Refreshing Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad Recipe

Katherine

Honoring generations of culinary artistry.

The first time I made this Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad, it was a surprisingly warm day in late December, and I was craving something light yet satisfying for lunch. Flipping through some recipe ideas, this one jumped out at me immediately. The vibrant colors of the citrus fruits and the promise of creamy avocado against crisp greens seemed like the perfect antidote to the heavier holiday fare we’d been enjoying. Let me tell you, it was an instant hit! My family, even the salad skeptics, devoured it. The zesty dressing perfectly balanced the richness of the avocado and the sweetness of the oranges and grapefruit. It’s become a regular in our rotation ever since – a true testament to its deliciousness and simplicity. If you’re looking for a salad that’s not just good for you, but genuinely exciting to eat, you absolutely have to try this recipe. It’s a burst of sunshine in a bowl!

The Zesty Delight: My Family’s Love Affair with Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad

This isn’t just another salad recipe; it’s an experience. Imagine the bright, tangy notes of freshly segmented oranges and grapefruits mingling with the smooth, buttery texture of perfectly ripe avocado. Now, picture this symphony of flavors tossed with crisp mixed greens, a hint of red onion for a subtle bite, refreshing cucumber, and the herbaceous freshness of cilantro, all brought together by a simple yet vibrant lime and olive oil dressing. That, in essence, is the magic of this Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad.

What started as a simple experiment in my kitchen has evolved into a family favorite. It’s the dish I turn to when I need a quick, healthy lunch, a refreshing side for dinner, or even a potluck contribution that’s guaranteed to impress. It’s incredibly versatile, adapting beautifully to different seasons and occasions. In the winter, the citrus fruits offer a welcome dose of sunshine and Vitamin C, while in the summer, it’s the ultimate light and hydrating meal.

Beyond its incredible taste, this salad is also a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with vitamins, healthy fats, and fiber, it’s a guilt-free way to nourish your body. Whether you’re a seasoned salad enthusiast or someone looking to incorporate more fresh, wholesome foods into your diet, this Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. It’s more than just a salad; it’s a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients that come together in perfect harmony.

Why This Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad Recipe is a Must-Try

In a world overflowing with salad recipes, you might be wondering, “What makes this Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad so special?” The answer lies in its perfect balance of flavors, textures, and nutritional benefits, combined with its ease of preparation and incredible versatility. Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your culinary repertoire:

  • Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet citrus, creamy avocado, and tangy lime dressing is a flavor revelation. It’s a delightful dance of sweet, savory, and zesty that awakens your taste buds with every bite. This isn’t a bland, boring salad; it’s a vibrant and exciting culinary experience.
  • Texture Perfection: The “chopped” aspect is key. Dicing the vegetables and segmenting the citrus ensures a delightful mix of textures – the crispness of the greens and cucumber, the soft avocado, the juicy citrus segments, and the slight crunch of red onion. This textural variety makes each mouthful interesting and satisfying.
  • Nutritional Powerhouse: This salad is packed with goodness. Avocado provides healthy monounsaturated fats, essential for heart health and satiety. Citrus fruits are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, boosting your immune system. Mixed greens offer a wealth of vitamins and minerals, while cucumber and cilantro add hydration and further nutritional benefits. It’s a delicious way to eat healthy!
  • Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet taste, this salad is incredibly simple to prepare. There’s no cooking involved – just chopping, segmenting, and tossing. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick and impressive dish for guests.
  • Versatile and Adaptable: This recipe is a fantastic base that you can easily customize to your liking. Add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it a complete meal. Swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. It’s a flexible recipe that adapts to your needs.
  • Visually Appealing: Let’s face it, we eat with our eyes first. The vibrant colors of the citrus fruits, green avocado, and fresh herbs make this salad a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. It’s a beautiful dish that will brighten up any table.
  • Refreshing and Hydrating: Especially in warmer months, this salad is incredibly refreshing and hydrating. The juicy citrus and cucumber are naturally hydrating, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch or summer dinner.

