There are few salads as vibrant and refreshing as the Avocado Fennel Citrus Salad with Sweet Onion Vinaigrette Recipe. This dish beautifully balances creamy, crunchy, and tangy elements in one bowl, making it a true celebration of fresh ingredients. The buttery avocados perfectly complement the crisp fennel and zesty citrus segments, while the sweet onion vinaigrette brings everything together with a subtle sweetness and zing. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just treat yourself to a delightful lunch, this salad is a colorful and nourishing choice you’ll want to come back to time and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl holds four kinds of citrus fruit segments arranged in sections: bright orange segments on the left, dark red segments at the front, pale yellow segments on the right, and deeper red segments in the back. Each fruit piece has a shiny, juicy texture showing the inner pulp. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and the image is close up, filling most of the frame with the colorful fruits. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The charm of this salad lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a key role: the fennel adds a crisp anise-flavored crunch, avocados bring luscious creaminess, and the mixture of citrus fruits offers bursts of bright sweetness and acidity. The dressing, with its sweet onion and honey notes, perfectly balances the salad’s flavors without overpowering them.

½ Fennel bulb, thinly sliced: Adds a refreshing, slightly licorice-like crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy avocado.

2 Avocados, peeled and cut into wedges: Brings rich creaminess and a buttery texture that rounds out the citrus flavors.
1 Large grapefruit, peeled and segmented: Offers juicy, tart bursts that brighten every bite.
2 Cara Cara oranges, peeled and segmented: These sweeter, pink-fleshed oranges add lovely color and a honeyed citrus taste.

1 Navel orange or melogold grapefruit or pomelo, segmented: More citrus variety to add complexity and balance.
4-5 ounces arugula, spring mix, or baby kale: A tender, peppery bed of greens to anchor the salad and add freshness.
1 8-ounce package burrata or 4 ounces crumbled feta (optional): Creamy burrata or tangy feta brings a luscious, savory finish to the salad.

⅓ cup olive oil: The base for the vinaigrette, bringing silkiness and rich flavor.
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle sharpness to balance sweetness in the dressing.
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar: Provides acidity that lifts the flavors and brightens the salad.

2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds fresh, zesty brightness to the vinaigrette.
4 teaspoons honey or granulated sugar: Sweetens the dressing naturally and tempers the acidity.
2 tablespoons minced sweet onion: Infuses a mellow, sweet onion flavor that defines the vinaigrette.

¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the salad’s flavors without overwhelming.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a touch of heat and depth to the dressing.

How to Make Avocado Fennel Citrus Salad with Sweet Onion Vinaigrette Recipe

A fresh salad is shown in a white bowl on a white marbled surface, composed of green leafy arugula forming the base layer. On top, slices of avocado with light green flesh and dark green skin curve around orange segments that add vibrant color. Pink grapefruit pieces appear next to thin white onion rings scattered throughout. Crumbled white cheese is sprinkled over the salad. A spoon is held above, pouring creamy dressing that drips down onto the avocado and greens. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Onion Vinaigrette

First, combine the olive oil, Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, honey, minced sweet onion, salt, and pepper in a blender. Blend until the vinaigrette is silky smooth. You can also shake these ingredients vigorously in a mason jar, but blending the onions helps the dressing truly shine with their sweet flavor. Taste and tweak the seasoning to hit the perfect balance of sweetness, tartness, and spice.

Step 2: Arrange the Greens

Place your chosen bed of greens—whether it’s peppery arugula, tender spring mix, or hearty baby kale—on a large platter or in a wide serving bowl. This will be the fresh, leafy foundation of your salad and adds an earthy brightness to contrast the creamy and sweet ingredients.

Step 3: Add Fennel, Avocado, and Citrus

Layer the thinly sliced fennel bulb evenly over the greens for that wonderful crunch and subtle anise aroma. Next, gently nestle the avocado wedges among the fennel, being careful to keep their delicate shape intact. Finally, artfully arrange the peeled and segmented grapefruit, Cara Cara, and your choice of navel orange, melogold, or pomelo over the top, distributing the colors and flavors beautifully across the salad.

