Mandarin Orange Salad

The sun shines brightly as the sweet aroma of mandarin oranges fills the air. This delightful Mandarin Orange Salad bursts with flavor and freshness that can turn any ordinary day into a celebration.

Imagine crunching through crisp greens while the juicy oranges pop in your mouth like tiny bursts of sunshine. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a casual lunch with friends. Get ready to fall in love with a salad that’s as bright and cheerful as your best friend at a summer barbecue!

Here are four reasons you’re going to adore this recipe

This vibrant Mandarin Orange Salad combines fresh ingredients for an explosion of flavor in every bite. Preparation is quick and easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The colorful presentation will impress your guests and brighten any table setting. Enjoy its versatility; serve it as a side dish or add protein for a complete meal.

I remember the first time I made this salad—it was during a family picnic where everyone raved about the refreshing taste and bright colors.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Spinach: Tender spinach leaves provide a nutritious base; look for vibrant green leaves without wilting.
• Mandarin Oranges: Use fresh or canned mandarin oranges; if using canned, choose those packed in juice for better sweetness.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp contrast; soak in cold water briefly to reduce its bite.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess; choose quality cheese for enhanced flavor and texture.
• Pecans or Walnuts: Chopped nuts introduce crunch; toast them lightly to amplify their nutty aroma.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil brings richness; use good-quality oil for the best taste.
• Balsamic Vinegar: A drizzle of balsamic vinegar balances sweetness; opt for aged balsamic for deeper flavor.
• Honey (optional): A touch of honey rounds out acidity; adjust according to your sweetness preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Base: Start by rinsing about six cups of fresh spinach under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels to prevent sogginess.

Add the Oranges: Peel and segment about two cups of mandarin oranges if using fresh ones; if canned, drain well before adding directly to the bowl.

Toss In Some Crunch: Slice half an onion thinly and toss it in with the spinach and oranges; take care not to overwhelm with onion flavor.

Add Creaminess with Feta: Crumble half a cup of feta cheese over the mix; ensure it’s evenly distributed for that creamy goodness in every bite.

Nuts About Nuts: Roughly chop half a cup of toasted pecans or walnuts and sprinkle them on top for added crunch and nutrition.

Dress It Up: In a small bowl, whisk together three tablespoons of olive oil with two tablespoons of balsamic vinegar and drizzle over the salad just before serving.

Enjoying this delightful Mandarin Orange Salad is all about savoring those bright flavors while enjoying each other’s company—perfect for sunny days or cozy dinners alike!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by prepping all the ingredients before assembling. Slice oranges, chop greens, and whisk the dressing to ensure everything mixes perfectly.

Add Your Touch

Consider swapping mandarins with blood oranges for a unique twist or adding nuts for crunch. You can even toss in some feta for an extra zing!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover salad in an airtight container, and enjoy within two days for the freshest taste. Avoid reheating as this salad is best served cold.

Creating my first Mandarin Orange Salad was quite an adventure—I accidentally bought tangerines instead of mandarins, but everyone loved the surprise twist!

FAQ

What can I add to my Mandarin Orange Salad?

You can add nuts, cheese, or even grilled chicken for extra protein and flavor.

How do I keep my salad fresh longer?

Store components separately and mix just before serving to maintain freshness.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep ingredients in advance but combine them right before serving for optimal taste.

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Mandarin Orange Salad

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• Author: Lena
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Experience the burst of flavor in this vibrant Mandarin Orange Salad, perfect for brightening up any meal or gathering.

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Ingredients

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• 6 cups fresh spinach
• 2 cups mandarin oranges (fresh or canned, drained)
• 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts (chopped and toasted)
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

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Instructions

1. Rinse the spinach under cold water and pat dry.
2. Peel and segment the mandarin oranges if using fresh; drain canned oranges.
3. Thinly slice the red onion and soak briefly in cold water to reduce pungency.
4. In a large bowl, combine spinach, oranges, sliced onion, and crumbled feta.
5. Toast nuts in a dry skillet until fragrant; add them to the salad.
6. Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey in a small bowl; drizzle over the salad before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad serving (150g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 15mg