

For a crowd:

Make a salad bar for a light dinner or hearty lunch! Mix up a double batch of "ACES" and have some chicken on hand ready to go. Arrange individual bowls of all the ingredients and let your guests load up a lovely bowl of all their favorite ingredients.

For a few:

raid your own fridge and see what you come up with. Top it with a batch of "ACES" or your favorite dressing.