Easy Mandarin Orange Salad for a Fresh Spring Delight

Mandarin orange salad is a refreshing dish perfect for spring! This vibrant salad features juicy oranges, creamy avocados, and crunchy nuts, making every bite a delightful experience. It’s quick to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a burst of citrus flavor and freshness in under 30 minutes. Serve it as a light lunch or a stunning side dish at your next gathering.

Mandarin Orange Salad Recipe Ingredients

Fresh Greens for Your Salad

Start with a mix of fresh greens to build your salad’s base. Consider using:

• 6 cups of mixed greens (Romaine, spring mix, red leaf, baby spinach, baby kale, or arugula) for a varied texture and flavor.

Sweet and Juicy Mandarin Oranges

Next, add the star of the show! You’ll need:

• 4-6 mandarin oranges (peeled and separated into sections) or 2 cans of drained mandarin oranges for convenience.

Crunchy Nuts and Creamy Avocado

For a delightful crunch and creaminess, include:

• ½ cup of candied pecans or lightly toasted pecans,
• 2 small avocados (peeled, pitted, and diced) to add a rich texture.

Flavorful Additions: Feta and Shallots

Enhance the flavor profile with:

• ½ cup of crumbled feta cheese for a salty bite,
• ¼ cup of sliced shallots or red onion for a mild, sweet kick.

Dressing Ingredients for a Citrus Twist

Finally, whip up a light and zesty dressing with these ingredients:

• ¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice or mandarin juice,
• ½-1 teaspoon orange zest,
• ¼ cup olive oil,
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard,
• 2 teaspoons honey,
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar,
• ½ teaspoon salt (more to taste),
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (more to taste),
• 1 small clove of garlic (minced or grated),
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme.

How to Make This Delicious Mandarin Orange Salad

Preparing the Ingredients

Begin by preparing the mandarin oranges. Peel and segment them, then chop and slice the remaining ingredients as needed.

Whipping Up the Dressing

In a bowl or jar, combine all dressing ingredients. Whisk or shake until well mixed, then adjust the seasoning to taste.

Assembling the Salad

In a large salad bowl, layer the mixed greens first. Top it with shallots, pomegranate seeds, candied pecans, feta cheese, mandarin oranges, and diced avocados. Drizzle with the prepared dressing and gently toss to combine.

Mandarin Orange Salad Variations

Adding Extra Crunch and Flavor

For extra crunch and a pop of color, consider adding shaved fennel, diced bell peppers, or shredded carrots.

Alternative Cheeses to Try

Switch up the cheese by trying blue cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

Incorporating Different Fruits and Proteins

Add other fruits like apples or peaches for sweetness, or include grilled chicken or beans for added protein.

Grains to Enhance Your Salad

For a filling option, consider incorporating grains like quinoa or farro into your salad.

Mandarin Orange Salad Storage & Make Ahead Tips

Storing the Salad Properly

Store the salad undressed in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a couple of days. Dressed salad is best consumed fresh to avoid sogginess.

Preparing Ingredients in Advance

You can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. Ingredients can be prepped and stored separately for up to 1 day before serving.

FAQs

More Delicious Recipes to Try Next

• Spring Salad with Grilled Chicken
• Vibrant Spring Salad with Apples
• Easter Salad
• Chopped Peach Caprese Salad
• Banana Pudding Fluff Salad

Conclusion

This easy mandarin orange salad is a delightful way to enjoy fresh flavors during the spring. For more inspiration, check out Elly’s recipes on Pinterest for beautiful and delicious ideas that will enhance your culinary adventures!