Orange Salad with avocado, walnuts, raising, and a citrus vinaigrette is a simple yet scrumptious salad brimming with refreshing orange flavor, and crunchy texture.
This citrusy orange salad is not only jammed with delectable flavors but is also packed with nutrients and vitamins, which makes it a wonderful meal.
Plus, the juicy, sweet, and tangy taste of orange can boost up the flavors, with a bright and vibrant color that adds a pop of cheer to any plate.
Engage all your senses during food preparation to create a holistic culinary experience.
Table of contents
If you’re looking for a new salad recipe, or want to add a refreshing and healthy salad to your meal plan, then this gorgeous orange salad is for you.
About Orange Salad
Made with juicy oranges, avocados, sweet pomegranate arils, crunchy red onions, and walnuts, is served on a bed of greens, and topped with a citrus vinaigrette, this salad is everything you need in a delicious meal.
This orange salad is a great choice for you if you are looking for delicious ways to incorporate more fresh fruits and vegetables into your diet.
The refreshingly tart, sweet, and juicy oranges are the spotlight of this salad recipe. Oranges can jazz up the flavors and add some pretty color to any savory or sweet recipes. That’s why I love using fresh oranges in my dishes other than making orange salad, orange juice, or orange smoothies I like to add it to baked goodies such as this orange prune loaf, oat orange muffins, or orange olive oil muffins.
Not only oranges are delicious, but they are also packed with vitamin C and other nutrients including calcium, potassium, and thiamine.
A good salad needs a good dressing because a good salad is never complete without a dressing, and this orange salad is no exception.
The dressing I have used for this orange salad is orange vinaigrette which beautifully complements the flavors of the other ingredients without overwhelming them.
For this orange salad recipe, I made a simple orange vinaigrette prepared with olive oil, vinegar, and honey, mustard, and flavored this dressing with chili flakes, and ground pepper.
With its striking flavors, shining colors, and nourishing ingredients, this orange salad is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. So what are you waiting for? Give this easy salad a try and see how it can freshen up your meal.
This orange salad
✓ makes a quick and easy meal
✓ is refreshing and revitalizing
✓ is a great way to enjoy your veggies
✓ is delicious & healthy
✓ is simple & easy to make
✓ is packed with essential vitamins including vitamin C & minerals
✓ can also be served at get-togethers
✓ is a versatile salad
✓ is a healthy lunch option
✓ is flavorful and nutritious
✓ keeps the skin youthful and radiant
Orange Salad Ingredients
This Orange salad is a delicious and healthy salad made using some basic ingredients. These ingredients are:
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Oranges: They are a key ingredient in this recipe. Not only do they add color to this salad, but also the taste of this salad depends entirely upon the type of oranges you’ve used. So make sure to use the juiciest and freshest oranges for making this salad.
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Greens: To add a satisfying crunch, I have used mixed green leaves for making this salad. You can use other leafy greens, such as lettuce, kale, baby spinach, or arugula.
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Other vegetables & fruits: Other than oranges, I have used soft and buttery avocado, sweet gems like pomegranate pearls, and crunchy and pungent red onions. You can also add other vegetables and fruits such as mandarins, sliced radishes, or roasted beets.
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Nuts: For extra texture and flavor, I have used walnuts in this fresh salad. Adding nuts makes this salad nutritious with healthy fats and protein. You can add other nuts like almonds, or pecans.
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Raisins: For natural sweetness, I have added raisins. You can also add dried cranberries or apricots.
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Dressing: I have made a flavorful orange dressing using orange juice, orange zest, olive oil, vinegar, honey, mustard, ground black pepper, red pepper flakes, and salt.
Love exploring different salads? Then we have many options for you. If you are into berries, you can try out our refreshing Strawberry Salad, or if you love using beans then you would really enjoy this Avocado Salad, kidney bean salad, Chickpea Salad or Greek Style Chickpea Salad Recipe. If you prefer fruity salads then Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad, and Fruits and Vegetables Fiesta Salad are for you.
Variations
Like any other salad, this orange salad is also an adaptable dish that can be tailor-made. Below are some exotic salad variations you can try while making an orange salad:
- Other Citrus Fruits: I have used oranges in this salad. Instead of just using oranges, you can also use other citrus fruits such as mandarins, grapefruit, clementine, or blood oranges to the salad.
Rather than using just 1 orange, you can also use a mix of 2-3 citrus fruits. A combination of citrus fruits would undoubtedly add more flavor and hue to this salad.
- Protein-Rich Salad: You can also consider adding some sort of protein to add more texture and flavor and to make it more filler and satisfying.
The proteins you can add to this salad are beans, lentils, whole grains, shrimp, tempeh, boiled eggs, grilled chicken, or tofu, etc.
