A refreshing burst of flavor and color, this Citrus and Olive Salad brings together the vibrant tang of citrus fruits with the savory richness of olives.
Whether you’re serving it as a light appetizer or a side dish, it’s perfect for any meal. With just a handful of ingredients, this salad is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. Let’s dive into how to create this deliciously simple dish that will surely impress!
Why You’ll Love This Citrus and Olive Salad
This salad combines bold flavors and textures that are both surprising and satisfying.
The sweetness and tang of fresh citrus fruits perfectly complement the briny and slightly bitter notes of olives.
The result is a dish that is simultaneously refreshing, savory, and just the right balance of flavors. Whether you’re craving something light for lunch or looking to serve something unique at a dinner gathering, this salad is versatile, quick, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need for a Citrus and Olive Salad
For this simple yet flavorful salad, you’ll need just a few basic ingredients that pack a punch:
- Citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits, or a mix)
- Green olives (or Kalamata olives for a stronger flavor)
- Red onion (for a bit of sharpness)
- Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or mint)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Optional add-ins: Feta cheese, nuts (like almonds), or a dash of honey for sweetness
How to Prepare the Citrus and Olive Salad
Step 1: Prep the Citrus Fruits
Start by peeling and segmenting the citrus fruits. Use a sharp knife to cut off the top and bottom of each fruit, then remove the peel and pith by following the curve of the fruit. Afterward, slice between the membranes to release the segments. You can also use a serrated knife to make this process easier.
Step 2: Slice the Olives and Red Onion
While your citrus segments rest, slice the olives into rounds, and thinly slice the red onion. If you want a milder flavor, you can soak the red onion slices in water for about 10 minutes to mellow out their sharpness.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the citrus segments, sliced olives, and onions. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Gently toss the ingredients together to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Finish the salad by sprinkling freshly chopped herbs on top and, if desired, adding a bit of crumbled feta or some nuts for added texture and flavor. Serve immediately, or chill briefly in the refrigerator for an extra refreshing touch.
Tips for Making the Perfect Citrus and Olive Salad
- Use a mix of citrus fruits: Experiment with oranges, grapefruits, and even tangerines for a dynamic combination of flavors and colors.
- Drain the olives: If using jarred olives, make sure to drain and rinse them to avoid excess brine.
- Don’t overdo the oil: A light drizzle of olive oil is enough to bring everything together without overwhelming the fresh, zesty citrus.
- Let it rest: If possible, let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to marinate and meld together.
Variations You Can Try
- Add Cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a creamy contrast to the salad’s tangy and briny elements.
- Add a Sweet Touch: Drizzle a little honey or agave over the top for a sweet contrast to the saltiness of the olives.
- Nuts for Crunch: Chopped almonds, walnuts, or pine nuts can add a delightful crunch to the salad.
- Spicy Kick: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil can bring an exciting heat to the dish.
Conclusion
This Citrus and Olive Salad is a perfect blend of fresh, bold flavors that will elevate any meal. Simple to make and versatile enough to be customized to your taste, it’s the perfect addition to your salad repertoire. Whether served as a light starter or a side to a main dish, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite for your next meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of olives for this salad?
Yes! While green olives work wonderfully, you can also use Kalamata olives or even black olives, depending on your taste preferences.
2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time (e.g., segment the citrus and slice the olives), then toss them together shortly before serving.
3. What type of citrus fruits work best?
Oranges, grapefruits, or a combination of both work great. You can even experiment with blood oranges for a more vibrant color and flavor.
4. Can I add protein to this salad?
Yes! You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas to make the salad a more filling meal.
5. How long will the salad keep in the fridge?
The salad is best eaten within a few hours of making it. However, if stored in the fridge, it should be consumed within 1-2 days to maintain the freshness of the citrus.
Citrus and Olive Salad
Equipment
- 1 sharp knife (for segmenting citrus and slicing)
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 small bowl (for optional garnishes or dressing)
- 1 Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 2 oranges peeled and segmented
- 1 grapefruit peeled and segmented
- 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup green olives pitted and sliced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled or a handful of almonds (chopped)
Instructions
- Prepare the Citrus: Peel and segment the oranges and grapefruit, removing all the pith. Set the citrus segments aside.
- Slice the Olives and Onion: Thinly slice the red onion and green olives. If you find the onion too strong, you can soak the slices in water for 10 minutes to reduce the sharpness.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the citrus segments, sliced olives, and red onion.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the ingredients gently to coat evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley (and optional feta or almonds) over the salad for extra flavor and texture. Serve immediately or chill briefly for a more refreshing taste.
Notes
- Citrus Variety: You can use a mix of different citrus fruits like tangerines or mandarins for additional flavor variety.
- Olive Choices: Kalamata olives can be substituted for a richer, more robust flavor. Alternatively, black olives work as well.
- Make-Ahead Tip: While the salad is best fresh, you can prep the citrus segments, olives, and onions in advance, then toss everything together just before serving.
- Add a Sweet Touch: If you prefer a sweeter version, a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds makes a great addition.
- Storage: This salad doesn’t store well for long, so enjoy it within a day to maintain the crispness of the citrus.
