Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad is the perfect summer dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table. This salad combines the sweetness of grilled pineapple with the tangy notes of creamy citrus dressing, making it ideal for picnics, barbecues, or light dinners. The unique blend of fresh ingredients not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a refreshing twist to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing flavors: The combination of citrus juices and grilled pineapple creates a delightful taste that’s perfect for hot days.
• Healthful ingredients: Packed with antioxidants and healthy fats, this salad supports a nutritious diet while keeping it delicious.
• Quick preparation: With just 15 minutes prep time and 10 minutes cook time, you can whip up this salad in no time.
• Versatile serving options: Serve as a light lunch, side dish, or even as part of a buffet—this salad fits many occasions.
• Vegan-friendly: The use of almond milk and fresh vegetables makes this dish suitable for vegan diets.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad, gather some essential tools to make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mason jar
• Immersion blender
• Grill
• Basting brush
• Salad bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jar: Perfect for mixing and storing your creamy citrus dressing without making a mess.
• Immersion blender: Easily emulsifies the dressing ingredients to achieve a smooth consistency.
• Grill: Adds a smoky flavor to the pineapple and corn, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Citrus Dressing

• 1/2 cup fresh squeezed orange juice
• 1/4 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
• 1 Tablespoon Califia unsweetened almond milk
• 1/4 cup loosely packed fresh parsley
• 3/4 cup olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 Tablespoon minced shallots
• pinch of salt

For the Grilled Pineapple Salad

• 4 slices pineapple
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 corn on the cob
• 1/2 cup pepitas
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 2-3 cups fresh mixed greens

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

• Combine all dressing ingredients in a mason jar.
• Use an immersion blender to blend until smooth.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

• Heat your grill to medium-high/high heat.
• Ensure that grill grates are clean for optimal grilling.

Step 3: Grill Pineapple and Corn

• Lightly brush pineapple slices with olive oil.
• Sear pineapple on direct heat for about 2 minutes on each side.
• Cook corn on the cob over direct heat for approximately 5 minutes per side until slightly charred.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

• Once grilled, remove pineapple from heat.
• When corn is cool enough to handle, cut off charred kernels from the cob.
• Take two salad bowls and fill each with mixed greens.
• Add two slices of grilled pineapple to each bowl.
• Divide remaining ingredients (corn kernels, pepitas, blueberries, and avocado) between both bowls.

Step 5: Dress Your Salad

• Drizzle with as much creamy citrus dressing as desired before serving.
• Enjoy your refreshing summer salad!

How to Serve Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

Serving your Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad is a delightful experience that elevates any meal. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this refreshing dish.

As a Light Lunch

• Enjoy this salad on its own for a quick lunch. The combination of fresh ingredients makes it satisfying and healthy.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. The creamy dressing complements the smoky flavors of the grilled meats perfectly.

As a Summer BBQ Side

• Serve it at your next barbecue alongside burgers and hot dogs. This salad adds a refreshing contrast to rich, savory dishes.

In a Picnic Basket

• Pack the salad in portable containers for an outdoor picnic. Its vibrant colors will brighten up any picnic spread!

As a Starter Course

• Present small portions as an appetizer in elegant bowls. This adds a touch of sophistication to your dinner party.

How to Perfect Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

To make sure your Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad turns out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest fruits and vegetables available. Freshness enhances flavor and adds nutritional value.

• Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the seasoning of your dressing. More salt or vinegar may be needed based on your preference.

• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for 15-30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

• Grill with Care: Ensure your grill is clean and preheated for even cooking. This prevents sticking and promotes delicious grill marks.

• Vary Add-ins: Feel free to experiment with other toppings like feta cheese or nuts for added texture and flavor variety.

• Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It can last up to a week, making meal prep easier!

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

Complement your Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad with these tasty side dishes that enhance any meal:

1. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed side with fresh herbs and diced vegetables that pairs well with the salad’s flavors.

2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the tanginess of the citrus dressing wonderfully.

3. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread brings warmth and comfort, balancing out the fresh notes of the salad.

4. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw with vinegar dressing adds texture and contrasts nicely with the creamy elements of the salad.

5. Cucumber Mint Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in lemon juice offers a refreshing counterpart to the creamy dish.

6. Veggie Skewers: Colorful grilled vegetable skewers provide additional smoky flavors that match well with grilled pineapple.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using stale or old ingredients can diminish the flavor of your salad. Always opt for fresh produce to enhance taste.

• Overdressing your salad: Adding too much dressing can overpower the salad’s natural flavors. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.

• Skipping the grilling step: Neglecting to grill the pineapple can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Grilling caramelizes the sugars and adds a smoky touch, so don’t skip this step!

• Not letting the dressing blend thoroughly: If you don’t blend the dressing well, it may separate. Use an immersion blender or whisk vigorously to ensure a creamy consistency.

• Forgetting about seasoning: A pinch of salt can elevate your dish significantly. Don’t forget to season both the dressing and salad components for optimal flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Creamy Citrus Dressing in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep grilled pineapple and salad ingredients in separate containers for maximum freshness.
• Mixed greens should be consumed within 3 days for best quality.

Freezing Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

• The dressing can be frozen for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Grilled pineapple is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to 2 months if needed.

Reheating Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the salad components on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for about 30-60 seconds, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat, stirring gently until heated through, ensuring not to cook further.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Creamy Citrus Dressing?

To make Creamy Citrus Dressing, simply combine orange juice, lemon juice, almond milk, parsley, olive oil, rice vinegar, minced shallots, and salt in a mason jar and blend until smooth.

Can I use other fruits with my grilled pineapple salad?

Yes! While grilled pineapple adds a delightful sweetness, you can also use peaches or mangoes for different flavor profiles.

How long does this Creamy Citrus Dressing last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this dressing lasts about 5 days.

What greens work best with this salad?

Fresh mixed greens like spinach, arugula, or romaine complement the creamy citrus dressing beautifully while adding texture.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare all components ahead of time; just keep them stored separately until you’re ready to serve. This keeps everything fresh!

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile! Perfect for summer picnics or light dinners, you can easily customize it by adding other fruits or nuts. Don’t hesitate to try it out and make it your own!

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Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

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• Author: Madison
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad is a vibrant summer dish that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors. This salad features grilled pineapple, which caramelizes beautifully on the grill, paired with a luscious creamy citrus dressing made from fresh orange and lemon juices. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or light dinners, this refreshing salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. With its quick preparation and versatile serving options, it’s a delightful addition to any meal. Whether enjoyed on its own or alongside grilled proteins, this salad is sure to impress your guests and elevate your summer dining experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/2 cup fresh squeezed orange juice
• 1/4 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
• 1 Tablespoon Califia unsweetened almond milk
• 1/4 cup loosely packed fresh parsley
• 3/4 cup olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 Tablespoon minced shallots
• pinch of salt
• 4 slices pineapple
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 corn on the cob
• 1/2 cup pepitas
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 2–3 cups fresh mixed greens
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. In a mason jar, combine orange juice, lemon juice, almond milk, parsley, olive oil, rice vinegar, minced shallots, and salt. Blend until smooth using an immersion blender.
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
3. Brush pineapple slices with olive oil and grill each side for 2 minutes until caramelized. Grill corn on the cob for about 5 minutes per side until charred.
4. Assemble the salad by placing mixed greens in bowls. Top with grilled pineapple slices, corn kernels (cut off the cob), avocado slices, pepitas, and blueberries.
5. Drizzle with creamy citrus dressing before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 24g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for optimal flavor. Feel free to substitute grilled pineapple with peaches or mangoes for variety. Refrigerate any leftover dressing for up to 5 days.