Citrus Salad

Citrus salads are a burst of flavor and color on a bowl. Picture juicy slices of grapefruit, mandarin or oranges on a plate. Drizzled with a delicious vinaigrette comprising of olive brine and honey. The taste is phenomenal, the concept is simplistic but the taste is out of this world. The bold, bright and refreshing flavors create incredible explosions of tanginess and sweetness.

Less is more when it comes to elegance on a plate, but there are many ways to dress up this citrus salad, consider adding your favorite nuts such as pecan nuts or walnuts. Slices of ripe avocado can add creaminess.

A few crumbles of feta cheese can add that salt factor. Add a bed of greens such as Baby Spinach, Arugula or Kale leaves and voila, you can create your own twist on this amazing salad. The possibilities are unlimited. The salad dressings can also vary according to your mood. Here’s our favorite two salad dressings to use on this salad: Greek Salad Dressing, Parmesan Salad Dressing.

Ingredients

Mint Leaves, Salt &, Sugar and Black Pepper. (Light sprinkled) Mandarin, Grapefruit, Lime, Olive brine, Honey.

Mint leaves evoke a cooling sensation, when it is paired with citrus, the two elements become the embodiment of refreshment. When mint leaves are shredded into smaller pieces, it releases its aromatic oils. A sprinkling of salt and sugar creates a balance to the citrus flavors. Black pepper adds warmth and complexity.

Mandarin and grapefruits were selected as a contrast to one another. The sweetness of the mandarin, coupled with the subtle bitterness of the grapefruit complement one another. When the grapefruit is macerated, it is becomes sweeter in nature. Tangy olive brine adds a savory note, with the golden honey rounding out the flavors.

Instructions

Slice the Citrus fruit: Peel the mandarins and the Grapefruit. When cutting a grapefruit or mandarin horizontally, start by placing the fruit on a chopping board with its stem facing side-ward. Using a knife, make an transversal incision on the horizontal plane. This will showcase the radial symmetry of the grapefruit or mandarin.

The vesicular pulp of the citrus fruit will be on full display. The knife should penetrate through the albedo which is the pith of the citrus fruit as well as the flavedo (skin of the citrus fruit). A steady grip with a strong pressure will produce an even cross-section displaying the juice sacs of the citrus.

Macerate the Grapefruit: Grapefruits tend to be bitter and sour. It is important to balance the high levels of citric acid. As a result of the citric acid, grapefruit tends to be tart in taste. To reduce the tartness of the grapefruit. Add the grapefruit to a bowl and add a teaspoon of white sugar or honey. Let it rest for five minutes. This will help to reduce the sourness of the grapefruit.

Make the Salad dressing: Take 1/3 cup of olive brine and mix it with two tablespoons of honey. Add one teaspoon of sugar. Mix well.

Arrange the Salad: Thoroughly wash the mint leaves and remove the stems. Arrange the salad with grapefruit, mandarin, olives and mint leaves on a plate. Drizzle with salad dressing and serve.

And there you have it, a simple and delicious salad that will elevate your main meals. You can also enjoy this salad on its own. Citrus salad is perfect for individuals that are taking the vegan route or preferring a pick-me-up meal that will give you a boost of energy. Especially with a burst of citrus from the grapefruits and mandarin. These flavors work well with red meats and add depth to the meal.

How to Store Citrus Salad?

Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for one day. Salads do not freeze well.

What to Serve with Citrus Salad?

You can pair citrus salad with Grilled Lamb chops or Rib Eye Steak. Roast vegetables will also taste really good with this salad. Add color to your cheese board with the vibrant colors of the citrus. Serve at Family Barbecues and family gatherings. Alongside a freshly baked fish straight out of the oven with simple spices will work hand in hand with the bold and bright flavors of the citrus.