Blood Orange Salad with Farro, Rocket and Blood Orange Vinaigrette

Name: Blood Orange Salad with Farro, Rocket and Blood Orange Vinaigrette
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 0
Ingredients: 100g farro; 4 blood oranges; 1 orange; Bunch rocket; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 tsp wholegrain mustard; 1 1/2 tsp pomegranate molasses; 1 tsp honey; 100ml blood orange juice; 150ml ollive oil; Mixed salad leaves

Rated 5.0 stars by 4 users

Author:

Drogo

Servings

0 - 4

Prep Time

60 minutes

Cook Time

10 minutes

This vibrant blood orange salad proves that healthy food can be every bit as exciting as it is nutritious. Blood oranges are a seasonal citrus fruit, typically available between January and March, and are prized for their striking crimson flesh and sweet, berry-like flavour. Their distinctive colour comes from anthocyanins, natural pigments that develop as a result of cool nights and warm sunny days.

While many blood orange recipes use the fruit in cakes, desserts and preserves, blood oranges are equally delicious in fresh seasonal salads. In this refreshing rocket salad, juicy segments of blood orange are paired with peppery leaves and a bright blood orange vinaigrette, creating the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavours. Whether served as a light lunch or elegant starter, this colourful blood orange salad is a simple way to make the most of one of winter's most sought-after seasonal ingredients.

Ingredients

Blood Orange Salad with Farro, Rocket and Blood Orange Vinaigrette

100g farro
4 blood oranges
1 orange
Bunch rocket
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp wholegrain mustard
1 1/2 tsp pomegranate molasses
1 tsp honey
100ml blood orange juice
150ml ollive oil
Mixed salad leaves

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Directions

Method

Step 1, Put the farro into a medium saucepan with 500ml of cold water. Bring to the boil and cook for five minutes then turn down the heat and leave to simmer, stirring occasionally, for 50 minutes, or until the grains are al dente. Set aside and leave to cool.
Step 2, Make the vinaigrette in a medium mixing bowl. Add salt and red wine vinegar and stir until the salt has dissolved. Mix in whole grain mustard, pomegranate molasses, honey and blood orange juice and whisk ingredients together. Slowly start to add the olive oil, constantly stirring until it is fully incorporated.
Step 3, Add the rocket leaves and cooked farro to the vinaigrette. Mix together then arrange on the plates, topping with the blood orange segments and zest.
Step 4, For a more substantial meal, try adding feta cheese, crushed walnuts or avocado to make it more substantial if serving it as a light meal.

Recipe Note

What is a blood orange?

A blood orange is a variety of orange with deep red flesh and a sweet, slightly berry-like flavour. Its distinctive colour comes from natural pigments called anthocyanins, making it a popular ingredient in many blood orange recipes.

When are blood oranges in season?

Blood oranges are typically in season from January to March in the UK. This short growing season makes a fresh blood orange salad one of the best ways to enjoy them at their peak.

What goes well in a blood orange salad?

A blood orange salad pairs beautifully with rocket, fennel, avocado, goat's cheese, walnuts and fresh herbs. The sweet citrus flavour of the oranges complements the peppery notes of a rocket salad particularly well.

Can I make a blood orange salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance, but for the best texture and flavour it's recommended to assemble the blood orange salad shortly before serving. Add the dressing at the last minute to keep the leaves fresh and crisp.

What dressing goes with blood orange salad?

A simple blood orange vinaigrette is one of the best dressings for a blood orange salad. Made with blood orange juice, olive oil and a little vinegar, it enhances the fruit's natural sweetness while adding a fresh, tangy finish.

Are blood oranges healthier than regular oranges?

Blood oranges contain many of the same vitamins and nutrients as regular oranges, including vitamin C and fibre. They also contain anthocyanins, the antioxidants responsible for their distinctive red colour.

What wine pairs well with a blood orange salad?

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc, dry rosé or Italian Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with a blood orange salad. These wines complement the citrus flavours and work particularly well with a rocket salad featuring fresh seasonal ingredients.