Vibrant citrus zest salad with blood orange, grapefruit, lemon, avocado slices, pomegranate seeds, microgreens, and cucumber ribbons.

The Citrus Zest Salad with Avocado is a delightful blend of zesty citrus, creamy avocado, and fresh greens, presented with an aesthetic flair. This dish is light, flavorful, and perfect for brunch, lunch, or as a refreshing starter. Here’s how to bring this vibrant recipe to life.


Ingredients

Prepare these ingredients to create your Citrus Zest Salad with Avocado:

  • 1 blood orange, thinly sliced
  • 1 grapefruit, thinly sliced
  • 1 lemon, thinly sliced
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • ½ cucumber, thinly ribboned
  • 2 tbsp pomegranate seeds
  • 1 handful of microgreens (e.g., arugula or watercress)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt

Step 1: Prepare the Citrus and Avocado

The citrus fruits are the star of this dish, and careful preparation ensures a stunning presentation.

  • Method: Slice the blood orange, grapefruit, and lemon into thin, even rounds. Remove seeds and gently peel away any pith. Slice the avocado into thin wedges and drizzle with a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
  • Tip: Use a sharp knife to create clean, uniform slices for a polished look.

Step 2: Arrange the Salad Base

Layering is key to creating a visually appealing salad.

  • Method: On a large white ceramic plate, arrange the citrus slices in overlapping layers to form a circular pattern. Add the avocado slices between the citrus rounds for a pop of green.
  • Tip: Alternate citrus colors for a vibrant, dynamic presentation.

Step 3: Add Garnishes and Dressing

Garnishes elevate the dish, adding both flavor and style.

  • Method: Sprinkle pomegranate seeds over the citrus and avocado. Add thin ribbons of cucumber and scatter microgreens for texture. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and finish with a pinch of flaky sea salt.

Step 4: Final Presentation

Presentation is what makes this salad a true showstopper.

  • Serving Dish: Use a white or neutral plate to enhance the vibrancy of the colors.
  • Background Setting: Plate the dish on a light linen napkin with subtle natural lighting to highlight freshness. Add a small bowl of olive oil or fresh herbs nearby for extra flair.
  • Optional Touch: Add a few edible flowers for an even more elegant look.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

This salad is the perfect combination of flavor, nutrition, and beauty:

  • Health Benefits: Citrus fruits are packed with vitamin C, while avocado adds healthy fats and creaminess.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: The bold colors and thoughtful plating make it perfect for special occasions or Instagram-worthy posts.
  • Quick and Easy: Despite its elegant presentation, this dish is simple to prepare and assemble.

The Citrus Zest Salad with Avocado is more than just a salad—it’s a vibrant, refreshing dish that embodies the essence of Beyond Every Bite. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate.