For most of the last two weeks, it’s been that particular variety of nose-biting cold that orders me immediately back beneath the covers with a pair of wool socks and a heating pad. Ben and I have also been actively engaged in a silent but feisty thermostat war—I turn it up, he turns it down. This (and the “right way” to load the dishwasher) may be the great, enduring debate of our marriage. However, after weeks of bitter cold, one thing we can seem to agree on is that we need a break from the usual comfort foods of winter (like this White Chicken Chili or Italian Mac and Cheese). Enter avocado couscous grapefruit salad. While much of the produce that is in season in winter reflects a natural craving for cold-weather comfort, citrus offers a complete counterpoint. Bright lemons (for Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup), fragrant tangerines, and zippy grapefruits are a total departure from the heavier, starchier items you’ll typically find in a grocery store during winter, and I couldn’t be more grateful for their light, vibrant presence. This grapefruit salad with couscous and avocado is a delightful reminder that there is radiance and light to be found in every season (even if it’s often hiding behind a cozy dish of Chicken and Rice Casserole).
How to Make Avocado Couscous Grapefruit Salad
For a refreshing break from heavy comfort foods and the cold, grey gloom of winter, try this bright and refreshing avocado couscous grapefruit salad with honey-lime dressing (for another crisp winter salad, try this wholesome Harvest Salad.)
The Ingredients
Couscous. While couscous is often lumped into the grain or rice category, it’s actually a type of pasta. I like to reach for whole wheat couscous, when possible, for this salad (and this Moroccan Couscous) to sneak in some extra whole grains. Grapefruit. Juicy, tart, and packed with vitamin C, grapefruit are an ideal way to beat the winter blues and wake up your taste buds. (Grapefruit is also my fav for Fizzy Grapefruit Margaritas.)White Beans. Add bulk, protein, and fiber which makes this healthy salad recipe filling and satisfying. (If you love salads with beans, don’t miss this Three Bean Salad!)Avocado. For a dose of healthy monounsaturated fats and creaminess. Feta. Contrast the sweet and tart grapefruit by adding a little saltiness (also featured in this Israeli Couscous Salad).Mint + Cilantro. For a final flourish of color and freshness.Olive Oil. Our base for the simple honey-lime vinaigrette.Honey. Contrasts and balances the acidity of the lime juice with a lovely sweetness.Lime Juice. For a hit of extra-bright citrus flavor and vitamin C.
The Directions
Storage Tips
To Store. Leftover grapefruit salad will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tools Used to Make This Recipe
Grapefruit Knife. One of the few single-use kitchen gadgets I wholeheartedly endorse.
Whatever your weekend plans, wishing you a wonderful one filled with sunny flavors and some actual sunshine to go along with them too!
More Bright and Fresh Salad Recipes
Cucumber Tomato Avocado SalsaRamen SaladStrawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed DressingMediterranean Chickpea SaladCreamy Cucumber SaladWatermelon Feta Salad with Mint Avocado and Lime
