Blood Orange Avocado Salad is a refreshing delight that transforms any meal into a bright and flavorful experience. This salad combines the creaminess of ripe avocados with the unique sweetness of blood oranges, creating a beautiful dish that’s perfect for summer. Not only does it burst with color, but it also offers a variety of health benefits thanks to its vibrant ingredients. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make recipe that will surely impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Blood Orange Avocado Salad

This Blood Orange Avocado Salad is not just visually appealing; it’s also packed with nutrients that make it a fantastic choice for any meal. Here are a few reasons to love it:

Rich in healthy fats from avocados, promoting heart health.
High in vitamins A and C from blood oranges, boosting immunity.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile as a side dish or a light main course.
Uses simple ingredients that are often already in your pantry.
A great way to incorporate more fruits into your diet.
Can be made gluten-free and vegan, fitting various dietary needs.
Refreshing and satisfying, ideal for summer gatherings.

Ingredients for Blood Orange Avocado Salad

Gather these items:

2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
2 ripe avocados, sliced
2 blood oranges, peeled and segmented
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Blood Orange Avocado Salad Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 2: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced avocados, blood orange segments, and red onion.
Step 3: If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped nuts over the top.
Step 4: Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the ingredients are coated without mashing the avocado.
Step 5: Serve the Blood Orange Avocado Salad immediately, garnished with extra nuts or feta if desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Blood Orange Avocado Salad

Keep these in mind:

Choose ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture.
Use freshly squeezed blood orange juice in the dressing for added brightness.
Mix the salad just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting.

Best Ways to Serve Blood Orange Avocado Salad

This Blood Orange Avocado Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. It also makes an excellent side dish for summer barbecues or picnics. Consider serving it alongside a light pasta dish or with crusty bread for a complete dining experience.

How to Store and Reheat Blood Orange Avocado Salad

To store, keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it can last for up to two days. If you plan to meal prep, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving to maintain the freshness of your ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions About Blood Orange Avocado Salad

What’s the secret to perfect Blood Orange Avocado Salad?

Use ripe avocados and fresh blood oranges for the best flavor. The balance of sweetness from the oranges and creaminess from the avocados is key to this refreshing salad.

Can I make Blood Orange Avocado Salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to mix the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Blood Orange Avocado Salad?

Avoid over-mixing the salad to keep the avocado slices intact. Also, be careful not to dress the salad too early, as this can make it soggy.

Variations of Blood Orange Avocado Salad You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with this salad! Add grilled shrimp for a protein boost, or incorporate other citrus fruits like grapefruit for a unique twist. For a heartier version, consider adding quinoa or farro, making it a complete meal. You can also try a Citrus Avocado Salad with different dressings to suit your taste.

For more delicious salad recipes, check out our Chickpea Avocado Salad or Cranberry Orange Pancakes. You might also enjoy our Creamy Potato Salad for a classic side dish.

Blood Orange Avocado Salad: A Refreshing Delight

Author: basmer
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

Blood Orange Avocado Salad: A Refreshing Delight

Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced avocados, blood orange segments, and red onion.
If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped nuts over the top.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the ingredients are coated without mashing the avocado.
Serve the Blood Orange Avocado Salad immediately, garnished with extra nuts or feta if desired.