Name: The Best Asian Blood Orange Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 3 blood oranges; 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or romaine); 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup carrots, julienned; 1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced into half-moons; 1/2 cup edamame, cooked and cooled; 2 scallions, chopped; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; 1 tbsp sesame seeds; 1/4 cup sliced almonds or cashews Dressing: 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Asian Blood Orange Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together the sweet citrus flavors of blood oranges with a delightful mix of Asian-inspired ingredients. The combination of crunchy greens, zesty dressing, and nutty toppings creates a perfectly balanced dish that is as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, an elegant appetizer, or a side dish to complement your meal, this salad is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Blood oranges
Mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, or romaine)
Red cabbage
Carrots
Cucumber
Edamame
Scallions
Cilantro
Sesame seeds
Sliced almonds or cashews
Rice vinegar
Soy sauce or tamari
Sesame oil
Honey or maple syrup
Fresh ginger
Garlic
Red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper

Directions

Prepare the Blood Oranges: Peel the blood oranges and slice them into rounds or segments, removing any seeds. Set aside.
Chop the Vegetables: Thinly slice the red cabbage, julienne the carrots, and cut the cucumber into thin half-moons. Chop the scallions and cilantro.
Cook the Edamame: If using frozen edamame, steam or boil them according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce or tamari, sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, minced ginger, minced garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, red cabbage, carrots, cucumber, edamame, scallions, and cilantro. Gently toss.
Add the Blood Oranges: Arrange the blood orange slices on top of the salad.
Sprinkle the Toppings: Garnish with sesame seeds, sliced almonds, or cashews.
Drizzle with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy this refreshing and flavorful salad while fresh!

Variations

Protein Boost: Add grilled shrimp, tofu, or shredded chicken for a more filling meal.
Nut-Free Option: Swap nuts for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
Citrus Mix: Combine blood oranges with grapefruit or mandarin oranges for a unique twist.
Extra Crunch: Add crispy wonton strips or toasted coconut flakes.
Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add sliced Thai chili for more heat.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes (if cooking edamame)
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. Keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the ingredients will change.

FAQs

How do I pick the best blood oranges?

Look for blood oranges that feel firm and heavy for their size with smooth, unblemished skin. The deeper the red blush on the peel, the richer the color inside.

Can I use regular oranges instead of blood oranges?

Yes, you can substitute with navel oranges, mandarins, or cara cara oranges, though the unique flavor and color of blood oranges make this salad special.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes! Just be sure to use tamari instead of soy sauce for a completely gluten-free version.

What can I use instead of soy sauce?

Coconut aminos or low-sodium tamari make great substitutes for soy sauce in this recipe.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but wait to assemble and dress the salad until just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.

How can I make the dressing creamier?

Add a spoonful of tahini or peanut butter to the dressing for a rich and creamy texture.

What greens work best for this salad?

A mix of arugula, spinach, romaine, or even kale works well for this salad. Use whatever fresh greens you prefer.

Can I add cheese to this salad?

Feta or goat cheese can add a tangy contrast, though it’s not traditionally used in Asian-inspired salads.

What pairs well with this salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled fish, tofu, or Asian-style noodle dishes.

How do I store extra blood oranges?

Store whole blood oranges in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If peeled and segmented, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Conclusion

This Asian Blood Orange Salad is a refreshing, colorful, and nutritious dish that brings together sweet citrus, crunchy vegetables, and a flavorful dressing. Whether you’re serving it as a light meal, an appetizer, or a side dish, this salad is sure to brighten up your table with its bold flavors and vibrant colors. Try it today and enjoy a delightful fusion of fresh ingredients!

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