This vibrant Avocado Grapefruit Salad is a light and refreshing dish that perfectly balances creamy, tart, and spicy Caribbean flavors. Inspired by the abundance of fruit trees in island backyards, this simple recipe brings together ripe avocados, juicy grapefruit, and a subtle kick from bird’s eye pepper. It’s an easy, no-cook option ideal for warm-weather meals or quick lunches, and it’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and packed with nourishing ingredients. Whether you’re embracing a healthier lifestyle or just looking for something bright and satisfying, this Caribbean-inspired salad is a flavorful way to enjoy the freshness of local produce.
Ingredient Guide
- Avocado: Choose ripe avocados for a creamy texture that balances the tartness of grapefruit.
- Red Onion: Adds a mild sharpness and crunch to the salad.
- Cilantro: Provides a fresh, herbal note that complements the citrus flavors.
- Grapefruit: Offers a juicy, tangy sweetness that pairs well with avocado.
- Sea Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- Black Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to the salad.
- Bird’s Eye Pepper: Introduces a spicy kick; adjust to taste.
Shopping Made Easy
- Avocados: Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure, indicating ripeness.
- Red Onions: Available in the produce section; choose firm bulbs with dry, papery skins.
- Cilantro: Look for fresh cilantro in the herb section, selecting vibrant green leaves that are not wilted.
- Grapefruits: Choose heavy fruits with smooth, firm skins for juiciness.
- Bird’s Eye Peppers: Available at Caribbean or international markets; can substitute with chili flakes if unavailable.
Cooking Notes from the Kitchen
- Preventing Avocado Browning: If not serving immediately, drizzle sliced avocado with lemon juice to prevent discoloration.
- Segmenting Grapefruit: Use a sharp knife to remove the peel and white pith, then cut between the membranes to release segments.
- Adjusting Heat: Adjust the amount of bird’s eye pepper to suit your preferred spice level.
What makes this salad uniquely Caribbean?
The combination of fresh, tropical ingredients, like avocado and grapefruit, along with the use of bird’s eye pepper, reflects the vibrant flavors typical of Caribbean cuisine.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components separately and assemble just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
Are there any substitutions for bird’s eye pepper?
If bird’s eye peppers are unavailable, you can use a small amount of finely chopped chili or a pinch of red pepper flakes as a substitute.
Avocado Grapefruit Salad
Description
A quick, vegan, gluten-free salad featuring creamy avocado, tangy grapefruit, crisp onion, and a hint of Caribbean heat, accented by the heat of bird’s eye pepper, perfect for a quick, healthy meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Slice the avocados into wedges. If not serving immediately, drizzle with lemon juice to prevent them from browning.
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Thinly slice the red onion and finely chop the cilantro.
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Segment the grapefruit, removing all peel and pith, and separate the segments.
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On a serving plate, arrange the avocado slices, grapefruit segments, and red onion.
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Sprinkle the chopped cilantro and bird’s eye pepper over the salad.
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Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing Caribbean-inspired salad.
Note
If you’re making this recipe gluten free, be sure to go through the entire list of ingredients to ensure they meet with your specific gluten free dietary needs.