Here’s a fresh and tangy Mandarin Orange Salad recipe—sweet, crisp, and perfect as a side or light lunch 🥗🍊
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Salad:
- 1 head of romaine or mixed greens, washed and chopped
- 1 can (11 oz) mandarin orange segments, drained
- ½ cup sliced almonds, toasted
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- ½ cup shredded carrots (optional)
- ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
- ½ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp white wine vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1–2 tsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: ½ tsp Dijon mustard for tang
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine greens, mandarin orange segments, toasted almonds, and any optional veggies or toppings.
- Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, honey, salt, pepper, and Dijon if using.
- Toss and Serve
- Drizzle dressing over salad just before serving.
- Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Top with cheese or extra almonds if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Crunchy twist: Add chow mein noodles or crispy wonton strips.
- Fruit variations: Add sliced strawberries, pineapple, or apple slices.
- Nut-free version: Replace almonds with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
- Make-ahead: Keep dressing separate and toss just before serving to keep greens crisp.
If you want, I can also give a creamy Mandarin Orange Salad version with a sweet mayonnaise-based dressing that’s popular at potlucks.
Do you want me to provide that version?