In short, this Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary gem that ticks all the boxes – flavor, nutrition, ease, versatility, and visual appeal. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a must-try for anyone who loves fresh, vibrant, and healthy food.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Your Refreshing Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad

The beauty of this Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad lies in the quality and freshness of its ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need, along with some tips for choosing the best components:

  • 2 cups Mixed Greens, Chopped: The base of our salad.
    • Choosing Your Greens: Opt for a mix of greens for a variety of textures and flavors. Spring mix, romaine lettuce, butter lettuce, or even baby spinach are all excellent choices. Look for greens that are vibrant green and crisp, avoiding any wilted or yellowing leaves. Pre-washed mixed greens are convenient, but you can also buy heads of lettuce and chop them yourself.
    • Chopping: Chop the greens into bite-sized pieces. If using larger lettuce leaves like romaine, be sure to remove the tough ribs before chopping.
  • 1 Medium Avocado, Diced: Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
    • Choosing Avocado: The key is to choose a perfectly ripe avocado. It should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not be mushy. If it’s too hard, it’s not ripe enough; if it’s too soft, it may be overripe. Hass avocados are a popular choice for their creamy texture and rich flavor.
    • Dicing: Dice the avocado just before serving to prevent browning. You can toss it with a little lime juice to further inhibit oxidation.
  • 1 Grapefruit, Segmented: Provides a tangy and slightly bitter citrus note.
    • Choosing Grapefruit: Look for grapefruits that feel heavy for their size, indicating they are juicy. Ruby red grapefruits offer a sweeter flavor and beautiful color.
    • Segmenting: Segmenting citrus fruits (also known as supreming) involves removing the segments from the membrane, resulting in clean, juicy pieces. There are many online tutorials to guide you if you’re new to this technique.
  • 1 Orange, Segmented: Adds sweetness and bright citrus flavor.
    • Choosing Oranges: Navel oranges are a great choice for segmenting as they are seedless and easy to peel. Valencia oranges are also delicious and juicy.
    • Segmenting: Segment the orange in the same manner as the grapefruit.
  • 1/2 Red Onion, Finely Chopped: Provides a subtle pungent bite.
    • Choosing Red Onion: Look for firm, smooth red onions without any soft spots or blemishes.
    • Finely Chopping: Finely chop the red onion to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the salad and doesn’t overpower other flavors. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can soak the chopped red onion in cold water for 10 minutes and then drain it before adding it to the salad.
  • 1/2 Cucumber, Diced: Adds coolness and refreshing crunch.
    • Choosing Cucumber: English cucumbers (also known as seedless cucumbers) are a good choice as they have thinner skin and fewer seeds. Regular cucumbers also work well; you may want to peel them and remove some of the seeds if they are large.
    • Dicing: Dice the cucumber into small, bite-sized pieces.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro, Chopped: Adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
    • Choosing Cilantro: Look for bright green cilantro with fresh, perky leaves. Avoid cilantro that is wilted or yellowing.
    • Chopping: Chop the cilantro roughly. Some people love cilantro stems, which are also flavorful, while others prefer just the leaves. Use your preference.
  • Dressing:
    • Juice of 1 Lime: Provides the tangy base for the dressing. Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential for the best flavor.
    • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps emulsify the dressing. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor and health benefits.
    • Salt and Pepper to Taste: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients. Use sea salt or kosher salt for the best flavor. Freshly ground black pepper is also recommended.

Optional Ingredient Enhancements:

  • Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta cheese adds a salty, tangy element that complements the citrus and avocado beautifully.
  • Toasted Nuts or Seeds: Toasted almonds, pecans, or pumpkin seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
  • Honey or Maple Syrup: A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can add a touch of sweetness to the dressing if you prefer a slightly sweeter salad.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: For a hint of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.