Step 4: Dress and Finish

Drizzle about half of your sweet onion vinaigrette over the salad so each bite gets a light, flavorful coating. If you’re using burrata cheese, break it into chunks and scatter it over the dressed salad, then drizzle the remaining vinaigrette on top. For feta lovers, sprinkle the crumbled cheese evenly for a tangy punch. If you’re feeling indulgent, a final drizzle of lemon-infused olive oil adds a luscious shine and fresh aroma.

How to Serve Avocado Fennel Citrus Salad with Sweet Onion Vinaigrette Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate this Avocado Fennel Citrus Salad with Sweet Onion Vinaigrette Recipe further, consider garnishing with toasted nuts like pistachios or almonds for a crunchy contrast. Fresh herbs such as mint, basil, or dill can add a burst of herbal freshness that complements the citrus beautifully. A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt on the avocado slices also enhances their buttery flavor.

Side Dishes

This salad is a standout on its own but pairs wonderfully with grilled seafood like salmon or shrimp, or alongside a roasted chicken for a light yet satisfying meal. It also makes an excellent bright counterpoint to richer dishes such as creamy risotto or pasta with butter sauce. When served with crusty bread, you have a complete, balanced meal that’s sure to impress.

Creative Ways to Present

For a show-stopping presentation of the Avocado Fennel Citrus Salad with Sweet Onion Vinaigrette Recipe, try layering the salad ingredients in a clear glass trifle bowl or mason jars for individual servings. Another lovely idea is to serve it in endive Boats or radicchio leaves as edible cups at a party. You can also turn this salad into a vibrant grain bowl by adding cooked quinoa or farro underneath the greens for extra texture and heartiness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. To keep the avocado from browning, add a squeeze of lemon juice and cover it with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface. Keep the vinaigrette separate and dress the salad only when ready to serve again.

Freezing

Because of the fresh avocado and delicate greens, freezing is not recommended for this salad. The texture and flavor will suffer, and the creamy avocado will become mushy upon thawing. It’s definitely a salad to enjoy fresh and vibrant.

Reheating

No reheating needed here—this salad shines chilled and fresh. If you want to enjoy it later, simply toss it again with fresh vinaigrette and add any burrata or feta shortly before serving. Keeping the ingredients cool preserves their crispness and bright flavors wonderfully.

FAQs

Can I substitute the fennel with another vegetable?

If you’re not a fan of fennel, thinly sliced cucumber or celery can offer a similar crunch and freshness. Keep in mind fennel’s unique anise flavor is part of the salad’s signature taste, but these alternatives will still contribute great texture.

Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes! To make the Avocado Fennel Citrus Salad with Sweet Onion Vinaigrette Recipe vegan, simply omit the burrata or feta cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative. The vinaigrette itself is completely plant-based and flavorful on its own.

How long does the sweet onion vinaigrette keep?

The vinaigrette can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Just give it a good shake or stir before using, as the ingredients may naturally separate over time.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas would all make fantastic additions to turn this salad into a more substantial meal while complementing its fresh flavors.

What type of citrus fruits work best?

The combination of grapefruit, Cara Cara oranges, and your choice of navel orange, melogold grapefruit, or pomelo creates a colorful and flavorful mix of sweet and tart notes. Feel free to swap in other citrus like blood oranges or tangerines based on availability and preference.

Final Thoughts

Sharing the Avocado Fennel Citrus Salad with Sweet Onion Vinaigrette Recipe with you feels like handing over a little sunshine on a plate. It’s fresh, flavorful, and a delight for the senses. Whether you’re aiming for a light lunch, a stunning side dish, or a healthy crowd-pleaser, this salad checks all the boxes. Give it a try and watch how its bright colors and unforgettable flavors light up your table and your day.

Avocado Fennel Citrus Salad with Sweet Onion Vinaigrette Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make Avocado Fennel Citrus Salad with Sweet Onion Vinaigrette Recipe