Watercress Salad with Grapefruit

Bright, bold and beautifully complex for what’s essentially minutes of prep, this watercress salad with grapefruit raises the bar for last-minute lunches and light-meal sides. In this one-bowl wonder, peppery watercress leaves meet the vibrant tartness of grapefruit segments, while fresh herbs (mint, basil, cilantro), a whisper of minced ginger, lime juice, and coconut oil–based dressing pull it together. According to the original recipe, the combination is “just the thing for a light lunch.”

What makes this salad stand out is that it delivers multiple taste sensations—bright citrus, herbal lift, peppery greens, crunchy raw cashews, pomegranate seeds, a hint of chili heat—and it does so without heavy dressings or complex cooking. The core ingredients are naturally free of wheat and dairy, meaning this dish is inherently gluten-free and easily fits into vegetarian or clean-eating routines (just ensure any packaged items are certified).

Whether you’re prepping lunch for one or seeking a standout side to accompany grilled fish or chicken, this salad delivers color, texture and flavor without hours in the kitchen.

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Watercress Salad with Grapefruit

Recipe Details

Yield: 1 serving
Total Time: 10 minutes

Watercress Salad Ingredients

• 1 cup watercress leaves
• 1/2 medium grapefruit, segmented and broken into pieces
• 1 small shallot, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon cilantro leaves
• 1 tablespoon mint leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon basil leaves, torn
• 1/4 teaspoon minced ginger
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1/4 teaspoon Himalayan salt
• 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon raw cashews, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds
• Pinch black and white sesame seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon thinly sliced red chile
• 1/4 avocado, sliced (optional)

How to Make Watercress Salad

1. Toss together watercress, grapefruit, shallots, and fresh herbs in medium bowl.
2. In small bowl, whisk together ginger, lime juice, salt, and coconut oil.
3. Drizzle dressing over watercress salad, then top with cashews, pomegranate seeds, sesame seeds, red chile, and avocado, if using.

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Watercress Salad Nutrition Facts

*Estimated per serving (recipe yields 1 serving). Based strictly on Thrive Market’s ingredient amounts.

Serving Size	1 serving
Calories	≈ 300 kcal
Protein	≈ 5 g
Carbs	≈ 20 g
Sugar	≈ 10 g
Fiber	≈ 5 g
Fat	≈ 22 g

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Watercress Salad Variations & Tips

• Avocado swap: If you want more richness, include or replace the optional avocado slice with half an avocado diced for creamy texture.
• Nut substitution: Use toasted almonds or pistachios instead of raw cashews for a different crunch and flavor profile.
• Fruit variation: Substitute orange or blood orange segments for grapefruit if you prefer slightly less tartness.
• Herb adjustment: If you don’t have all herbs, use extra mint or basil alone for a simpler but still vibrant herbal note.
• Chili heat: Increase the thinly sliced red chile a little for more heat, or omit entirely for mild flavor while keeping the citrus-herb profile intact.
• Make-ahead tip: Prepare the dressing ahead and keep it refrigerated; dress the salad just before serving to maintain the crispness of the watercress.

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Best Watercress Salad Pairings

• Grilled white fish: A mild-flavored fish like cod or halibut pairs with the citrus and herbal notes of the salad.
• Gluten-free flatbread or crispbread: Serve slices alongside for scooping and contrasting texture.
• Pomegranate & feta side bowl: Echo the pomegranate seeds in the salad by offering a small complementary dish of feta (or dairy-free feta) and pomegranate.
• Herbal iced tea: Mint or basil iced tea enhances the fresh herb components in the salad and keeps the plate feeling light.
• Chilled rosé wine: A crisp, dry rosé complements the citrus brightness and elevates the salad into a more refined pairing.

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When to Make Watercress Salad

• Brunch or lunch for one: Quick to assemble and ideal for when you want something fresh and satisfying.
• Outdoor picnic or garden lunch: The crispness and freshness shine in an al-fresco setting.
• Light dinner side: When you’re serving a heartier main (like grilled salmon or chicken), this salad brings balance and color.
• Gluten-free friendly gatherings: A naturally gluten-free dish that works beautifully on inclusive menus.
• Spring/summer entertaining: Bright, seasonal flavors and minimal prep make this a strong option when you want something stylish yet simple.

Photo credit: Paul Delmont