By using high-quality, fresh ingredients, you’ll elevate this Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad from simple to spectacular.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting the Perfect Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad

Making this Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad is a breeze! Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to ensure salad perfection:

Step 1: Prepare the Citrus Fruits (Approx. 15 minutes)

  • Grapefruit and Orange Segmenting: This is often the most time-consuming part, but it’s worth the effort for the best texture and flavor.
    • Start by washing the grapefruit and orange thoroughly.
    • Using a sharp knife, cut off the top and bottom of each citrus fruit, removing just enough to expose the fruit.
    • Stand the fruit on one flat end and carefully cut away the peel and pith (the white membrane) in strips, following the curve of the fruit. Work your way around until all the peel and pith are removed.
    • Hold the peeled citrus fruit over a bowl to catch the juices.
    • To segment, locate a segment membrane and insert your knife along one side of it, close to the membrane. Then, insert the knife on the other side of the segment, again close to the membrane. Gently pry out the segment. Repeat for all segments.
    • Squeeze any remaining juice from the fruit “skeleton” into the bowl with the segments. Set the segmented citrus aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables (Approx. 10 minutes)

  • Chop the Mixed Greens: If using pre-washed mixed greens, simply give them a quick rinse and pat them dry. Chop them into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. If using heads of lettuce, wash them thoroughly, remove any outer wilted leaves, and chop them after drying.
  • Dice the Avocado: Just before you’re ready to assemble the salad, dice the avocado. Cut the avocado in half lengthwise, remove the pit, and then score the flesh in a grid pattern with a knife. Scoop out the diced avocado with a spoon and add it to the bowl with the greens. To prevent browning, you can toss the diced avocado with a squeeze of lime juice.
  • Finely Chop the Red Onion: Peel the red onion and finely chop it. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the chopped onion in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry. Add the chopped red onion to the bowl.
  • Dice the Cucumber: Wash the cucumber. If using a regular cucumber, you may want to peel it partially or fully and remove some of the seeds. Dice the cucumber and add it to the bowl.
  • Chop the Cilantro: Rinse the cilantro and pat it dry. Roughly chop the cilantro leaves and tender stems (if using stems). Add the chopped cilantro to the bowl.

Step 3: Make the Dressing (Approx. 5 minutes)

  • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Start with the juice of one lime and 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and adjust to your taste. Season generously with salt and pepper. You can use a whisk or simply shake the ingredients together in a jar with a lid.
  • Taste and Adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more lime juice for extra tang, more salt or pepper, or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.

Step 4: Assemble and Toss the Salad (Approx. 2 minutes)

  • Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl.
  • Gently toss everything together until the greens and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to over-toss, especially with the avocado, to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

  • Serve the salad immediately for the freshest and most vibrant flavors and textures. Garnish with additional cilantro, if desired, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts or crumbled feta cheese.

Tips for Success:

  • Freshness is Key: Use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
  • Don’t Dress Too Early: Dress the salad just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting and the avocado from browning.
  • Taste as You Go: Taste the dressing and the salad as you assemble it and adjust seasonings to your liking.
  • Chill Ingredients (Optional): For an extra refreshing salad, you can chill the segmented citrus, chopped vegetables, and even the dressing separately before assembling the salad.

With these simple steps, you’ll have a delicious and refreshing Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad ready to enjoy in no time!

Nutritional Powerhouse: Unpacking the Health Benefits of Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad

This Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad isn’t just delicious; it’s also incredibly good for you! Each ingredient contributes a wealth of nutrients, making it a true nutritional powerhouse. Let’s break down the health benefits:

