Better Orange Salads - Cooks Illustrated

Published March 1, 2004.

Slice the oranges into small pieces and use lime juice to make a bold dressing.

The Problem

Unfortunately, the oranges often sink to the bottom of the bowl. When you try to remix the salad, the greens bruise and the oranges fall apart. In addition, their abundant juices dilute the dressing.

The Goal

Adding oranges to a salad makes for a classic combination--their tenderness, sweet juices, and bright flavor turn a simple salad into something special.

The Solution

Use lime juice in the dressing for bold flavor and allow the oranges to drain before tossing in the salad to remove excess juice. Use small amounts of greens (or no greens at all) and toss the salad as little as possible.

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