- Grains: If you want to make it gratifying, then you can surely consider adding some kind of cooked grains to this healthy orange salad. You can add grains such as quinoa, whole grains, farro, or couscous to this salad.
Grains will absolutely add more texture and nutrition to this salad.
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Nuts: I have used walnuts in this salad recipe. You can also add other nuts, such as roasted peanuts, hazelnuts, pecans, or almonds. Instead of just using one type of nut, you can also use a mix of different types of nuts for this salad recipe.
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Cheese variations: If you’re a cheese lover, consider adding a different type of cheese to the salad. Crumbled blue cheese, shaved parmesan, or creamy brie can all add a different flavor profile to the dish.
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Other dressings: Dressing is the backbone of any salad, and it has the power to make or break the taste and flavors of any salad. So you can certainly experiment with different types of dressings. Every different dressing will give it a unique taste.
A creamy greek yogurt ranch, Apple cider vinaigrette, ginger-turmeric dressing, honey mustard dressing, spicy jalapeno dressing, or even a simple olive oil & vinegar dressing can be added to this salad.
Serving Suggestions
This salad tastes best when served chilled as it is as a lunch or a side. You can also pair it with a side of garlic bread, and Ratatouille pasta or any other pasta of your choice. It is advisable to keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to eat, and only add the dressing when you are planning to serve it.
To serve, simply portion out the orange salad onto individual bowls/plates. Then you can add any additional toppings or dressing or you can also top it with grilled halloumi or grilled chicken. And enjoy a delicious and refreshing orange salad any time of the day.
Storage suggestions
This orange salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To store, add chopped oranges, and vegetables separately in air-tight containers. When you want to serve, arrange the salad in a tray and drizzle it with the dressing.
The greens wilt over time, so to keep it fresh, it’s advisable to dress the salad only before serving.
Meal prep: If you are planning on making an orange salad for meal prep purposes, it’s suggested to keep the greens and all the other ingredients separate. You can cut the fruits and veggies and add them to a jar to make portions.
When you want to eat it, make the dressing, add it to the salad, toss, and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks to make the Best Orange Salad
Making orange salad is super easy, and doesn’t require any special skills. But some pointers can indeed help you make the perfect orange salad each time. Following are some tips and tricks:
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Toppings: For added crunch and richness you can add chopped or whole nuts, seeds, fried onions, or even croutons right before serving. To make it more refreshing and delicious, you can add some herbs such as mint or basil.
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Add the dressing before serving: To maintain the freshness of the salad, make sure to only make the dressing and add it to the salad until you’re ready to eat. Adding dressing right before serving keeps the salad fresh and crisp, and will also prevent the greens from wilting and the oranges from turning mushy.
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Choose ripe oranges: For getting the best taste and juicy flavors, it is advised to use sweet ripe, and juicy oranges. When you are buying the oranges, make certain that the oranges have a bright color feel and are heavy for their size. Heavy oranges contain more juice.
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Toast the nuts: To enhance the flavor and crunch you can toast the nuts before adding them to the salad. You can toast nuts in a pan over medium heat until they are golden brown and fragrant. Keep the toast nuts in an air-tight container. To store, let the nuts cool at room temperature, and store.
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**Greens: **If the leaves you are using are tough like kale or collard greens, then you can massage them before adding them to the salad. Massaging will make them softer and easier to digest.
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Flavors: When making salad dressing, you can surely experiment with different flavor combinations. You can add herbs or spices like oregano, parsley, basil, cinnamon, or ground cumin powder. You can also use other types of vinegar in the dressing to get a different flavor.
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Protein: You can add protein to this salad. You can use feta cheese, tofu, grilled halloumi, or goat cheese. Or add some meat protein, such as chicken, shrimp, or steak.
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Vinaigrette Storage: If you have some leftover orange vinaigrette, then you can store it for up to 5 days in an air-tight jar in the refrigerator. When you want to add it to the salad, simply shake and drizzle it over the salad.
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Seeds: You can also add poppy seeds, or chia seeds to orange vinaigrette.
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Use room temperature oranges: When you are juicing oranges, it is advisable to use the room temperature oranges to get the most juice out of it. You can also pop the oranges in the microwave for 20 seconds and then roll it on the chopping board before juicing.
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Keep sliced oranges refrigerated: Make sure to keep the sliced oranges refrigerated to maintain the freshness.
FAQ
Can I use other fruits in the orange salad recipe?
Yes, definitely! I have used oranges and pomegranates. Orange salad is very versatile and can be made using many other citrus fruits such as grapefruit, blood oranges, clementine, or mandarins.