  • Avocado:
    • Healthy Fats: Avocado is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy fats that can help lower bad cholesterol levels.
    • Fiber: Avocado is a good source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping you feel full and satisfied.
    • Vitamins and Minerals: Avocado is packed with vitamins K, C, E, B vitamins, and potassium.
  • Citrus Fruits (Grapefruit and Orange):
    • Vitamin C: Citrus fruits are famous for their high Vitamin C content, a powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system, protects against cell damage, and is essential for collagen production.
    • Antioxidants: They are rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and disease-fighting properties.
    • Fiber: Citrus fruits also contribute to your daily fiber intake.
  • Mixed Greens:
    • Vitamins and Minerals: Mixed greens are loaded with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin K, folate, and iron, depending on the specific greens in the mix.
    • Fiber: Greens are an excellent source of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
    • Low in Calories: Greens are very low in calories, making them a great base for a healthy and filling salad.
  • Cucumber:
    • Hydration: Cucumbers are mostly water, making them incredibly hydrating.
    • Vitamins and Minerals: They contain vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium in smaller amounts.
    • Low in Calories: Cucumbers are very low in calories and contribute to the salad’s refreshing quality.
  • Red Onion:
    • Antioxidants: Red onions contain antioxidants like quercetin and anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory and potential cancer-fighting properties.
    • Prebiotics: They are a source of prebiotics, which feed beneficial bacteria in your gut, promoting gut health.
  • Cilantro:
    • Vitamins and Minerals: Cilantro contains vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium.
    • Antioxidants: It’s a source of antioxidants and has potential anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Lime Juice and Olive Oil Dressing:
    • Vitamin C (Lime Juice): Lime juice adds an extra boost of Vitamin C.
    • Healthy Fats (Olive Oil): Extra virgin olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Estimated Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximate and may vary based on ingredient quantities and specific brands):

  • Servings: Approximately 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: 250-350 calories (depending on dressing quantity and avocado size)

Breakdown (approximate per serving):

  • Fat: 20-30g (mostly healthy fats from avocado and olive oil)
  • Carbohydrates: 15-25g (fiber and natural sugars from fruits and vegetables)
  • Protein: 3-5g
  • Fiber: 5-8g

This salad is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free (unless you add feta cheese), and vegetarian/vegan. It’s a wonderful option for a healthy lunch, light dinner, or side dish that nourishes your body from the inside out.

Prep Time Perfection: How Quickly Can You Enjoy This Salad?

One of the best things about this Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad is how quickly it comes together. It’s perfect for those busy days when you want a healthy and delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

  • Total Preparation Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes.

Time Breakdown:

  • Citrus Segmenting: 15-20 minutes (This is the most time-consuming step, especially if you are new to segmenting citrus. With practice, you’ll become faster!)
  • Vegetable Chopping: 10-15 minutes (Chopping the greens, avocado, red onion, cucumber, and cilantro is relatively quick, especially if you are efficient with your knife skills.)
  • Dressing Preparation: 5 minutes (Whisking or shaking the dressing ingredients together is very fast.)
  • Assembly and Tossing: 2 minutes (Once everything is prepped, assembling and tossing the salad takes just a couple of minutes.)

Make-Ahead Tips to Save Time:

  • Segment Citrus Ahead of Time: You can segment the grapefruit and orange up to a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will significantly cut down on prep time when you’re ready to make the salad.
  • Chop Vegetables Ahead (Partial): You can chop the red onion and cucumber a few hours ahead of time and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to dice the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
  • Prepare the Dressing Ahead: The dressing can be made up to a few days in advance and stored in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using.
  • Pre-washed Greens: Using pre-washed mixed greens saves time on washing and chopping.

Quick Assembly on the Day of Serving:

If you prep components ahead of time, you can assemble and dress the salad in under 10 minutes! This makes it a fantastic option for a last-minute lunch or a quick and healthy dinner side.

While there is no cooking involved, the “prep time” focuses on the ingredient preparation – segmenting, chopping, and dressing. This investment in fresh, high-quality ingredients and a bit of chopping pays off in a salad that’s bursting with flavor and nutrition, ready to be enjoyed in under 40 minutes (or even less with make-ahead strategies!).

Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Meals with Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad

This Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meals:

