Citrus Grove Orange Salad

Citrus Grove Orange Salad Recipe with Tomatoes and Arugula

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Citrus Grove Orange Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines the juicy sweetness of oranges with the tangy flavor of tomatoes. This salad is perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish to complement any main course.

History

The Citrus Grove Orange Salad is a modern twist on the classic tomato and orange salad, which has been enjoyed in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. This updated version adds watercress and basil for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.

Ingredients

3 large ripe tomatoes, cored
3 large navel oranges, peeled
2 bunches arugula or watercress
1 tbsp plus 2 tsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 tbsp plus 2 tsp balsamic vinegar
salt and pepper, to taste
3 tbsp slivered fresh basil leaves

How to prepare

Halve the tomatoes lengthwise, then cut them into thin wedges. Set them aside in a bowl.
Thinly slice the oranges crosswise and set them aside in another bowl.
Place the arugula leaves in a bowl. Just before serving, toss them with 1 tbsp of oil and 1 tbsp of vinegar. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Drizzle the tomatoes and oranges with 1 tsp of oil and 1 tsp of vinegar each. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Divide the arugula among 6 salad plates.
Arrange orange slices in the center of each salad.
Surround the orange slices with tomato wedges.
Sprinkle each salad with basil.

Variations

Add some crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy touch.
Swap out the watercress for arugula or spinach.
Try adding some toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use ripe, juicy tomatoes and oranges for the best flavor.

- Be sure to toss the arugula with the oil and vinegar just before serving to prevent wilting.

- Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite herbs or additional ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Citrus Grove Orange Salad as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or enjoy it on its own as a light and refreshing meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making the Citrus Grove Orange Salad is to slice the tomatoes and oranges thinly and arrange them beautifully on the plate. Toss the arugula with the dressing just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have watercress, you can use arugula or spinach instead. You can also swap out the balsamic vinegar for red wine vinegar or lemon juice.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the components of the Citrus Grove Orange Salad ahead of time and assemble it just before serving. Keep the arugula separate from the tomatoes and oranges to prevent wilting.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the orange slices and tomato wedges in a circular pattern on the plate for a visually appealing presentation. Sprinkle the basil on top for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or a simple pasta dish. A glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with a splash of citrus would be a refreshing accompaniment.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

The Citrus Grove Orange Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The arugula may wilt slightly, so it's best to eat it right away.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of the Citrus Grove Orange Salad contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

The Citrus Grove Orange Salad is a low-carb dish, with approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

Each serving of the Citrus Grove Orange Salad contains about 7 grams of healthy fats, primarily from the olive oil used in the dressing.

Proteins

This salad is a low-protein dish, with only about 2 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

The Citrus Grove Orange Salad is rich in vitamin C, thanks to the oranges and tomatoes. It also provides a good amount of vitamin A and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe is free of common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten. However, individuals with sensitivities should always check labels and ingredients to be safe.

Summary

Overall, the Citrus Grove Orange Salad is a nutritious and light dish that is perfect for a healthy meal or side dish. It is low in calories and carbs, while providing essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

The Citrus Grove Orange Salad is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of juicy oranges, ripe tomatoes, and peppery arugula. This salad is perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a side dish to complement any main course. Enjoy the vibrant colors and flavors of this simple yet elegant dish!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be cherished in my heart. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret at her beautiful home in the countryside. As we sat in her sunlit kitchen sipping tea, she suddenly jumped up with a gleam in her eye.

"Mary, I have a special treat for you today. I want to share with you a recipe that has been passed down through my family for generations. It's a Citrus Grove Orange Salad that will transport you to a sunny orchard with every bite."

I was intrigued and eagerly joined Margaret in the kitchen as she gathered the ingredients. Fresh oranges, grapefruits, and lemons filled the room with their bright, citrusy scent. Margaret explained that the key to this salad was the combination of sweet and tart flavors, balanced with a hint of mint and honey.

As we peeled and sliced the fruit, Margaret shared the story behind the recipe. It had been created by her great-grandmother, who lived on a citrus grove in Florida. She would often host lavish picnics under the shade of the orange trees, serving this refreshing salad to her guests on hot summer days.

I was captivated by the history and tradition woven into this simple dish. Margaret's hands moved with grace and precision as she arranged the fruit in a beautiful pattern on a platter. A drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of fresh mint leaves completed the masterpiece.

The first bite of the Citrus Grove Orange Salad was pure magic. The juicy oranges and tangy grapefruit danced on my taste buds, while the hint of mint added a refreshing twist. It was as if I could taste the sunshine and sea breeze of the Florida grove in every bite.

Margaret and I savored the salad in silence, lost in the moment of pure delight. As the last slice of orange disappeared from the platter, I knew that this recipe would become a treasured part of my own culinary repertoire.

Over the years, I have made the Citrus Grove Orange Salad countless times, each one a tribute to Margaret's friendship and the rich history behind the dish. I have shared it with family and friends at gatherings and celebrations, always met with smiles and requests for the recipe.

I have added my own twist to the salad, experimenting with different citrus fruits and herbs to create new variations. But no matter how I serve it, the Citrus Grove Orange Salad remains a timeless classic that never fails to bring joy and memories of sunny summer days.

As I sit here writing this story, I can almost taste the sweet tang of oranges and the cool minty freshness of the salad. The memories of that day with Margaret in her sunlit kitchen flood back to me, warming my heart and filling me with gratitude for the simple pleasures of good food and dear friends.

The recipe for the Citrus Grove Orange Salad is more than just a list of ingredients and instructions. It is a story of love, friendship, and tradition that will always hold a special place in my heart. And I hope that as you make this salad for yourself and your loved ones, you will feel the same sense of joy and connection that it has brought to me.