Vegetable Salad with Oranges

Vegetable Salad with Oranges Recipe from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Servings: 4

Introduction

This refreshing Vegetable Salad with Oranges is a perfect combination of crisp lettuce and juicy oranges, drizzled with a tangy olive oil dressing. It's a light and healthy dish that is perfect for a quick lunch or as a side dish for a dinner party.

History

This recipe is inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, where the combination of fresh vegetables and citrus fruits is a common practice. Oranges are often used in salads to add a burst of flavor and a touch of sweetness. The addition of olive oil brings a rich and savory element to the dish.

Ingredients

2 bunches of lettuce
2 oranges
12 tbsp of olive oil

How to prepare

Carefully wash the lettuce and place it in a colander to drain.
Perform this step just before serving to enhance the taste of the salad.
Peel the oranges.
Hold the peeled fruits over a bowl to collect the juices. Use a sharp knife to slide along one side of each membrane, then along the opposite side of the segment to free it from both sides of the membrane.
Drop each segment into the bowl and continue with the next one.
If peeling the fruits becomes too difficult, you can cut them crossways into slices.
Season with olive oil and salt.
If desired, you can also add the orange juice to the olive oil.

Variations

Add some sliced almonds or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
Mix in some feta cheese or goat cheese for a creamy and tangy flavor.
Drizzle with a balsamic glaze or honey for a touch of sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use fresh and crisp lettuce for the best texture and flavor.

- Be sure to drain the lettuce well after washing to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

- Peeling the oranges can be a bit tricky, but taking the time to remove the membranes will result in a more visually appealing salad.

- Season the salad with salt and olive oil to enhance the flavors of the ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served as a light lunch or as a side dish for grilled chicken or fish. It pairs well with a glass of white wine or a citrus-infused cocktail.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to wash and drain the lettuce well to remove any dirt or debris.

- Use a sharp knife to peel and segment the oranges for a clean and professional presentation.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of lettuce for this salad, such as romaine, arugula, or spinach.

- Feel free to substitute the oranges with grapefruit or tangerines for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the lettuce and oranges ahead of time, but be sure to dress the salad just before serving to prevent wilting.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates for a beautiful presentation. - Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp.

- Serve with a side of crusty bread or a light soup for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- Approximately 150 calories per serving

Carbohydrates

- Lettuce: 2g per serving

- Oranges: 12g per serving

- Olive oil: 0g per serving

Fats

- Olive oil: 12g per serving

Proteins

- Lettuce: 1g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Oranges are rich in vitamin C, providing over 100% of the recommended daily intake per serving.

- Lettuce is a good source of vitamin K, providing over 50% of the recommended daily intake per serving.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free. However, individuals with allergies to citrus fruits or olive oil should avoid this dish.

Summary

This Vegetable Salad with Oranges is a low-calorie dish that is rich in vitamin C and vitamin K. It is a healthy and refreshing option for those looking to add more fruits and vegetables to their diet.

Summary

This Vegetable Salad with Oranges is a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for a quick lunch or as a side dish for a dinner party. With a burst of citrus flavor and a tangy olive oil dressing, it's a healthy and delicious option for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Vegetable Salad with Oranges. It was a warm summer day, and I had been invited to a friend's house for a potluck dinner. As the guests started arriving, I noticed a beautiful bowl of vibrant, colorful salad sitting on the table. The combination of fresh vegetables and juicy oranges caught my eye, and I couldn't wait to try it.

I asked my friend where she had found the recipe, and she told me that her grandmother had passed it down to her. She explained that it was a family favorite, and she had been making it for years. Intrigued by the unique combination of ingredients, I asked if she would be willing to share the recipe with me. She happily agreed and even offered to show me how to make it.

As we worked together in the kitchen, my friend walked me through each step of the recipe. She started by cutting up a variety of colorful vegetables - crisp bell peppers, crunchy cucumbers, and sweet cherry tomatoes. She then showed me how to peel and segment juicy oranges, explaining that their bright, citrusy flavor would add a refreshing twist to the salad.

Next, she tossed the vegetables and oranges together in a large bowl and drizzled them with a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar, and a touch of honey. She added a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a pinch of salt and pepper, then gave everything a good toss to combine.

As we sat down to enjoy the salad, I marveled at how the flavors and textures all came together perfectly. The crunch of the vegetables, the sweetness of the oranges, and the tangy dressing created a harmony of taste that was truly delicious. I knew then and there that I had to add this recipe to my collection.

Over the years, I have made the Vegetable Salad with Oranges countless times, each time adjusting and perfecting the recipe to suit my own taste. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all raved about its fresh and vibrant flavors. It has become a staple at potlucks and gatherings, always receiving compliments and requests for the recipe.

As I look back on that warm summer day when I first learned to make this salad, I am filled with gratitude for my friend and her grandmother. Their generosity in sharing this treasured recipe with me has brought me so much joy and satisfaction over the years. I am reminded of the power of food to connect us, to bring us together and create lasting memories.

And so, I continue to make the Vegetable Salad with Oranges, always remembering that sense of amazement I felt that first time I saw the recipe. It serves as a reminder of the beauty and simplicity of good food, and the joy that comes from sharing it with others.