Salads > Salad Techniques > Cutting & Preparing Ingredients > Marinating Salad Ingredients

Citrus Marinade for Bitter Greens

A bright citrus marinade can tame the bitterness of greens like kale, radicchio, and endive, making them more palatable in salads.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
N/A
Servings
4
Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup Orange Juice
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 1 tablespoon Honey
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt
  • Pinch Red Pepper Flakes
  • 2 cups, chopped Kale, Radicchio, or Endive

Prepare the Citrus Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and red pepper flakes. Adjust the honey to taste, depending on the bitterness of your greens.

Prepare the Greens

Wash and thoroughly dry the bitter greens. Remove any tough stems and chop the greens into bite-sized pieces.

Massage and Marinate

Pour the citrus marinade over the chopped greens. Use your hands to gently massage the marinade into the greens for 2-3 minutes. This helps to break down the fibers and tenderize the leaves. Ensure all leaves are coated in the marinade.

Rest and Serve

Let the greens marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour, in the refrigerator. This will further soften the leaves and allow them to absorb the citrus flavors. Serve as a base for a salad with other ingredients like nuts, cheese, or fruit.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Approximate values: Calories: 60, Fat: 4g, Sodium: 80mg, Carbohydrates: 6g, Protein: 1g. Actual values may vary based on ingredient choices and the specific greens used.

Other Considerations for Nutrition

Adjust the amount of honey based on dietary restrictions. Using less olive oil will reduce the calorie content. Consider the natural sugar content of the chosen greens when calculating nutritional values.

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FAQ

  • Can I use other citrus fruits?

    Yes, grapefruit or lime juice can be used in place of lemon or orange juice, but keep in mind this will alter the flavor profile.
  • Why do I need to massage the greens?

    Massaging helps to break down the tough fibers in bitter greens, making them more tender and easier to digest. It also helps the greens absorb the marinade more effectively.
  • Can I add other ingredients to the marinade?

    Yes, you can add minced garlic, ginger, or a splash of rice vinegar for additional flavor.