Grapefruit Avocado Salad with Pistachios and Arugula
A vibrant, fresh Grapefruit Avocado Salad with crunchy pistachios and peppery arugula that combines zesty citrus, creamy avocado, and nutty texture for a healthy, colorful salad perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or starter.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No cooking required (toasting nuts on stovetop)
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan (if using agave instead of honey)
Salad Ingredients
- 2 medium ripe grapefruits, peeled and segmented
- 2 ripe avocados, halved, pitted, and sliced
- 1/2 cup unsalted, shelled pistachios
- 4 cups fresh arugula, washed and dried
Dressing Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh mint or basil leaves
- Pomegranate seeds, for extra color and sweetness
- Prepare the Grapefruit: Carefully peel the grapefruits, removing all white pith, then segment by cutting between the membranes to release clean, juicy pieces without bitterness.
- Slice the Avocados: Cut the ripe avocados in half, remove the pits, and gently slice the flesh, keeping slices intact for a smooth texture in the salad.
- Toast the Pistachios: Heat a dry pan over medium heat and toast the shelled pistachios for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant, taking care not to burn them.
- Combine the Greens: Place the fresh, washed arugula in a large salad bowl as the base to provide a peppery and fresh foundation.
- Assemble the Salad: Gently layer the grapefruit segments, avocado slices, and toasted pistachios on top of the arugula, handling avocado carefully for an elegant look.
- Dress and Serve: Whisk together olive oil, honey or agave, sea salt, and black pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving to maintain freshness and vibrancy.
Notes
- Choose ripe avocados that give slightly when pressed for best creamy texture.
- Remove all grapefruit pith to avoid bitterness and keep the salad fresh.
- Watch pistachios closely while toasting to prevent burning.
- Add dressing just before serving to prevent avocado browning and salad sogginess.
- Use fresh arugula for optimal peppery flavor, avoiding older bitter leaves.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: grapefruit salad, avocado salad, pistachios, arugula, healthy salad, gluten free, vegan salad, fresh citrus salad, nutritious salad