  • As a Refreshing Side Salad:
    • Pair with Grilled Proteins: It’s a perfect accompaniment to grilled chicken, fish (like salmon or cod), shrimp, or steak. The salad’s brightness cuts through the richness of grilled meats beautifully.
    • Serve with Vegetarian Mains: Pairs wonderfully with vegetarian dishes like grilled halloumi, lentil burgers, or roasted vegetables.
    • Accompany Sandwiches or Wraps: Add a side of this salad to your favorite sandwiches or wraps for a light and balanced lunch.
    • Complement Soups: Serve alongside a light soup like gazpacho or a creamy tomato soup for a complete and satisfying meal.
  • As a Light and Healthy Lunch:
    • Enjoy it on its own: This salad is satisfying enough to be enjoyed as a light and nutritious lunch on its own.
    • Add Protein for a Heartier Meal: To make it a more substantial lunch, add grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or tofu.
    • Top with Hard-Boiled Eggs: Sliced hard-boiled eggs add protein and richness, transforming the salad into a more filling meal.
  • As a Potluck or Party Dish:
    • Impress Your Guests: This vibrant and flavorful salad is a crowd-pleaser and a beautiful addition to any potluck, BBQ, or party buffet.
    • Make it Ahead (Component-wise): Prepare the components (segmented citrus, chopped veggies, dressing) separately ahead of time and assemble just before serving to maintain freshness.
  • Creative Serving Ideas:
    • Serve in Lettuce Cups: For a low-carb option, serve the salad in crisp lettuce cups (like butter lettuce or romaine leaves).
    • Top with Toasted Nuts or Seeds: Sprinkle toasted almonds, pecans, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds on top for added crunch and flavor.
    • Add Crumbled Cheese: Crumbled feta cheese, goat cheese, or cotija cheese add a salty, tangy dimension.
    • Include Grains: For a more substantial salad, add cooked quinoa, farro, or couscous.
  • Seasonal Serving Suggestions:
    • Summer: Perfect as a light and hydrating summer lunch or side dish. Enjoy it chilled for extra refreshment.
    • Winter: The bright citrus fruits provide a welcome burst of sunshine and Vitamin C during the colder months.
    • Spring/Fall: Enjoy it as a vibrant side dish with seasonal main courses.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad is sure to be a delightful and refreshing addition to your meal. Its versatility makes it a perfect choice for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings.

Pro Tips for the Best Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad Every Time

To ensure your Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad is consistently delicious and impressive, here are five pro tips to keep in mind:

  1. Use High-Quality, Fresh Ingredients: The flavor of this salad truly shines when you use the freshest and best-quality ingredients you can find. Choose ripe but firm avocados, juicy citrus fruits, crisp greens, and fresh herbs. The better the ingredients, the better the salad will taste.
  2. Segment Citrus Fruits Properly: Take the time to segment the grapefruit and orange correctly. Removing the membranes ensures you get only the juicy, flavorful segments without any bitterness. Segmenting also improves the overall texture of the salad. Watch a quick online tutorial if you’re unsure how to segment citrus fruits.
  3. Don’t Over-Dress the Salad: Start with a smaller amount of dressing and add more as needed. Over-dressing can make the salad soggy and mask the fresh flavors of the ingredients. You want the dressing to enhance, not overpower, the salad. Toss gently and taste before adding more dressing.
  4. Dress Just Before Serving: To maintain the crispness of the greens and the vibrant color of the avocado, dress the salad right before serving. Dressing it too early can cause the greens to wilt and the avocado to brown. If you’re making it ahead, keep the dressing separate and toss it with the salad just before serving.
  5. Customize and Adapt to Your Taste: This recipe is a fantastic base, but don’t be afraid to customize it to your liking.
    • Adjust Dressing: Play with the dressing by adding a touch of honey or maple syrup for sweetness, a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or different herbs like mint or parsley.
    • Add Cheese: If you enjoy cheese, crumbled feta, goat cheese, or cotija cheese can add a delicious salty and tangy element.
    • Incorporate Nuts or Seeds: Toasted almonds, pecans, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds provide extra crunch and nutty flavor.
    • Include Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or tofu to make it a more substantial meal.
    • Vary Greens: Experiment with different types of greens like baby spinach, arugula, or romaine lettuce.

By following these pro tips, you’ll consistently create a Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad that is bursting with flavor, perfectly textured, and sure to impress every time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad (FAQ)

Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making and enjoying Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad:

Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: It’s best to assemble and dress this salad just before serving for optimal freshness and texture. However, you can prep components ahead of time to save time on the day of serving. Segment the citrus fruits, chop the vegetables (except avocado), and make the dressing up to a day in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Dice the avocado just before serving and toss everything together.

