Bright, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, this Fresh Blood Orange Avocado Salad is the kind of dish that feels both refreshing and indulgent at the same time. Juicy, tangy blood oranges pair beautifully with creamy avocado, crisp greens, and a hint of zesty citrus dressing, creating a salad that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. Every bite delivers a balance of textures silky avocado, crunchy greens, and tender citrus segments with layers of sweet, tart, and slightly nutty flavors that make this salad feel special.
Perfect for spring or summer lunches, light dinners, or as a stunning starter for a dinner party, this salad is simple to assemble yet full of sophisticated flavor. It’s a recipe that feels elegant without being complicated, making it ideal for both weeknight meals and weekend entertaining.
Blood orange, grapefruit and avocado salad
What is Fresh Blood Orange Avocado Salad?
Fresh Blood Orange Avocado Salad is a modern, colorful twist on classic citrus salads. Originating from a desire to highlight seasonal produce, this salad celebrates the unique, deep crimson hue and sweet tart flavor of blood oranges. When paired with buttery avocado, crisp mixed greens, and a lightly citrusy dressing, it creates a dish that’s both visually striking and flavor forward.
Unlike traditional fruit salads, this recipe balances savory and sweet elements with textures that keep each bite interesting. The addition of optional toppings like toasted nuts or seeds can enhance the salad’s complexity, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Vibrant flavors: Sweet, tangy blood oranges contrast beautifully with creamy avocado.
- Quick & easy: Ready in under 20 minutes using simple, fresh ingredients.
- Nutritious & satisfying: Packed with healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins.
- Eye-catching presentation: Stunning colors make it a show-stopping addition to any meal.
- Versatile: Perfect as a light lunch, side salad, or starter for entertaining.
How This Recipe Works
- Citrus segments: Blood oranges are peeled and segmented to remove membranes, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.
- Avocado ripeness: Using slightly soft but firm avocado ensures creaminess without mushiness.
- Dressing balance: A simple citrus vinaigrette highlights the natural sweetness of the oranges while enhancing the salad’s overall flavor.
- Layered textures: Combining leafy greens, citrus, avocado, and optional nuts creates contrast between soft, crunchy, and juicy elements.
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
- 2–3 blood oranges, peeled and segmented
- 1 large avocado, sliced or cubed
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp toasted almonds or pistachios (optional, for crunch)
- 2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese (optional, for a tangy finish)
For the dressing:
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh blood orange juice
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Notes & Substitutions:
- Swap spinach or arugula for kale if you prefer heartier greens.
- Use walnuts or pecans instead of almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- If blood oranges aren’t available, navel oranges or cara cara oranges are a good substitute.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the oranges: Peel the blood oranges, removing as much of the white pith as possible. Slice between membranes to create clean segments.
- Prepare the avocado: Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and slice or cube the flesh. Set aside.
- Make the dressing: Whisk together olive oil, blood orange juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until emulsified.
- Assemble the salad: Place mixed greens in a large salad bowl. Arrange blood orange segments, avocado, and red onion over the top.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle with toasted nuts and feta cheese if desired.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving, tossing gently to combine without mashing the avocado.
Tips & Tricks / Flavor Variations
- Add protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for a more substantial meal.
- Play with greens: Baby kale or butter lettuce adds unique texture and flavor.
- Sweeten it up: Add pomegranate seeds or dried cranberries for extra tart-sweet balance.
- Cheese options: Goat cheese or blue cheese can be used instead of feta for a different flavor profile.
Make Ahead, Storage & Freezing Instructions
- Make ahead: Slice oranges and prep avocado just before serving to prevent browning. Greens can be washed and dried a day in advance.
- Storage: Leftover salad without dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1 day.
- Freezing: This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the delicate citrus and avocado textures.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside grilled fish or chicken for a light dinner.
- Pair with a warm grain bowl, like quinoa or farro, for a filling lunch.
- Great as a starter or side for brunch or holiday meals.
Nutritional Notes (Per Serving, serves 2–3)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 16 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 6 g
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overripe avocado: Can turn mushy when tossed with salad. Use slightly firm avocados.
- Too much dressing: Start with a small amount and add more gradually to avoid overpowering the fresh flavors.
- Skipping membrane removal: Unpeeled segments can be bitter. Take the time to segment the oranges carefully.
- Not drying greens: Excess water can dilute dressing and make salad soggy.
FAQs About Fresh Blood Orange Avocado Salad
Can I use regular oranges instead of blood oranges?
Yes! Navel or cara cara oranges work well and provide a similar sweetness with slightly less dramatic color.
Can this salad be made vegan?
Absolutely! Skip the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
How far in advance can I make this salad?
Prep the greens and dressing a day ahead, but segment the oranges and slice the avocado just before serving for best results.
Conclusion
Fresh, colorful, and packed with flavor, Fresh Blood Orange Avocado Salad is a versatile dish that feels special without requiring complicated steps. Every bite delivers a balance of sweet, tangy, creamy, and crunchy elements that make this salad memorable.
If you love easy Salads like Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad or Roasted Beet and Arugula Salad, this recipe belongs in your regular rotation.
Bright, colorful, and bursting with flavor this Fresh Blood Orange Avocado Salad is a must save for easy, healthy meals that wow every time!
Fresh Blood Orange Avocado Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens arugula, spinach, or spring mix
- 2 –3 blood oranges peeled and segmented
- 1 large avocado sliced or cubed
- 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp toasted almonds or pistachios optional, for crunch
- 2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese optional, for a tangy finish
For the dressing:
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh blood orange juice
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the oranges: Peel the blood oranges, removing as much of the white pith as possible. Slice between membranes to create clean segments.
- Prepare the avocado: Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and slice or cube the flesh. Set aside.
- Make the dressing: Whisk together olive oil, blood orange juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until emulsified.
- Assemble the salad: Place mixed greens in a large salad bowl. Arrange blood orange segments, avocado, and red onion over the top.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle with toasted nuts and feta cheese if desired.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving, tossing gently to combine without mashing the avocado.
Video
Notes
📝 Notes
- Use ripe but firm avocados to prevent mushy texture in the salad.
- Choose fresh blood oranges for vibrant color and juicy sweetness.
- Segment oranges carefully to remove all membranes for a clean presentation.
- Add a light drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt to enhance flavors.
- Optional toppings: toasted nuts, feta cheese, or fresh herbs for extra texture and taste.
- Prepare salad just before serving to keep avocado from browning.
- Store leftover ingredients separately in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
🍽️ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 180 kcal,Carbohydrates: 20 g,
Fiber: 6 g,
Sugars: 12 g,
Protein: 3 g,
Fat: 10 g,
Saturated Fat: 1.5 g,
Cholesterol: 0 mg,
Sodium: 60 mg,
Potassium: 550 mg,
Calcium: 40 mg,
Iron: 1 mg
