Fresh Orange, Parsley, and Arugula Salad with Citrus-Herb Vinaigrette

Vibrant orange segments mingle with peppery lettuce and fragrant parsley, while caramelized almonds add a satisfying crunch in this revitalizing salad.

Salad with Oranges

I am eternally grateful to my sister for introducing me to this salad so many years ago? One evening, Jenny rang me up to chat about the unforgettable parsley and orange salad she’d devoured at her recent book club gathering.

For weeks on end, I became obsessed with creating a perfect parsley salad each and every day, as if the very act of chopping those fresh leaves had somehow connected me to the sense of calm and serenity I’d experienced during our phone conversation. I assure you, I am not exaggerating in the slightest. Even to this day, this salad remains a staple at our gatherings.

Since its initial publication over five years ago, I’ve received countless requests to update and refine this beloved recipe. I recently re-shot photographs for this recipe during a visit from my friend Rebecca a few years back. She savored each bite of the salad with equal enthusiasm to mine.

Given the fleeting nature of seasonal produce, the odds are high that once you’ve savored this treat, you’ll be craving it repeatedly until the very last clementine vanishes from store shelves.

Parsley Salad

Don’t be deterred by the humble name; this salad is a true delight! If you haven’t experienced the delight of a salad teeming with freshly chopped parsley, you’re indeed missing out on a culinary pleasure.

The vibrant freshness of parsley elevates the rich, savory notes in much the same manner as a squeeze of citrusy lemon zest, effortlessly enhancing the overall flavor profile. This salad side dish holds a special place in my heart, and I strongly endorse its deliciousness.

Italian flat-leaf parsley is typically preferred for salads, as its leaves are more delicate and flavorful than curly-leaf parsley; nonetheless, any fresh parsley variety can be used with great results. If you’re unable to find Italian parsley, substitute with a similar-looking bunch of curly leaf parsley from your local market.

This salad is dressed with a straightforward and uncomplicated White Balsamic Vinaigrette. I am absolutely enamored with this dressing, and as such, I dedicated an entire blog post to extolling its virtues.

I store my vinaigrette in the pantry and apply it to nearly every fruit-based salad or one that requires a hint of sweetness.

A vinaigrette that harmonizes lightness, sweetness, tanginess, and subtle oiliness, effortlessly balancing flavors without overpowering the salad’s freshness. To ensure a steady supply of this salad’s fixings for future meals, I doubled the recipe and stored the excess in the refrigerator.

Parsley Salad Recipe

First, make the dressing. Combine the oil, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in a small jar; shake vigorously to meld the flavors together harmoniously.

A medley of crisp greens, fresh herbs, and vibrant citrus is crafted in a spacious bowl by combining the lettuce, parsley, and oranges. Gently drizzle a judicious amount of dressing over the salad, allowing the delicate flavors to lightly coat the crisp lettuce leaves. I typically use approximately half of the dressing for a full-sized salad.

Gently toss the mixture with tongs or large serving spoons to combine, followed by a topping of toasted almonds for added crunch. Store any remaining dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for later use.

I possess a profound affinity for salads. From a variety of fruit salads to diverse garden vegetable salads, refreshing summer salads to hearty winter salads, and ranging from simple chopped salads to complex pasta salads, my enthusiasm for salads is unparalleled.

The harmonious marriage of flavours and textures in a salad is what truly sets it apart, and the Israeli Couscous Salad is a masterclass in this regard – its unique blend of tastes and sensations is nothing short of delightful.

I’m excited to add these salads to my repertoire! This Strawberry Bacon Salad by Wine and Glue and this Apple Brie Salad by Lemon Tree Dwelling are both calling my name, and I can’t wait to give them a go.