Q2: How do I prevent the avocado from browning in the salad?
A: Avocado tends to brown when exposed to air. To minimize browning, dice the avocado just before serving and toss it immediately with a little lime juice. The acidity of the lime juice helps to slow down oxidation. You can also gently press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of any leftover salad containing avocado and store it in the refrigerator for a short period.

Q3: Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?
A: Yes, this recipe is quite versatile!
* Citrus Fruits: You can use different combinations of citrus fruits like mandarins, blood oranges, or even pomelos.
* Greens: Feel free to use your favorite mixed greens, romaine lettuce, butter lettuce, or baby spinach.
* Onion: If you don’t like red onion, you can use shallots, green onions, or omit it altogether.
* Cilantro: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh parsley or mint.
* Dressing: You can experiment with different dressings. A lemon vinaigrette, a honey-lime dressing, or even a creamy avocado dressing would work well.

Q4: How long will leftovers of this salad last?
A: While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. However, the greens may wilt slightly, and the avocado may brown a bit, even with lime juice. The flavor will still be good, but the texture may not be as crisp. It’s best to eat leftovers as soon as possible.

Q5: Can I add protein to make this salad a complete meal?
A: Absolutely! Adding protein is a great way to make this salad a more substantial and satisfying meal. Some excellent protein additions include:
* Grilled chicken or shrimp
* Roasted chickpeas or white beans
* Grilled or pan-seared tofu or tempeh
* Hard-boiled eggs
* Flaked cooked salmon or tuna

Just add your protein of choice to the salad when you assemble it for a complete and balanced meal.

This FAQ section should help address any initial questions readers might have and encourage them to try making this delicious and refreshing salad!

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Refreshing Citrus Avocado Chopped Salad Recipe


  • Author: Katherine

Ingredients

Scale

  • 2 cups Mixed Greens, Chopped: The base of our salad.

    • Choosing Your Greens: Opt for a mix of greens for a variety of textures and flavors. Spring mix, romaine lettuce, butter lettuce, or even baby spinach are all excellent choices. Look for greens that are vibrant green and crisp, avoiding any wilted or yellowing leaves. Pre-washed mixed greens are convenient, but you can also buy heads of lettuce and chop them yourself.
    • Chopping: Chop the greens into bite-sized pieces. If using larger lettuce leaves like romaine, be sure to remove the tough ribs before chopping.

  • 1 Medium Avocado, Diced: Adds creaminess and healthy fats.

    • Choosing Avocado: The key is to choose a perfectly ripe avocado. It should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not be mushy. If it’s too hard, it’s not ripe enough; if it’s too soft, it may be overripe. Hass avocados are a popular choice for their creamy texture and rich flavor.
    • Dicing: Dice the avocado just before serving to prevent browning. You can toss it with a little lime juice to further inhibit oxidation.

  • 1 Grapefruit, Segmented: Provides a tangy and slightly bitter citrus note.

    • Choosing Grapefruit: Look for grapefruits that feel heavy for their size, indicating they are juicy. Ruby red grapefruits offer a sweeter flavor and beautiful color.
    • Segmenting: Segmenting citrus fruits (also known as supreming) involves removing the segments from the membrane, resulting in clean, juicy pieces. There are many online tutorials to guide you if you’re new to this technique.

  • 1 Orange, Segmented: Adds sweetness and bright citrus flavor.

    • Choosing Oranges: Navel oranges are a great choice for segmenting as they are seedless and easy to peel. Valencia oranges are also delicious and juicy.
    • Segmenting: Segment the orange in the same manner as the grapefruit.

  • 1/2 Red Onion, Finely Chopped: Provides a subtle pungent bite.

    • Choosing Red Onion: Look for firm, smooth red onions without any soft spots or blemishes.
    • Finely Chopping: Finely chop the red onion to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the salad and doesn’t overpower other flavors. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can soak the chopped red onion in cold water for 10 minutes and then drain it before adding it to the salad.

  • 1/2 Cucumber, Diced: Adds coolness and refreshing crunch.

