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This is the archived version of the Milk Street website and is no longer up to date.

Please visit 177milkstreet.com to see the current website with all of the latest recipes!

Avocado, Pineapple and Arugula Salad with Fresh Chili and Lime

6 to 8 Servings

30 minutes

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This bright, beautifully balanced salad of creamy avocado, fruity pineapple and peppery greens is our version of Cuban ensalada de aguacate, berro y piña, a dish we first learned about from Cuba-born Maricel Presilla, chef, food historian and author of the encyclopedic cookbook “Gran Cocina Latina.” In our recipe, we use both lime zest and juice for citrusy notes, plus white vinegar for an extra shot of acidity. Steeping the sliced red onion and grated garlic in the vinegar for a few minutes mellows their bite so their flavors don’t dominate. For efficiency, you can use that time to prep other ingredients. And for ease, purchase an already peeled and cored pineapple from the refrigerator case in the produce section of the supermarket, but be sure to drain the pineapple of any juice and pat it dry, as extra moisture will dilute the flavors and turn the salad soggy. We think a little chili heat is a nice counterpoint to the sweet-sour pineapple and rich avocado, but if you wish to minimize the spiciness, seed the chili before slicing it. This salad is an excellent accompaniment to Cuban-style meatloaf or grilled or roasted meats, poultry or seafood of just about any kind.

6 to 8

Servings

Tip

Don’t make the salad in advance of serving. It’s best served right away, while the arugula is perky, before the pineapple begins to release some of its juices and before the avocado begins to darken.

30 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1

    small red onion, halved and thinly sliced

  • 1

    medium garlic clove, finely grated

Directions

Reviews
CARMEN N.
December 24, 2025
Wonderful salad
A beautiful and surprising salad. It goes very well with grilled meat, and is also especially uplifting in the winter months, when I crave brightness (in color and flavor). Don't skip the smoked paprika in the dressing: it's a subtle but delicious flavor note.
Evelyn S.
January 10, 2025
PERFECTION!
I made this salad for a dinner party and the entire bowl of salad was GONE. When does that happen?? Easy to make and very delicious!
Julie R.
April 1, 2024
Sweet, spicy and tart-perfect!
We love this salad and it is part of our regular rotation. I have found that I can make the pineapple mixture and onions separately, and they keep just fine for a second meal. In fact, the pineapple just gets juicier and deeper in flavor. Delicious!!!!
Jennifer B.
November 24, 2023
Have to eat all at once
Good salad, but it has to be eaten in one sitting. I liked the combo of jalapeno and pineapple.

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