Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Citrus Dressing paired with a Grilled Pineapple Salad is a refreshing twist on a classic summer dish. The smoky sweetness of grilled pineapple and corn complements the vibrant, tangy dressing, creating a perfect balance of flavors. It’s easy to prepare and ideal for a light lunch or a side salad at your next barbecue.

Ingredients

• 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 (for grilling)
• 2-3 cups fresh mixed greens

Instructions

1. Step 1: Combine the orange juice, lemon juice, almond milk, parsley, olive oil, rice vinegar, minced shallots, and a pinch of salt in a mason jar. Use an immersion blender to blend until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
2. Step 2: Preheat your grill to medium-high or high heat, making sure the grates are clean.
3. Step 3: Lightly brush the pineapple slices with olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Step 4: Place the pineapple slices directly over the flame and sear for about 2 minutes on each side until grill marks appear and the pineapple is slightly caramelized.
5. Step 5: Cook the corn on the cob directly over the heat for about 5 minutes per side, turning until slightly charred.
6. Step 6: Remove the pineapple from the grill once seared and set aside.
7. Step 7: When the corn has cooled enough to handle, cut the charred kernels off the cob.
8. Step 8: Divide the mixed greens evenly between two salad bowls.
9. Step 9: Add two slices of grilled pineapple to each bowl, then distribute the corn kernels, pepitas, blueberries, and sliced avocado evenly on top.
10. Step 10: Drizzle with the creamy citrus dressing to taste.
11. Step 11: Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh, flavorful salad.

Tips & Variations

• For a creamier dressing, add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise.
• Swap pepitas for toasted almonds or walnuts for a different crunch.
• Use fresh herbs like cilantro or basil if parsley isn’t available.
• Try grilling other fruits like peaches or mangoes for variety.

Storage

Store leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good shake or stir before using. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store the grilled pineapple, corn kernels, and mixed greens separately to keep them fresh for up to 1 day. Avocado should be added just before serving to prevent browning.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just shake or stir well before using.

What if I don’t have a grill?

You can use a grill pan on the stove or broil the pineapple and corn in the oven to achieve a similar caramelized effect.

Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 113 reviews

A vibrant and refreshing grilled pineapple salad paired with a creamy citrus dressing made from fresh orange and lemon juices, olive oil, and herbs. This salad combines the smoky sweetness of grilled pineapple and charred corn with fresh avocado, blueberries, pepitas, and mixed greens for a colorful, tasty, and nutritious meal.

• Author: Logan
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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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 Tablespoons minced shallots
• Pinch of salt

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

Instructions

1. Prepare the dressing: Combine the fresh orange juice, lemon juice, almond milk, parsley, olive oil, rice vinegar, minced shallots, and a pinch of salt in a mason jar. Use an immersion blender to blend all ingredients until smooth and creamy.
2. Preheat the grill: Heat the grill to medium-high or high heat, ensuring the grates are clean to prevent sticking and promote good searing.
3. Oil the pineapple: Lightly brush the pineapple slices with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance caramelization during grilling.
4. Grill the pineapple: Place pineapple slices directly over the flame and sear each side for 2 minutes, achieving grill marks and a smoky flavor.
5. Grill the corn: Place the ear of corn on the grill over direct heat, turning every 5 minutes until all sides are charred and cooked, about 10 minutes total.
6. Remove pineapple: Once seared on both sides, remove the pineapple from the grill and set aside.
7. Cool and cut corn kernels: Allow the grilled corn to cool slightly, then carefully cut off the charred kernels from the cob to use in the salad.
8. Assemble the salad bowls: Divide the mixed greens evenly between two salad bowls.
9. Add grilled pineapple and other toppings: Place two slices of grilled pineapple in each bowl, then add equal portions of the grilled corn kernels, pepitas, blueberries, and sliced avocado.
10. Dress the salad: Drizzle the creamy citrus dressing over each salad bowl as desired for added tang and richness.
11. Serve and enjoy: Toss lightly if desired and serve immediately to enjoy the combination of smoky, fresh, sweet, and creamy flavors.

Notes

• Use fresh-squeezed juices for the best flavor in the dressing.
• If you don’t have an immersion blender, a regular blender or food processor can be used to make the dressing.
• Make sure the grill grates are clean to prevent fruit from sticking.
• Adjust dressing quantity based on taste preference.
• Pepitas add a nice crunch and nutty flavor but can be omitted for nut-free options.
• This salad is best served fresh to enjoy the textures and flavors at their peak.

Keywords: grilled pineapple salad, citrus dressing, summer salad, healthy salad, grilled corn salad, creamy dressing, fruity salad