Citrus Beet & Avocado Salad
A salad built from whole, vibrant ingredients is undeniably grounding. This Citrus Beet & Avocado Salad is as nourishing as it is beautiful — a celebration of color, texture, and clean flavor. Ruby-red beets, creamy avocado slices, bright citrus, and delicate microgreens come together in a way that feels both effortless and elevated.
This is the kind of dish that works year-round but feels especially perfect in the transitional seasons — when you crave something fresh yet substantial. The earthy sweetness of cooked beets pairs naturally with juicy orange segments, while avocado adds richness and balance. A sprinkle of pecans brings a satisfying crunch, and a simple drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar ties everything together without overpowering the ingredients.
It’s plant-based, gluten-free, and made entirely from whole foods — proof that wellness doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether served as a light lunch, a first course for a dinner party, or alongside grilled vegetables or crusty bread, this salad delivers elegance and nourishment in every bite.
Sometimes the most memorable dishes are the simplest ones — thoughtfully layered, naturally colorful, and deeply satisfying.
Citrus Beet & Avocado Salad
Ingredients
Serves 2–4
3 cups fresh microgreens
1 large avocado, sliced
2 medium beets, peeled, cooked, and cooled, sliced into rounds
1 large orange, peeled, cut into rounds and quartered
1/4 cup pecans, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1–2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Salt, to taste
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Beets
If not already cooked, boil or roast the peeled beets until fork-tender (about 30–45 minutes depending on size). Let cool completely before slicing into rounds.Layer the Base
Arrange the microgreens on a large serving platter or shallow bowl to create a soft, airy base.Add the Color
Gently layer the sliced beets, avocado slices, and orange pieces over the greens. Distribute evenly for a balanced presentation.Add Crunch
Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top.Dress Simply
Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Start light — you can always add more.Season & Serve
Finish with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately while the avocado is vibrant and fresh.
Why This Salad Works
Earthy + Sweet: Beets and orange naturally complement one another.
Creamy + Crunchy: Avocado and pecans create beautiful texture contrast.
Light but Satisfying: Microgreens keep it delicate while healthy fats make it nourishing.
Health & Wellness Benefits of This Citrus Beet & Avocado Salad
This vibrant salad isn’t just beautiful on the plate — it’s deeply nourishing from the inside out. Every ingredient contributes meaningful health benefits, making this dish a powerhouse of plant-based nutrition.
Beets are rich in nitrates, which help improve blood flow and support heart health by promoting healthy circulation. They’re also high in antioxidants like betalains, which give beets their deep ruby color and help combat inflammation and oxidative stress. Beets support liver function and natural detoxification pathways, making them a grounding, earthy base for this salad.
Microgreens may be small, but they are nutritionally dense. Studies suggest microgreens can contain significantly higher concentrations of vitamins and antioxidants compared to their mature counterparts. They are especially rich in vitamins C, E, and K, as well as phytonutrients that support immune function and cellular health. Adding microgreens elevates this salad from simple to functional nutrition.
Avocado provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which help reduce LDL (“bad”) cholesterol while supporting HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels. These healthy fats also enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) from the greens and beets. Avocados are high in potassium — even more than bananas — which supports healthy blood pressure regulation. Their fiber content promotes gut health and keeps you feeling satisfied longer.
Oranges bring brightness and immune support. Rich in vitamin C, oranges help strengthen the immune system, support collagen production for skin health, and enhance iron absorption from plant-based foods like microgreens. Their natural sweetness balances the earthiness of the beets while providing hydration and additional antioxidants.
Pecans add crunch and nutritional depth. They’re packed with healthy fats, plant-based protein, and important minerals like magnesium and zinc. Pecans are also high in antioxidants, which support brain health and reduce inflammation. A small handful goes a long way in adding both texture and sustained energy.
The simple dressing of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar further enhances the wellness profile. Olive oil is a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet and is associated with reduced risk of heart disease and improved metabolic health. Its anti-inflammatory compounds, particularly oleocanthal, support overall cardiovascular wellness. Balsamic vinegar contributes beneficial polyphenols and helps balance blood sugar when paired with whole foods.
Together, this salad offers a balanced combination of fiber, healthy fats, antioxidants, and plant-based phytonutrients. It supports digestion, heart health, immune resilience, and sustained energy — all while remaining light and refreshing.
Beyond physical benefits, there’s also a wellness component in the experience itself. Eating colorful, whole foods can positively influence mood and encourage mindful eating habits. The vibrant reds, greens, and oranges naturally signal nutrient diversity — a simple visual reminder that food can be both healing and joyful.
This salad is proof that elegance and nourishment can coexist beautifully in one bowl.
