Winter brings some of the most vibrant and flavorful citrus fruits of the year, making it the perfect time to enjoy a refreshing yet satisfying salad. This Winter Citrus and Avocado Salad combines the bright acidity of blood oranges and grapefruit with the creamy richness of avocado, all tossed with peppery arugula and a zesty citrus vinaigrette. It is light yet nourishing, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome lunch or an elegant starter for dinner. Whether you are looking to impress guests or treat yourself to a gourmet salad at home, this dish delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Servings
This recipe makes 4 servings as a starter or 2 servings as a light meal.
Macros (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 7g
- Fat: 16g
- Sugar: 10g
Health Benefits of Each Ingredient
- Blood Oranges & Grapefruit: Rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, citrus fruits help boost immunity, support skin health, and improve digestion.
- Avocado: Packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and potassium, avocado promotes brain function and keeps you full longer.
- Arugula: This leafy green is high in vitamin K, calcium, and folate, supporting bone health and reducing inflammation.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A staple of the Mediterranean diet, olive oil contains powerful anti-inflammatory compounds and promotes heart health.
- Honey: Provides natural sweetness and contains antibacterial properties, making it a healthier alternative to refined sugar.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds depth to the vinaigrette while also being rich in selenium, which supports a healthy metabolism.
- Shallot: Offers mild sweetness with a subtle onion flavor and contains sulfur compounds that support immune function.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 blood oranges, peeled and sliced into rounds
- 1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 4 cups fresh arugula
- 2 tbsp toasted almonds or pistachios (optional, for crunch)
For the Citrus Vinaigrette:
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh citrus juice (from blood orange or grapefruit)
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 small shallot, finely minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients
- Peel and slice the blood oranges into thin rounds.
- Peel the grapefruit, removing the white pith, and cut into segments.
- Slice the avocado just before assembling the salad to prevent browning.
- Finely mince the shallot for the vinaigrette.
- Make the Citrus Vinaigrette
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, fresh citrus juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced shallot.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Let the vinaigrette sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Assemble the Salad
- Arrange the arugula on a serving platter or in a large bowl.
- Layer the blood orange slices and grapefruit segments over the greens.
- Gently place the sliced avocado on top.
- Sprinkle with toasted almonds or pistachios if using.
- Dress and Serve
- Drizzle the citrus vinaigrette over the salad just before serving.
- Toss lightly to coat or serve with the dressing on the side for guests to add as desired.
- Enjoy immediately while the ingredients are fresh and vibrant.
Recommended Pairings
Wine Pairings:
- Sauvignon Blanc – Crisp and citrusy, this wine enhances the fresh flavors of the salad.
- Chenin Blanc – Its balanced acidity and fruity notes complement the citrus and avocado beautifully.
Beer Pairings:
- Belgian Witbier – A light, citrus-infused wheat beer that pairs well with the fruit and vinaigrette.
- Pale Ale – Offers mild bitterness that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the citrus.
Cocktail Pairings:
- Grapefruit Gin Fizz – Gin, fresh grapefruit juice, and soda water create a refreshing match for the salad.
- Blood Orange Margarita – The citrus-forward flavors of this tequila cocktail enhance the dish’s bright notes.
Non-Alcoholic Options:
- Sparkling Water with Citrus Slices – Try blood orange slices with a sprig of rosemary for an elegant touch.
- Hibiscus Iced Tea with Honey – A tart and slightly floral tea that complements the fruit in the salad.
- Ginger-Lime Sparkler – Club soda with a splash of fresh lime and grated ginger adds a refreshing zing.
This Winter Citrus and Avocado Salad is a simple yet refined dish that highlights the best seasonal produce. Whether served as a light meal or an elegant starter, it is a refreshing way to brighten up winter days. Pair it with your favorite beverage, and enjoy a restaurant-worthy salad at home!