Description
Mandarin orange salad is a bright and refreshing dish with juicy citrus, crisp greens, and crunchy toppings tossed in a sweet-tangy vinaigrette—perfect as a side or light main.
Ingredients
- 5 oz mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
- 1 cup mandarin orange segments (fresh or canned in juice, drained)
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced or diced
- 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
- 1/3 cup feta cheese or goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup toasted almonds, pecans, or walnuts
- 2 tbsp dried cranberries (optional)
- For the dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or white balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients: wash greens, drain oranges, slice onion, cucumber, and avocado.
- Place greens in a large bowl and top with oranges, red onion, cucumber, avocado (if using), cheese, nuts, and cranberries.
- Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl or jar.
- Drizzle dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately while fresh and crisp.
Notes
- Use canned mandarin oranges packed in juice for convenience—drain well.
- To make dairy-free, omit cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it a full meal.
- Store ingredients separately if prepping ahead and dress just before serving.
- Try adding crispy wonton strips, quinoa, or roasted sweet potatoes for variation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
