Winter Citrus Salad with Radicchio

There is something incredibly satisfying about peeling a winter citrus fruit and seeing the bright jewel like segments pop against the dark days of January. I originally threw this combination together on a whim after returning from the market with a bag full of mismatched colorful fruits. It has since become the only thing I want to eat when the weather turns grey and crisp. The contrast between the bitter radicchio and the sweet oranges is just perfect.

I remember serving this at a dinner party where my friend claimed to hate salads. She took a tentative bite just to be polite and ended up going back for thirds. It was the quietest the table got all night because everyone was too busy enjoying the crunch and zest. Seeing a self proclaimed meat and potatoes person savor raw fennel was a total victory.

Ingredients

• Radicchio: This adds a necessary bitter crunch that balances the sweet citrus beautifully.
• Fennel bulb: Slice it paper thin for a subtle anise flavor and refreshing texture.
• Oranges and Grapefruit: Use a mix of blood oranges or navels for a stunning visual presentation.
• Shallot: A sharp bite that cuts through the richness of the olive oil.
• Pistachios: Toasting them first brings out a deep nutty flavor that elevates the whole dish.
• Vinaigrette components: Honey and Dijon mustard help emulsify the dressing for a smooth finish.

Instructions

Whisk the dressing:

Combine the oil, lemon juice, vinegar, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth.

Prepare the base:

Arrange the thinly sliced radicchio and fennel evenly across a large serving platter.

Add the fruit:

Layer the orange and grapefruit rounds over the vegetables and scatter the shallot slices on top.

Dress and garnish:

Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and finish with toasted nuts and fennel fronds.

Save

One rainy Tuesday, I made this just for myself while listening to the rain hit the kitchen window. It felt like a small act of self care to take the time to segment the citrus so carefully. That simple meal reminded me that cooking for one can be just as special as cooking for a crowd. It turned a gloomy afternoon into something peaceful and bright.

Choosing the Best Citrus

Look for fruits that feel heavy for their size, as that indicates they are full of juice. The skin should be firm and vibrant without any soft spots or discoloration. Don not worry if the exterior looks a little rustic, because the inside is what matters most.

Balancing Flavors

The bitterness of radicchio can be intense if you are not used to it, so the citrus is crucial here. If you find the dressing too sharp, a touch more honey will round it out perfectly. Taste as you go to ensure the sweet and sour notes are in harmony.

Make Ahead Tips

You can slice the vegetables and whisk the dressing hours before you plan to eat. Just keep them separate in the refrigerator until the last minute to prevent sogginess.

• Wash and dry the greens thoroughly in advance.
• Toast the nuts and store them in an airtight container.
• Slice the citrus and store it between paper towels.

Save

This salad is a celebration of winter produce at its finest. I hope it brings a little brightness to your table.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can slice the vegetables and citrus up to 4 hours ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble just before serving to maintain crispness.

→ What other citrus fruits work well?

Blood oranges, Cara Cara oranges, mandarins, or even segmented pomelo would all work beautifully alongside the grapefruit.

→ Is there a substitute for radicchio?

Arugula, endive, or even baby kale can replace radicchio if you prefer a milder bitter flavor profile.

→ Can I make this nut-free?

Absolutely. Simply omit the nuts or replace them with toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds for that essential crunch.

→ What proteins pair well with this salad?

Grilled shrimp, pan-seared scallops, or even sliced duck breast complement the bright citrus and bitter greens beautifully.