Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
180 | 15g | 2g | 12g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
9g | 3g | 2g | 0.3g |
I’ve always been partial to citrus—perhaps a harkening back to my Louisiana upbringing, perhaps an inherent preference for sharp, vibrant flavors. Today, I want to indulge that preference with a special recipe: Citrus Salad with Oranges and Olives. This is a beautiful dish that not only satisfies the tastebuds but also introduces an array of health benefits to your meal.
A Mélange of Flavors
What I love about the Citrus Salad with Oranges and Olives is its complex assortment of flavors. The star of this dish, oranges, provide a natural sweetness and citrus tang that play wonders on the palate. Complementing them are olives. They bring a savory note, their subtly briny taste adding a unique depth to the salad. Together, they create a delightful flavor profile, marrying sweet and savory in a surprising but pleasing way.
Now, let’s not forget about the addition of thinly sliced red onion. Its crisp texture and slightly pungent flavor accentuate the taste adventure. And of course, the orange zest brings an additional pop of citrus that’s simply irresistible. This salad reminds me of a Sicilian Orange and Olive Salad, a similar dish that also pairs the zesty citrus with the salty olives to create something entirely delightful.
The Healthful Bonanza
As a food lover and blogger, it’s essential for me to highlight that delicious food can also be nutritious. Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C—an antioxidant that aids in skin health and immunity. Olives, on the other hand, are rich in healthy fats that contribute to heart health. Together, they make this salad a powerhouse of nutrients.
If you’re looking for a light and refreshing side dish to complement a hearty meal, this one is a winner. It pairs particularly well with grilled halibut or roast chicken thighs Provençal, making it a versatile addition to your usual repertoire.
Wrapped in the allure of hearty health benefits, a spectrum of delightful flavors, and an unmissable touch of French elegancy and Creole richness, this Citrus Salad with Oranges and Olives is a recipe that I wholeheartedly love—and I’m sure you will too!
What You’ll Need
- 4 large oranges
- 1 cup of olives, pitted and halved
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons of orange zest
- 1/2 cup of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
Step One
Begin by peeling the oranges, making sure to remove all the white pith. Over a large bowl, cut between the membranes to segment the oranges. This process will also catch any juice thrown off. Ensure to remove any seeds you come across.
Step Two
Add the olives and the thinly sliced red onion to the bowl containing the segmented oranges.
Step Three
For the dressing, in a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and orange zest until well combined.
Step Four
Pour the dressing over the orange, olives, and onion mixture. Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over it. Mix all ingredients well together until they are evenly coated with the dressing.
Step Five
Taste, then season with salt and pepper as per your liking. You can let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together or you can serve it immediately. Enjoy this refreshing and vibrant citrus salad with oranges and olives.