Refreshing Mandarin Orange Salad

The sun shines brightly as the sweet scent of ripe mandarin oranges fills the air. Imagine biting into juicy citrus slices that burst with flavor while mixed with crisp greens and crunchy nuts. This is not just any dish; this is a Mandarin Orange Salad that dances on your taste buds.

Picture this: a sunny afternoon picnic where laughter mingles with the tantalizing aroma of fresh oranges. As you serve this zesty salad to friends, their eyes light up in anticipation of the vibrant colors and refreshing flavors coming their way. It’s the perfect accompaniment for those warm days when you crave something light yet utterly satisfying.

One summer evening, I made this salad for my family’s backyard barbecue. The moment my cousin took a bite, he exclaimed it was like eating sunshine! His enthusiasm turned into a delightful competition to see who could finish their serving first.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Mandarin Oranges: Choose firm oranges; they should be juicy and sweet for the best flavor.
• Mixed Greens: A combination of arugula and spinach adds crunch and peppery notes.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion gives a sharp contrast and enhances the overall flavor.
• Slivered Almonds: Toasted almonds add a satisfying crunch; be sure to watch them closely while toasting!
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta provides a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the citrus.
• Olive Oil: Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling; it enhances all the flavors.
• Balsamic Vinegar: A splash of balsamic adds acidity and depth to balance sweetness.
• Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate each bite; adjust according to your taste preference.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Let’s dive into creating this vibrant Mandarin Orange Salad!

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by washing all your greens thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel until they’re moisture-free.

Slice the Onions: Thinly slice your red onion. Aim for translucent pieces that won’t overpower the citrus flavors but still add that necessary zing.

Toss in Oranges & Greens: Carefully peel your mandarin oranges and separate them into segments. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens with orange segments; it should look like a colorful garden!

Add Crunch & Creaminess: Sprinkle slivered almonds over your salad followed by crumbled feta cheese. These toppings provide delightful contrasts in texture.

Drizzle with Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar until emulsified. Drizzle generously over your salad before giving everything a gentle toss.

Serving Suggestions: Once combined, let your salad sit for about 5 minutes before serving; this allows all flavors to meld beautifully together while making it even more aromatic.

Now you’ve crafted an enchanting dish that’s bound to impress everyone at your next gathering! Enjoy every bite of this delightfully refreshing Mandarin Orange Salad while basking in compliments from friends and family alike!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by prepping all your ingredients first. Chop the greens, segment the oranges, and whisk the dressing before tossing everything together for even distribution and flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this salad! Consider adding nuts for crunch, swapping oranges for grapefruits, or tossing in some feta cheese for a savory twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Mandarin Orange Salad in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy within two days for optimal freshness; avoid reheating as it’s best served cold.

I still remember the first time I made this salad for a family picnic. My uncle called it “sunshine in a bowl,” and everyone kept asking for more!

FAQ

What can I substitute for mandarins in this salad?

You can use clementines or tangerines for similar sweetness and texture.

How long does the Mandarin Orange Salad last in the fridge?

It lasts up to two days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, just wait to add dressing until right before serving to keep it fresh.

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Mandarin Orange Salad

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• Author: Clara Rosewood
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Mandarin Orange Salad is a refreshing, colorful dish featuring succulent mandarin oranges mixed with crisp greens and crunchy almonds. Perfect for summer meals or light lunches.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups mixed greens (arugula & spinach)
• 1 cup mandarin orange segments (about 3 mandarins)
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1/4 cup slivered almonds (toasted)
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Wash and dry mixed greens thoroughly.
2. Thinly slice the red onion.
3. Peel and segment the mandarin oranges.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, orange segments, and red onion.
5. Sprinkle toasted almonds and feta cheese over the salad.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar; drizzle over the salad.
7. Toss gently to combine; let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: N/A
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 200g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 15mg