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Avocado and Grapefruit Salad

This vibrant avocado and grapefruit salad is a masterclass in balancing flavours and textures. The creamy richness of ripe avocado provides a beautiful contrast to the sharp, citrusy bursts of Ruby Red grapefruit, while the butter lettuce offers a soft, delicate crunch. It is a sophisticated vegan dish that works exceptionally well as a light lunch or a refreshing starter for a dinner party, especially during the brighter spring and summer months.

The secret to this recipe lies in the delicate vinaigrette, which uses walnut oil for an earthy depth and verjus for a gentle acidity. Verjus, a tart juice pressed from unripe grapes, is much milder than traditional vinegar and allows the natural sweetness of the fruit to shine. Served on a large platter, this colourful salad is as visually striking as it is delicious, offering a healthy and elegant addition to any seasonal menu.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Avocado and Grapefruit Salad

  • 2 tablespoons verjus* or 20ml white grape juice and 2 1/2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • 2 tablespoons minced shallot

  • 60ml walnut oil

  • 1/4 cup olive oil

  • Fine sea salt

  • 8 large butter lettuce leaves

  • 3 ripe avocados, halved, pitted, peeled, thinly sliced, rinsed under cold water

  • 3 large Ruby Red grapefruits, all peel and white pith cut away, segments cut from between membranes

How to make Avocado and Grapefruit Salad

Whisk first 3 ingredients in small bowl to blend. Gradually whisk in both oils. Season dressing to taste with sea salt and pepper.

Arrange lettuce on platter. Top with avocado and grapefruit, then dressing.

Milder than vinegar, verjus is a tart juice made from unripe grapes; available at specialty foods stores and from chefshop.com and terrasonoma.com.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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