Suzanne Goin’s AOC Cookbook Preview: Little Gems with Reed Avocados, Cara Cara Oranges, and Cilantro

Little Gems with Reed Avocados, Cara Cara Oranges, and Cilantro. Photo Credit: Heather Platt

I love this salad so much that I’ve made it three times since Suzanne emailed me access to the AOC Cookbook draft. With so many incredible recipes to try, it sounds crazy to be making one of them multiple times. But it’s made up of two of my favorite things, Cara Cara oranges, which are the most special and delicious of oranges, and avocados, which have become a staple in my California kitchen. This salad really is the perfect winter salad to brighten up a table full of hearty and rich winter fare. It is refreshing, light and crisp and since it’s Cara Cara season right now, why not make it while I can? And if possible, get your lettuces from Coleman Farms at the Santa Monica Farmer’s Market. They have the most beautiful lettuces in California. And don’t be dissuaded by Farmer Romeo’s serious exterior. He’s so nice that his nickname is “The Jolly Green Giant.”( I prefer to call him “Romeo, Romeo”). In any case, Coleman Farms is where the Lucques chefs go for lettuce. And I suggest you do too!