    • Choosing Cucumber: English cucumbers (also known as seedless cucumbers) are a good choice as they have thinner skin and fewer seeds. Regular cucumbers also work well; you may want to peel them and remove some of the seeds if they are large.
    • Dicing: Dice the cucumber into small, bite-sized pieces.

  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro, Chopped: Adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor.

    • Choosing Cilantro: Look for bright green cilantro with fresh, perky leaves. Avoid cilantro that is wilted or yellowing.
    • Chopping: Chop the cilantro roughly. Some people love cilantro stems, which are also flavorful, while others prefer just the leaves. Use your preference.

  • Dressing:

    • Juice of 1 Lime: Provides the tangy base for the dressing. Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential for the best flavor.
    • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps emulsify the dressing. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor and health benefits.
    • Salt and Pepper to Taste: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients. Use sea salt or kosher salt for the best flavor. Freshly ground black pepper is also recommended.

Optional Ingredient Enhancements:

  • Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta cheese adds a salty, tangy element that complements the citrus and avocado beautifully.
  • Toasted Nuts or Seeds: Toasted almonds, pecans, or pumpkin seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
  • Honey or Maple Syrup: A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can add a touch of sweetness to the dressing if you prefer a slightly sweeter salad.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: For a hint of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Citrus Fruits (Approx. 15 minutes)

  • Grapefruit and Orange Segmenting: This is often the most time-consuming part, but it’s worth the effort for the best texture and flavor.

    • Start by washing the grapefruit and orange thoroughly.
    • Using a sharp knife, cut off the top and bottom of each citrus fruit, removing just enough to expose the fruit.
    • Stand the fruit on one flat end and carefully cut away the peel and pith (the white membrane) in strips, following the curve of the fruit. Work your way around until all the peel and pith are removed.
    • Hold the peeled citrus fruit over a bowl to catch the juices.
    • To segment, locate a segment membrane and insert your knife along one side of it, close to the membrane. Then, insert the knife on the other side of the segment, again close to the membrane. Gently pry out the segment. Repeat for all segments.
    • Squeeze any remaining juice from the fruit “skeleton” into the bowl with the segments. Set the segmented citrus aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables (Approx. 10 minutes)

  • Chop the Mixed Greens: If using pre-washed mixed greens, simply give them a quick rinse and pat them dry. Chop them into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. If using heads of lettuce, wash them thoroughly, remove any outer wilted leaves, and chop them after drying.
  • Dice the Avocado: Just before you’re ready to assemble the salad, dice the avocado. Cut the avocado in half lengthwise, remove the pit, and then score the flesh in a grid pattern with a knife. Scoop out the diced avocado with a spoon and add it to the bowl with the greens. To prevent browning, you can toss the diced avocado with a squeeze of lime juice.
  • Finely Chop the Red Onion: Peel the red onion and finely chop it. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the chopped onion in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry. Add the chopped red onion to the bowl.
  • Dice the Cucumber: Wash the cucumber. If using a regular cucumber, you may want to peel it partially or fully and remove some of the seeds. Dice the cucumber and add it to the bowl.
  • Chop the Cilantro: Rinse the cilantro and pat it dry. Roughly chop the cilantro leaves and tender stems (if using stems). Add the chopped cilantro to the bowl.

Step 3: Make the Dressing (Approx. 5 minutes)

  • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Start with the juice of one lime and 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and adjust to your taste. Season generously with salt and pepper. You can use a whisk or simply shake the ingredients together in a jar with a lid.
  • Taste and Adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more lime juice for extra tang, more salt or pepper, or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.

Step 4: Assemble and Toss the Salad (Approx. 2 minutes)

  • Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl.
  • Gently toss everything together until the greens and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to over-toss, especially with the avocado, to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

  • Serve the salad immediately for the freshest and most vibrant flavors and textures. Garnish with additional cilantro, if desired, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts or crumbled feta cheese.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: One Normal Portion
  • Calories: 250-350
  • Fat: 20-30g
  • Carbohydrates: 15-25g
  • Fiber: 5-8g
  • Protein: 3-5g