You can also add other fruits like strawberries, grapes, or apples for added flavor, color, taste, and texture.
Can I use a different type of greens in my orange salad recipe?
Absolutely. You can use any salad greens in this orange salad. I have used mixed greens here, but you can also use only 1 type of green or just lettuce. Greens that go well in this salad are arugula, spinach, or kale.
How to make orange salad recipe filler?
If you want to make a filler orange salad, then make sure you add some carbs or protein to the salad. You can either use cheese such as parmesan, feta, tofu, paneer, or halloumi. Or add some meat like chicken, shrimp, or grains like quinoa, or faro to the salad to make it more satisfying.
Can I make my orange salad recipe in advance?
Yes, making this salad ahead of time is possible. Just remember to add the dressing only when you are about to serve. This step will make sure that your greens and other vegetables stay crunchy and fresh.
Can I add cheese to my orange salad recipe?
Yes, adding cheese to this orange salad is possible. You can add crumbled feta cheese, grilled tofu, grilled halloumi, crumbled blue cheese, or even shaved parmesan. Every cheese adds a distinct flavor profile to the salad.
How long can I keep the orange salad recipe in the refrigerator?
The orange salad recipe stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an air-tight container in the refrigerator without any dressing. Just store the salad in the drizzle with the dressing only before serving to keep it fresh.
Orange Salad (Step-by-step photo instructions)
Preparation
- Zest 1 orange using a grater or zester. Keep rotating & grating orange until you get 1 tablespoon zest. Keep it aside. Next, cut one orange into half, and juice it using a citrus juicer. Set it aside.
- Cut the avocado lengthwise until you feel the knife hit the pit. Twist & open the avocado. Remove the seed, and scoop it out using a spoon. Discard the skin, and place the avocado cut-side down on a cutting board and slice or chop it.
- Peel 3 oranges, cut them in half, and slice. Chop/slice 1/2 red onion and keep it aside.
Make the Orange Vinaigrette
- In a jar, add the orange juice, olive oil, honey, mustard, orange zest, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste. Shake until well combined. Lastly, add vinegar and shake it again. Orange vinaigrette is ready.
Make Orange Salad
- Arrange the spring mix lettuce (or any other greens) on a large platter or bowl. Alternatively, you can also divide between 4 bowls. Place the chopped avocados, sliced red onions, and the sliced oranges on top. Sprinkle with pomegranate arils, raisins/dried cranberries, and walnuts/almonds.
- Drizzle the orange vinaigrette on the top of the salad, or serve it on the side. Enjoy!
Recipe Card
Orange Salad [Recipe]
★★★★★
(Rating: 5 from 5 reviews)
| Prep time 🕐 | Cook time 🕐 | Total time 🕐 |
|---|---|---|
| 15 mins | ||
| Category ☶ | Cuisine ♨ | Serves ☺ |
| Salads | International | 4 |
| Nutrition Info ⊛ | Serving size ⊚ | |
| 215 calories | 1 |
INGREDIENTS
For Orange Salad
- 3 cups spring mix lettuce (or spinach)
- 3 large oranges
- 1 medium-sized avocado
- 1/2 large-sized purple onion
- 1/2 cup pomegranate arils
- 1/4 cup of black raisins or dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup walnuts or sliced almonds (you can also use pecans)
Orange Vinaigrette
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
- 1 tablespoon vinegar (I used white vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste
- Himalayan pink or kosher salt, to taste
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preparation
- Zest 1 orange using a grater or zester. Keep rotating & grating orange until you get 1 tablespoon zest. Keep it aside. Next, cut one orange into half, and juice it using a citrus juicer. Set it aside.
- Cut the avocado lengthwise until you feel the knife hit the pit. Twist & open the avocado. Remove the seed, and scoop it out using a spoon. Discard the skin, and place the avocado cut-side down on a cutting board and slice or chop it.
- Peel 3 oranges, cut them in half, and slice. Chop/slice 1/2 red onion and keep it aside.
Make the Orange Vinaigrette
- In a jar, add the orange juice, olive oil, honey, mustard, orange zest, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste. Shake until well combined. Lastly, add vinegar and shake it again. Orange vinaigrette is ready.
Make Orange Salad
- Arrange the spring mix lettuce (or any other greens) on a large platter or bowl. Alternatively, you can also divide between 4 bowls. Place the chopped avocados, sliced red onions, and the sliced oranges on top. Sprinkle with pomegranate arils, raisins/dried cranberries, and walnuts/almonds.
- Drizzle the orange vinaigrette on the top of the salad, or serve it on the side. Enjoy!
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Author: Anupama
Recipe Source Link: https://www.mygingergarlickitchen.com/orange-salad/