Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

Published: January 29, 2026

by Olivia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bright and Flavorful: The combination of fresh citrus juices in the dressing gives this salad a zesty kick that elevates the flavors.
Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and simple steps, you can whip up this dish in just 25 minutes.
Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a side dish or a light main course, this salad suits various meal plans and occasions.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh produce, this salad offers a nutritious option for health-conscious eaters without compromising on taste.
Grilled Goodness: Grilling the pineapple adds a smoky sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the creamy dressing.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad efficiently, gather your tools beforehand. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mason jar
Immersion blender
Grill
Basting brush
Salad bowls
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Mason jar: Great for mixing and storing your dressing; it makes shaking easy and mess-free.
Immersion blender: Ensures a smooth, creamy texture for your dressing without needing multiple dishes.
Grill: Provides that perfect charred flavor to the pineapple while keeping it juicy.
Salad bowls: Helps in presenting your salad attractively, enhancing the dining experience.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Citrus 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 Tablespoon minced shallots
pinch of salt

For the Grilled Pineapple 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

How to Make Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Combine all dressing ingredients in a mason jar.
Use an immersion blender to mix until smooth.

Step 2: Grill the Pineapple and Corn

Heat your grill to medium-high/high heat. Ensure grates are clean before use.
Lightly brush each slice of pineapple with olive oil.
Sear pineapple directly over flame for about 2 minutes on each side until grill marks appear.
Place corn on the grill and cook for approximately 5 minutes on each side until slightly charred.

Step 3: Assemble Your Salad

Remove grilled pineapple from heat once seared; set aside.
After cooling slightly, cut kernels off the corn cob.
In two salad bowls, fill them with mixed greens as a base.
Add two slices of grilled pineapple to each bowl along with corn kernels, pepitas, blueberries, and sliced avocado.
Drizzle generously with creamy citrus dressing before serving.

Enjoy this delicious Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad as a delightful addition to your next meal!

How to Serve Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

Serving Creamy Citrus Dressing with Grilled Pineapple Salad can elevate your meal experience. The vibrant flavors and textures make it a delightful addition to any table setting.

Pair with Grilled Proteins

Chicken or Turkey: The citrus dressing complements grilled chicken or turkey, adding a refreshing touch.
Beef Skewers: Serve the salad alongside beef skewers for a hearty meal that balances well with the lightness of the salad.

Add Crunchy Toppings

Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted almonds or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.
Fried Shallots: Add crispy fried shallots for an extra layer of texture and a hint of sweetness.

Enjoy as a Light Lunch

Sandwich Pairing: This salad goes great with a simple sandwich. Opt for turkey or veggie varieties to keep it light and fresh.
Wraps: Fill a wrap with grilled chicken, greens, and the creamy citrus dressing for a nutritious lunch option.

How to Perfect Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

To create an unforgettable Creamy Citrus Dressing and Grilled Pineapple Salad, consider these tips that will enhance your dish’s flavor and presentation.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh fruits and herbs. This enhances the flavor profile significantly.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a touch of honey or agave syrup to balance out the acidity of the citrus juices.
Marinate Pineapple: For extra flavor, marinate pineapple slices in orange juice before grilling. This adds depth to the taste.
Blend Well: Make sure to blend the dressing until smooth for a creamy consistency that evenly coats each ingredient.
Taste as You Go: Always taste your dressing before serving. Adjust salt or acidity according to your preference.
Chill Before Serving: Let the dressing chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps meld the flavors together perfectly.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Citrus Dressing and Grilled Pineapple Salad can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some fantastic options that complement this refreshing salad.

Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus can be grilled alongside your pineapple for added flavor.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with herbs and lemon provides an excellent source of protein while keeping things fresh.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These add a sweet contrast that pairs well with the citrus notes of the salad.
Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and spices serves as a perfect base or side dish to complement your meal.
Chickpea Salad: A refreshing chickpea salad with cucumbers and tomatoes offers a hearty yet light option that’s high in protein.
Fruit Platter: A selection of seasonal fruits enhances the sweet theme of your meal while adding variety to your plate.
Tabbouleh: This herby bulgur wheat salad is full of fresh parsley, mint, and lemon – matching perfectly with the bright flavors of your main dish.
Cornbread Muffins: Soft cornbread muffins can add a comforting touch while balancing out the tangy salad flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your experience with this Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Boldly skip the fresh ingredients – Using bottled juices or old produce can ruin the flavor. Always opt for fresh-squeezed juices and ripe fruits.
Boldly overlook the grilling temperature – Grilling at too low of a temperature may lead to soggy pineapple. Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high for optimal results.
Boldly ignore the dressing balance – Adding too much oil can overpower the citrus flavors. Follow the recipe carefully to achieve a harmonious blend.
Boldly forget about seasoning – Neglecting salt can leave your salad bland. A pinch of salt enhances all flavors, so don’t skip it!
Boldly rush through assembly – Layering ingredients haphazardly can make for an unappealing presentation. Take your time to arrange each component beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store the Creamy Citrus Dressing in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one week.
Keep the salad components separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Freezing Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

The dressing can be frozen for up to three months, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Do not freeze the salad; it’s best consumed immediately for optimal texture and flavor.

Reheating Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place any grilled components on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
Microwave – Use medium heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring between intervals, until heated through.
Stovetop – Gently heat in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about this Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad, you’re not alone! Here are some answers:

Can I use other fruits for grilling?

Absolutely! You can try peaches, mangoes, or even zucchini for grilling. Each will add a unique flavor profile.

How long does the dressing last?

The creamy citrus dressing lasts up to one week when stored properly in the refrigerator.

What can I use instead of olive oil?

You can substitute with avocado oil or any neutral-flavored oil if you prefer a different taste.

Is this salad customizable?

Yes! Feel free to add nuts, seeds, or different fruits based on your preferences and seasonal availability.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the dressing and grilled components ahead of time but assemble the salad right before serving for freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad is both refreshing and versatile. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a light meal anytime. Feel free to customize with your favorite fruits or toppings for added flair!