This Citrus and Avocado Watercress Salad is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish that combines zesty oranges with creamy avocado for a refreshing flavor contrast.
High in plant-based protein and fiber, yet low in saturated fat and carbs, it’s a heart-healthy choice.
Quick to assemble and perfect for everyday meals, this salad makes a satisfying, light lunch, snack, or side dish that’s both colorful and nourishing.
15-Minute Citrus and Avocado Watercress Salad
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 medium bowl (for dressing)
- 1 whisk or fork
- 1 knife
- 1 Cutting board
Ingredients
- 4 cups watercress lightly packed
- 1 cara cara orange peeled and sliced
- 1 blood orange peeled and sliced
- ⅓ cup shelled edamame
- ½ cup cucumber thinly sliced
- ⅓ cup cole slaw mix shredded cabbage, red cabbage, carrots
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Zest and juice of 1 medium blood orange
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup red onion minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Watercress: Start by washing 4 cups of fresh watercress thoroughly under cold running water. Remove any thick stems or wilted leaves to ensure only crisp, tender greens remain. Pat the watercress dry using a clean kitchen towel or a salad spinner. Transfer the greens to a large serving bowl, which will serve as the main base for your salad.
- Slice the Citrus: Peel 1 cara cara orange and 1 blood orange, carefully removing all the white pith to prevent bitterness. Slice each orange into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference. Arrange the orange slices evenly over the watercress to create a colorful, appealing layer of bright citrus that will provide both flavor and visual interest.
- Prepare the Edamame: Measure out 1/3 cup of shelled edamame. If using frozen edamame, rinse them under warm water and allow them to thaw completely. Add the edamame directly to the salad bowl. These little green gems provide a boost of plant-based protein and a slightly nutty texture that complements the crisp greens and juicy oranges.
- Slice the Cucumber: Take 1/2 cup of cucumber and slice it into thin rounds or half-moons. The cucumber adds a refreshing crunch and subtle, cool flavor to balance the sweetness of the oranges. Scatter the cucumber slices evenly across the salad.
- Add the Cole Slaw Mix: Measure 1/3 cup of shredded cole slaw mix, which typically includes green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots. Sprinkle it over the other ingredients. This mix adds color, crunch, and fiber, enhancing the salad’s texture and overall nutritional profile.
- Prepare the Dressing Base: In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1/3 cup olive oil and 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar. Whisk the two together until fully emulsified, creating a smooth and cohesive base for the dressing.
- Add Citrus and Lemon Flavors: To the dressing, add the zest and juice of 1 medium blood orange along with the juice of 1 lemon. These fresh citrus juices add brightness and a slight tang, enhancing the natural flavors of the salad ingredients.
- Incorporate Aromatics and Seasonings: Add 1/4 cup finely minced red onion to the dressing for a mild, savory bite. Stir in 2 teaspoons dried oregano, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Whisk all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure the flavors meld together into a balanced, flavorful dressing.
- Dress the Salad: Pour about half of the prepared dressing evenly over the salad ingredients. Using clean hands or salad tongs, gently toss the salad to coat all ingredients lightly without bruising the delicate watercress or oranges. Taste a small portion to check for seasoning and adjust if necessary.
- Serve and Reserve Extra Dressing: Transfer the salad to individual serving plates or leave it in the large bowl for communal serving. Reserve the remaining dressing for those who may want to add extra or for storing alongside leftovers. This ensures every bite can be perfectly balanced with just the right amount of dressing.
- Optional Finishing Touches: For added flair and texture, you may garnish the salad with extra orange zest, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil, or a few additional edamame beans. Serve immediately to enjoy the vibrant colors and crisp textures at their best.
Notes
- Use fresh, tender watercress for the best texture and flavor.
- Cara cara oranges provide sweetness while blood oranges add a tangy, vibrant contrast.
- Edamame adds plant-based protein; make sure they are fully thawed if frozen.
- Gently toss the salad to prevent bruising delicate greens and citrus slices.
- Dressing can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge to save time.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to taste, especially if the oranges are particularly sweet.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be lightly refrigerated for a few hours.
Chef’s Secrets For Maximum Flavor
To make this salad truly shine, choose the freshest ingredients possible.
Look for crisp, vibrant watercress with no yellowing leaves, and oranges that are firm and fragrant.
When slicing the citrus, remove all pith to avoid bitterness and enhance the natural sweetness.
Use a light hand when tossing the salad to keep the greens and citrus intact.
For an extra depth of flavor, let the dressing sit for 10–15 minutes before adding it to the salad; this allows the herbs, citrus juices, and olive oil to meld, creating a more harmonious taste experience.
A small pinch of sea salt sprinkled on the orange slices just before serving can also elevate the citrus notes beautifully.
Serving Suggestions For Every Meal
This Citrus and Avocado Watercress Salad is incredibly versatile.
Serve it as a refreshing starter before dinner, or pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a light and satisfying main course.
It also works perfectly as a side dish for brunch or a picnic. For an elevated presentation, layer the salad in a clear glass bowl or individual plates, allowing the vibrant colors of oranges, avocado, and watercress to show.
Adding a few toasted nuts or seeds, such as almonds or pumpkin seeds, can introduce crunch and additional nutrients, making this salad even more exciting and hearty.
Storage Tips To Keep Fresh
This salad is best enjoyed fresh to maintain the crispness of the watercress and juiciness of the citrus.
If you need to prepare ahead, store the salad ingredients separately from the dressing.
Keep the greens in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture and prevent wilting.
Citrus slices and avocado should be stored in small containers with a squeeze of lemon juice to prevent browning.
The dressing can be refrigerated in a sealed jar for up to three days.
Combine everything just before serving to ensure the salad remains vibrant and crisp.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this salad ahead?
Yes, but for best results, prepare the dressing and salad components separately. Combine them just before serving to maintain the freshness of watercress and prevent the citrus from making the greens soggy.
2. Can I substitute the oranges?
Absolutely! If blood or cara cara oranges are unavailable, navel oranges or tangerines can be used. Each will slightly change the flavor profile, but the salad will still be vibrant and delicious.
3. How do I prevent avocado from browning?
To keep avocado looking fresh, slice it last and toss it with a small amount of lemon juice. Storing it separately from the salad until serving can also help maintain its color.
4. Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Yes, adding grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even boiled eggs can turn this salad into a satisfying main course while maintaining its light, healthy nature.
5. What if I don’t have red wine vinegar?
You can substitute apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, or even a mild balsamic vinegar. Each will slightly alter the flavor but will still complement the citrus and avocado beautifully.
