Crisp Citrus & Avocado Fresh Salad with Honey-Lime Vinaigrette

• 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, arugula, and baby spinach), washed and dried
• 2 medium oranges, peeled and segmented
• 1 medium pink grapefruit, peeled and segmented
• 1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted, and sliced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the citrus segments by carefully peeling the oranges and grapefruit, removing as much of the white pith as possible. Segment the fruit by cutting between the membranes to release individual citrus sections.
2. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, citrus segments, sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro.
3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined and emulsified.
4. Drizzle about half of the honey-lime vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to coat the greens and citrus evenly without bruising the avocado.
5. Add the sliced avocado to the salad and carefully fold it in to prevent mashing the slices.
6. Sprinkle the toasted sliced almonds over the top of the salad for a satisfying crunch.
7. Serve immediately with the remaining vinaigrette passed on the side for extra flavor, if desired.

Chef tips

• For easier citrus segmentation, use a sharp paring knife and work over a bowl to catch juice and minimize mess.
• If you don’t have fresh lime juice, fresh lemon juice can be substituted for a slightly different but equally bright flavor.
• To toast almonds, dry roast them in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly golden. Let them cool before adding them to the salad.
• Use ripe but firm avocado to ensure it holds its shape when mixed into the salad. If preparing ahead, add avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and green.