Winter Citrus Grain Salad

Name: Winter Citrus Grain Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups water; 1 large orange, segmented; 1 large grapefruit, segmented; 1 cup pomegranate seeds; 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

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

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-29T14:58:27.976Z

This Winter Citrus Grain Salad brings a burst of color and freshness to your table, making it a perfect dish for winter gatherings or a healthy lunch option. The combination of grains and citrus not only offers a delightful crunch but also packs a punch of nutrients.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bright and refreshing citrus flavors brighten up your winter meals.
Nutritious grains provide a satisfying base, making this salad filling and healthy.
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep or serving at gatherings.

      

Nutritional Benefits of Citrus

Citrus fruits are not only delicious but also packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Oranges and grapefruits are particularly high in vitamin C, which is crucial for boosting the immune system, especially during the colder months. The antioxidants in citrus help combat inflammation and support overall health.

Additionally, the fiber found in citrus fruits aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness, making this Winter Citrus Grain Salad a perfect addition to your healthy eating plan. The vibrant colors of the citrus segments also indicate their rich nutrient profile, making this salad not just tasty but visually appealing as well.

Versatility of Grains in Salads

Using grains in salads adds texture and heartiness, making them more satisfying. Quinoa, for instance, is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. This makes it a fantastic choice for vegetarians and those looking to increase their protein intake without meat.

Moreover, grains like quinoa can absorb flavors beautifully, allowing them to complement the zesty citrus and sweet pomegranate in this salad. You can also experiment with other grains such as farro or barley for a different taste and texture, making this salad endlessly versatile for any occasion.

Meal Prep and Serving Ideas

This Winter Citrus Grain Salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

It's also a crowd-pleaser at gatherings. The beautiful colors and refreshing taste make it an attractive side dish or a light main course. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or serve it alongside other seasonal dishes to create a vibrant winter feast.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a vibrant salad.

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water
1 large orange, segmented
1 large grapefruit, segmented
1 cup pomegranate seeds
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to customize this salad with your favorite nuts or cheeses!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Winter Citrus Grain Salad.

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it stand for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Prepare the Citrus

While the quinoa is cooking, segment the orange and grapefruit, removing any pith. Set aside.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, citrus segments, pomegranate seeds, parsley, and almonds. Toss gently to combine.

Dress the Salad

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat. Top with feta cheese before serving.

Enjoy your vibrant Winter Citrus Grain Salad as a side or a main dish!

Tips for Perfect Quinoa

To achieve fluffy quinoa, it's essential to rinse it thoroughly before cooking. This removes the natural coating called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. After rinsing, ensure you use the right water-to-quinoa ratio—generally, two parts water to one part quinoa works best.

Once cooked, let the quinoa sit covered for a few minutes after removing it from heat. This step allows it to steam and become even fluffier. Fluffing with a fork rather than a spoon will also help separate the grains, enhancing the texture of your salad.

Choosing the Right Citrus

When selecting citrus fruits for this salad, look for ones that feel heavy for their size, indicating juiciness. The skin should be smooth and free from blemishes. For the best flavor, choose seasonal fruits—winter is the peak season for oranges and grapefruits.

Feel free to mix and match different citrus varieties. Blood oranges, tangerines, or even mandarins can add unique flavors and colors to your salad, making it even more exciting. Just remember to balance the sweetness with the tanginess for a well-rounded flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours ahead and keep it in the refrigerator. Just add the dressing right before serving to keep it fresh.

→ What other grains can I use?

You can substitute quinoa with farro, barley, or even brown rice for a different texture and flavor.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

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

→ How can I make this salad vegan?

To make it vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese.