Save This bright and refreshing salad combines juicy citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and clementines with creamy avocado and crunchy toasted nuts. Fresh baby greens provide a crisp base, while a zesty dressing of olive oil, lemon, and orange juice brings it all together. Perfectly balanced with sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors, it’s an easy way to add color and freshness to any meal. Ready in 15 minutes, this vibrant dish suits vegetarian and gluten-free lifestyles and pairs well with light wines for a delightful dining experience.
I still remember the first time I tossed together this vibrant citrus salad on a sunny afternoon, the fresh scents immediately lifting my spirits and sparking my love for bright, simple flavors.
One afternoon, unexpected guests dropped by right as I finished this salad, and watching them light up after their first bite reminded me how food can turn moments into memories.
Ingredients
- Citrus Fruits: I always select the freshest oranges and grapefruits I can find, peeling carefully to remove the bitter pith which keeps the salad bright but never bitter
- Avocado: Ripe and buttery, it melts into the salad like a creamy surprise
- Baby Greens: I like a mix with peppery arugula paired with tender spinach for a varied texture
- Red Onion: Thin slices add just the right touch of sharpness without overpowering
- Toasted Pecans or Walnuts: Toasting brings out deeper flavor and a satisfying crunch
- Dressing Ingredients: Fresh lemon and orange juices form the bright base, while a little honey and Dijon mustard add depth and subtle sweetness
Instructions
- Get Everything Ready:
- Start by peeling your citrus fruits with care, removing as much of the white pith as you can to keep the flavor fresh and bright. Segment and slice them as the recipe suggests, letting those vibrant colors shine.
- Mix the Dressing:
- Whisk together the olive oil, lemon and orange juices, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Watch as it thickens slightly and aromas of citrus and mustard fill your kitchen air.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Lay a bed of the mixed baby greens on a large platter or bowl, then artfully arrange your citrus slices and segments across the top. Add the creamy avocado slices and sprinkle thinly sliced red onion where they can peek through.
- Dress and Crunch:
- Drizzle the dressing evenly, watching the glossy shine enhance all the colors. Finish it off with a generous sprinkle of toasted nuts, their crunch adding the perfect contrast to the tender fruit and greens.
- Serve Immediately:
- This salad tastes best fresh, so gather your friends or family and enjoy right away while everything feels crisp and lively.
Save Over time, this salad became more than just a meal—it was the highlight at family brunches, a symbol of effortless freshness, and a reminder that simple ingredients can bring joy to any gathering.
Keeping It Fresh
To keep your salad vibrant when making ahead, store citrus and avocado separately from the greens and nuts. Dress just before serving to maintain crisp textures and bright flavors that sing.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
I love pairing this citrus salad with grilled chicken or fresh seafood for a light, elegant meal. It also makes a beautiful side for weekend potlucks where its colors always steal the show.
When You’re Missing Something
If you’re missing some ingredients, feel free to substitute nuts with seeds or switch citrus varieties based on what’s fresh in your market.
- Always toast your nuts or seeds for best flavor
- Don’t be shy with the citrus juices in the dressing for extra brightness
- Keep your knife sharp when peeling to avoid bruising the fruit
Save Thanks for stopping by the kitchen—hope this salad brings a little brightness and warmth to your table whenever you make it.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute the nuts in this salad?
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Yes, toasted pecans or walnuts can be replaced with pistachios or almonds for a different crunch and flavor.
- → How do I prepare the citrus fruits for this dish?
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Peel the citrus fruits carefully, removing most of the pith, then slice or segment as needed to keep the vibrant texture.
- → What dressing ingredients are used to enhance the flavors?
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A simple dressing made with extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon and orange juice, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper adds a bright, balanced taste.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegan diets?
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Yes, simply use maple syrup instead of honey to keep it fully plant-based.
- → What greens work best as the base for this salad?
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Mixed baby greens such as arugula, spinach, or kale create a tender, fresh foundation that complements the citrus and avocado.
- → Can I add cheese to this salad?
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Adding crumbled goat cheese or feta enhances creaminess and gives a pleasant tang that pairs well with the citrus.
