Aperol-Bitter Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-02 · Updated 2026-04-02

A refreshing salad combining bitter greens with a zesty Aperol vinaigrette for a citrusy twist. This italian-inspired salads ready in about 15 minutes pairs mixed bitter greens, Aperol, orange juice into a side that holds its own next to almost any main — bright, balanced, and quick enough to slot into a weeknight plate. Each serving lands at about 180 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly next to roasted proteins, grain bowls, or weeknight mains. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 4 cups mixed bitter greens
• 2 oz Aperol
• 1 tbsp orange juice
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 4 cups mixed bitter greens. Toss with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
2. Step 2: In a separate jar, whisk together 2 oz Aperol, 1 tbsp orange juice, 1 tbsp red wine vinegar, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, and 3 tbsp olive oil until emulsified. Add 1 tbsp orange zest and stir to incorporate.
3. Step 3: Pour the vinaigrette over the greens, tossing until evenly coated. Serve immediately, garnished with additional zest.