Every now and then when I pass the deli section at Whole Foods I cave in to their Marinated Bean Salad. One day, This Sesame Citrus Salad is crisp and juicy, sweet and nutty. It’s refreshing, especially on the hottest of days! Simply assemble as is or pair with protein of choice. Enjoy! (Recipe below!)

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Sesame Citrus Salad:

SERVES: 6
PREP TIME: 15 MINUTES

Orange Ginger Sesame Vinaigrette:

• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup+ rice vinegar
• 3 Tbs date syrup or honey (or sweetener of choice)
• 2 Tbs toasted sesame oil
• 1-2 Tbs soy sauce
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 1 small garlic clove
• 2 Tbs fresh ginger, peeled and finely grated 

Method:

1. In a small blender, combine all ingredients together until smooth and fully incorporated. Loosen with more rice vinegar or water as needed. Taste test and adjust to preference then use right away or refrigerate.

Salad Ingredients:

• 4 cups crisp lettuce
• 3 bell peppers, julienned
• 4 small cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 3 oranges, cut into supremes
• 5 small radishes, thinly sliced (I prefer using a mandolin), about 3/4 cup
• 1/2 cup sesame sticks (optional)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered (optional)
• 2 Tbs sesame seeds
• Jalapeno slices (optional)

Sesame Citrus Salad Method:

1. Place the lettuce onto a serving platter to create a bed, then layer remaining ingredients.
2. Finish with the sesame seeds and pair alongside the dressing. Enjoy!

For more delicious recipes to create or pair alongside, visit the Kitchen Journal.