Winter Citrus Grain Salad

Name: Winter Citrus Grain Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups water; 1 orange, segmented; 1 grapefruit, segmented; 1 cup arugula or spinach; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup almonds, toasted and chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Recipes

A refreshing and vibrant salad that combines the zest of winter citrus with hearty grains, perfect for a nutritious meal.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-29T17:46:28.206Z

This Winter Citrus Grain Salad is not just a feast for the eyes, but also a delightful medley of flavors and textures that can brighten up any chilly day. The combination of grains, fresh citrus, and a light dressing makes it a perfect dish for both lunch and dinner.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bright and refreshing flavors from seasonal citrus
Nutritious grains that keep you feeling full
Versatile and easy to prepare for any occasion

      

The Benefits of Using Seasonal Citrus

Winter citrus fruits, such as oranges and grapefruits, are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. These fruits are high in vitamin C, which is crucial for boosting your immune system during the colder months. Additionally, their natural sweetness and acidity add a refreshing contrast to the earthy flavors of grains in this salad.

Incorporating seasonal produce into your meals not only enhances flavor but also supports local farmers and reduces your carbon footprint. Citrus fruits, in particular, thrive in winter months, making them the ideal choice for a vibrant dish like this grain salad. Enjoying these fruits in their prime ensures you get the best taste and nutritional benefits.

Choosing the Right Grains

Quinoa is a fantastic choice for this winter citrus grain salad, as it is a complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids. This makes it an excellent option for vegetarians and anyone looking to add more plant-based proteins to their diet. Additionally, quinoa is gluten-free, making it a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities.

Feel free to experiment with other hearty grains, such as farro or barley, if you're looking for a different texture or flavor profile. Each grain brings its own unique benefits and can be easily incorporated into this salad, allowing for versatility and creativity in your cooking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This winter citrus grain salad is incredibly versatile and can be served as a main dish or a side. For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to boost the protein content. The bright flavors of the citrus will complement your protein choice beautifully, making it a satisfying and nutritious dish.

Feel free to customize the salad based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Swap arugula for kale, add sliced avocado for creaminess, or toss in some dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this salad your own!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful salad experience:

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water
1 orange, segmented
1 grapefruit, segmented
1 cup arugula or spinach
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup almonds, toasted and chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad:

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Adjust to taste.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, citrus segments, arugula, red onion, and almonds. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to combine.

Serve

Top with crumbled feta cheese and serve immediately. Enjoy your vibrant winter salad!

Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite ingredients!

Nutritional Information

This Winter Citrus Grain Salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of nutrition. Each serving provides a healthy dose of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The combination of quinoa and nuts offers a balance of carbohydrates and healthy fats, ensuring you stay energized throughout the day.

With the addition of citrus fruits, your body benefits from increased hydration and improved skin health. This salad is perfect for those looking to maintain a balanced diet while enjoying delicious flavors that celebrate the season.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. However, to maintain the quality of the greens, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat. This will prevent the greens from wilting and ensure your salad stays crisp and vibrant.

When ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply drizzle with the dressing, toss, and enjoy! You can also add additional fresh ingredients to revive the salad and enhance its flavor, making it feel like a brand-new dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and mix them together just before serving.

→ What other grains can I use?

You can substitute quinoa with farro, barley, or bulgur for different textures.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, if you use quinoa, this salad is naturally gluten-free.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add in any seasonal vegetables you like.