Optimal Health Kitchen: Citrus Salad with Fennel & Avocado

Citrus fruits, like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, offer a plethora of health benefits, with a special focus on liver health. These zesty wonders are packed with antioxidants and essential nutrients that can do wonders for your liver.

Firstly, citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that helps detoxify the liver and neutralize harmful free radicals. They also stimulate the production of enzymes that aid in the liver's natural detoxification process. Additionally, citrus fruits are high in fiber, aiding digestion and promoting overall gut health, indirectly benefiting the liver.

Citrus Salad with Fennel & Avocado

To enjoy the liver-loving benefits of citrus, try this refreshing Citrus Salad with Fennel & Avocado recipe. It's a delightful blend of various citrus fruits, greens, and herbs that's not only delicious but also nourishing for your liver. Make it a regular addition to your Summer diet to support your liver's health while satisfying your taste buds. Your body will thank you!

SERVES 4 - 6

Total time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 large oranges (blood oranges and cara cara are great choices)

• 2 pink grapefruits

• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

• 1 cup fresh herbs (e.g., basil, cilantro, or your choice), torn or chopped

• 1 small avocado, sliced

• 2 cups mixed greens (e.g., arugula, spinach, or your choice)

• ¼ cup sliced almonds, toasted

• Olive oil, for drizzling

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Dressing Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice

• 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Begin by peeling the oranges and grapefruits. Using a sharp knife, slice them into rounds or segments, removing any seeds.

2. In a large serving platter, arrange the citrus slices, red onion, fresh herbs, avocado, and mixed greens.

3. To make the dressing, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper in a small bowl.

4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients.

5. Sprinkle the toasted almonds on top.

6. Finish by drizzling a bit of olive oil over the salad and adding a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

7. Serve the citrus salad immediately as a refreshing and healthy addition to your meal.

Recipe & Photo Courtesy LoveandLemons.com