Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad is a delightful combination of flavors perfect for summer gatherings or a fresh weeknight dinner. This recipe showcases the zesty brightness of citrus in a creamy dressing that pairs beautifully with sweet grilled pineapple, making this salad both refreshing and satisfying. The vibrant colors and textures will appeal to everyone at the table, whether it’s a casual lunch or an elegant dinner party.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing Flavor – The combination of citrus juices creates a bright, tangy dressing that enhances every bite.
• Easy to Prepare – With minimal prep and cook time, this salad can be ready in just 25 minutes!
• Versatile Ingredients – Enjoy it as a main dish or a side; it pairs well with grilled meats or on its own.
• Healthy Choice – Packed with fresh fruits, greens, and healthy fats, this salad is nutritious and delicious.
• Visual Appeal – The colorful ingredients make this dish not just tasty but also beautiful on your table.

Tools and Preparation

To make preparing your Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad seamless, gather the essential tools listed below. Having the right equipment will help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mason jar
• Immersion blender
• Grill
• Basting brush
• Salad bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jar – Perfect for mixing and storing your dressing; easy to shake and pour.
• Immersion blender – Ensures a smooth, creamy texture for your dressing without needing additional dishes.
• Grill – Adds a wonderful smoky flavor to the pineapple and corn, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Citrus Dressing

• 1/2 cup fresh squeezed orange juice
• 1/4 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
• 1 Tablespoon Califia unsweetened almond milk
• 1/4 cup loosely packed fresh parsley
• 3/4 cup olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 Tablespoon minced shallots
• Pinch of salt

For the Salad

• 4 slices pineapple
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 corn on the cob
• 1/2 cup pepitas
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 2-3 cups fresh mixed greens

How to Make Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

1. Combine all dressing ingredients in a mason jar.
2. Use an immersion blender to blend until smooth.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

1. Heat your grill to medium high/high heat.
2. Ensure that grates are clean before placing food on them.

Step 3: Grill the Pineapple

1. Lightly brush each slice of pineapple with olive oil.
2. Sear pineapple directly over flame for 2 minutes on each side until grill marks appear.

Step 4: Grill the Corn

1. Place corn on the cob directly over heat.
2. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side until slightly charred.
3. Remove corn from grill and let cool before cutting off kernels.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

1. Take two salad bowls and fill each with mixed greens.
2. Add two slices of grilled pineapple to each bowl.
3. Divide corn kernels, pepitas, blueberries, and avocado evenly between both bowls.

Step 6: Dress Your Salad

1. Drizzle as much creamy citrus dressing as desired over salads.
2. Toss gently if you prefer more even distribution.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Dig into your refreshing Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad and savor every bite!

How to Serve Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

This refreshing salad pairs beautifully with various dishes and can be enjoyed in multiple ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

As a Light Lunch

• Serve the salad on its own for a quick and nutritious lunch. The combination of grilled pineapple and creamy dressing will keep you satisfied without feeling heavy.

With Grilled Chicken or Turkey

• Add slices of grilled chicken or turkey breast atop the salad for a protein boost. The savory flavor complements the sweet citrus dressing perfectly.

As a Side Dish

• Use it as a vibrant side dish for barbecues or picnics. Its bright colors and flavors make it an appealing addition to any summer spread.

Topped with Crumbled Feta or Goat Cheese

• For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese over the salad. This adds creaminess that enhances the dish without overpowering it.

How to Perfect Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

Achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad is easy with these helpful tips.

• Use fresh juices: Freshly squeezed orange and lemon juice provide a brighter flavor than bottled options. This enhances the overall taste of your dressing.

• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dressing, consider adding a touch of honey or maple syrup to balance the acidity from the citrus juices.

• Grill at the right temperature: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. This ensures perfect grill marks and caramelization on your pineapple.

• Experiment with herbs: While parsley adds freshness, try incorporating other herbs like cilantro or basil for different flavor profiles in your dressing.

• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge for 10-15 minutes after assembling lets flavors meld together, enhancing overall taste.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad can create a delightful meal. Here are some great options:

1. Quinoa Pilaf: A light and fluffy quinoa pilaf mixed with vegetables makes for a hearty yet healthy side.

2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Seasoned roasted sweet potatoes bring warmth and earthiness that contrasts well with the salad’s brightness.

3. Cucumber Tomato Salad: A refreshing cucumber and tomato salad tossed in olive oil offers additional crunch and hydration.

4. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella on skewers provide an easy-to-eat option that complements fruity flavors.

5. Grilled Veggie Platter: A medley of grilled seasonal vegetables adds smokiness and depth, balancing out the sweetness from the salad.

6. Herb Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with fresh herbs creates a light side that’s both satisfying and aromatic.

7. Corn on the Cob: Freshly grilled corn is sweet and pairs well with both pineapple and creamy elements in the salad.

8. Chickpea Salad: A protein-rich chickpea salad with spices packs a flavorful punch while remaining healthy and satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a salad can seem simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for when preparing the Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad.

• Skipping the fresh ingredients: Fresh fruits and veggies make all the difference. Always opt for fresh over canned or frozen for the best flavor and texture.
• Not preheating the grill: A cold grill will not give you those beautiful char marks on your pineapple. Make sure your grill is hot before adding any ingredients.
• Ignoring seasoning: A pinch of salt can elevate your dressing and salad. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning as needed!
• Overcrowding the grill: If you place too much on the grill at once, it could lower the temperature. Grill in batches to ensure even cooking.
• Making too much dressing: This dressing is rich and flavorful. Start with less and add more as needed to avoid overpowering your salad.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover salad or dressing in airtight containers.
• The creamy citrus dressing will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Grilled pineapple can be stored for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

• It is not recommended to freeze the salad due to the texture changes in fresh ingredients.
• The dressing can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before use.

Reheating Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm grilled pineapple slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently; do not let it boil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare most components ahead of time. However, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep greens fresh.

What can I substitute if I don’t have pepitas?

You can easily replace pepitas with sunflower seeds or chopped nuts for added crunch.

How do I customize my Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad?

Feel free to add other fruits like strawberries or mangoes. You can also include different greens or proteins such as grilled chicken or tofu.

What should I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats or as a light main dish. It complements summer BBQs perfectly!

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad is a delightful combination of flavors that transforms fresh ingredients into a vibrant dish. Its versatility allows for easy customization based on your preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and enjoy experimenting with different toppings!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

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• Author: Dian
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad is the ultimate summer dish that harmonizes refreshing flavors with vibrant colors. This delightful salad features a tangy, creamy dressing made from freshly squeezed citrus that perfectly complements sweet, smoky grilled pineapple. Ideal for summer gatherings or a light weeknight dinner, this recipe is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. The combination of fresh greens, juicy fruit, and healthy fats creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Ready in just 25 minutes, this salad is both easy to prepare and versatile enough to pair with your favorite grilled meats or enjoyed as a stand-alone dish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/2 cup fresh squeezed orange juice
• 1/4 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
• 1 Tablespoon Califia unsweetened almond milk
• 1/4 cup loosely packed fresh parsley
• 3/4 cup olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 Tablespoon minced shallots
• Pinch of salt
• 4 slices pineapple
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 corn on the cob
• 1/2 cup pepitas
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 2–3 cups fresh mixed greens

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Instructions

1. Combine all dressing ingredients in a mason jar.
2. Use an immersion blender to blend until smooth.
3. Heat your grill to medium high/high heat.
4. Lightly brush each slice of pineapple with olive oil.
5. Sear pineapple directly over flame for 2 minutes on each side until grill marks appear.
6. Place corn on the cob directly over heat.
7. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side until slightly charred.
8. Remove corn from grill and let cool before cutting off kernels.
9. Take two salad bowls and fill each with mixed greens.
10. Add two slices of grilled pineapple to each bowl.
11. Divide corn kernels, pepitas, blueberries, and avocado evenly between both bowls.
12. Drizzle as much creamy citrus dressing as desired over salads.
13. Toss gently if you prefer more even distribution.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 26g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg