You can use a mixture of citrus fruits to build this salad. In the recipe above we’ve suggested a combination of oranges and blood oranges, but you could also add other fruit, such as pomegranate seeds, to bring a different dimension to the salad. There’s a whole range of unusual citrus fruits that are worth experimenting with, which you can discover and explore in our useful guide.
It’s worth taking the time to remove the citrus segments from the membranes, as these can taste a little bitter. The supremes, which are the sections left in the middle, are juicy and sweet for a clean flavor in your salad. When removing the segments from the membranes, take care to do this over a small mixing bowl so you can keep the juices for your dressing.
Dressing Ideas and Flavor Pairings
We’ve featured a simple citrus salad dressing in this recipe, using the existing citrus juices and honey to brighten the flavors of the ingredients. However, you can vary this salad dressing for a citrus salad, and create something closer to a citrus vinaigrette salad dressing that offers a sharpness to contrast the sweetness of the citrus fruit. Dijon mustard is often a welcome addition to this recipe, offering a tangy flavor.
To develop the salad, you can incorporate other flavor pairings to create a heartier dish. Crumbled cheese, such as feta, brings a salty, creamy element to the salad that’s ideal with the soft and sweet citrus fruit. To add a crunchy texture to the salad, try topping it with a selection of nuts. Toasted hazelnuts and walnuts are delicious with the citrus fruit, and seasonal flavors during the winter months. Finally, if you want to add a kick of heat to the salad, slices of red chili peppers are a fun and unusual combination with the citrus fruit.
How to Serve and Store
A citrus salad can be enjoyed on its own, straight from the salad bowl, as a nutritious entrée. Or for a more filling meal, plate it with roasted chicken, smoked salmon, or poached eggs for a refined brunch option.
You can store any leftover citrus salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The citrus will start to break down and cause the salad to become soggy after this time, so it should be consumed on the day of making or the day after for optimal freshness. And for more information on how to source and store the best citrus fruit, we have a detailed guide available to make sure you’re making your salad with the freshest ingredients possible.
