When you pass by blood oranges in the grocery store during the winter, it is very difficult to resist them. They exhibit a vibrant ruby flesh and a surprisingly sweet flavor. Many food manufacturers use them to flavor everything from sparking water and beer to salad dressings. This recipe uses the blood orange in two ways: freshly sliced in the salad and whisked into an oil-free vinaigrette.
The peppery arugula and mild spinach are the perfect backdrop for the zesty citrus slices that go into the salad. Plus, the creamy avocado not only provides another layer of texture, but also a lot of omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and potassium. When you slice the avocado, try your best to slice them thinly lengthwise, as opposed to cubing them. The long slivers of avocado are perfect when you stab your salad, because you get a sliver of avocado with a slice of orange and greens. That is the perfect bite!
What makes this winter blood orange salad healthy? Can we say everything? Because that is the real truth. Blood oranges are particularly rich in vitamins A & C, which work to encourage healthy immune function and improve the appearance of your skin. The omega-3s in avocados may regulate blood sugar, blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease. Finally, the greens are naturally rich in iron, magnesium, folate, and vitamin K, making this salad a true nutrient-dense recipe!
- Prep Time:15m
- Total Time:15m
- Serves: 4 servings
- Category: Full Body Cleanse Approved, Salads & Dressings, Raw, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 4 c spinach
- 4 c arugula
- 2 blood oranges, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
- 1 orange, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
- 1 avocado, pitted, peeled, and thinly sliced
- 1/4 c raw walnuts, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing
- Juice from 1 blood orange
- 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp. mustard powder
- 1 tsp. grade A maple syrup
- pinch of sea salt
- pinch of pepper
Instructions
For the Salad
- Wash the greens and then pat dry. Add them to a large salad bowl and prepare the remaining ingredients.
- Add the orange rounds, avocado slices, and walnuts (optional) to the salad bowl and toss gently to combine. Set aside while you prepare the dressing.
For the Dressing
- Add all of the ingredients to a small mixing bowl and whisk to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat all of the ingredients.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
