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Mandarin Orange Salad

A vibrant salad featuring juicy mandarins, crisp greens, and a zesty dressing, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Healthy
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Salad Base
  • 5-6 cups Mixed salad greens (a mix of romaine, baby spinach, and bitter arugula) Use a mix for contrast.
  • 2-3 cups Mandarin oranges, segmented (fresh or canned in juice) Fresh gives the best fragrance.
  • 1/4 cup Red onion, thinly sliced Soak briefly in cold water if you want it milder.
  • 1 piece Avocado, sliced Adds creamy richness.
  • 1/3 cup Sliced almonds or toasted walnuts Walnuts offer a richer, earthier note.
  • 1/3 cup Feta or goat cheese, crumbled Optional, adds tang and indulgence.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh mint or basil, chopped Aromatic lift.
Dressing
  • 3 tablespoons Extra-virgin olive oil Rich base.
  • 2 tablespoons Mandarin juice Or fresh orange juice for extra brightness.
  • 1 tablespoon Honey Balances acidity; maple syrup works as a vegan substitution.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Emulsifies and adds a gentle heat.
  • 1 tablespoon Rice vinegar Brightens the dressing; apple cider vinegar is a fine substitute.
  • to taste Salt and cracked black pepper

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Gather and chill your greens so they stay crisp and lively.
  2. If using fresh mandarins, peel and segment them, catching any juices for the dressing. If using canned, drain and reserve a tablespoon of the juice.
  3. Whisk together olive oil, mandarin juice, honey, Dijon, vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until glossy and combined. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity.
Assembly
  1. Toss the mixed greens with half of the dressing so they’re lightly coated.
  2. Arrange dressed greens on a platter; scatter mandarin segments, sliced avocado, red onion, and nuts over the top.
  3. Crumble cheese and sprinkle herbs for color and perfume.
  4. Drizzle remaining dressing just before serving and finish with a few extra cracked black peppercorns or a pinch of flaky sea salt.

Notes

For a festive meal twist, add pomegranate seeds. Make it heartier by adding roasted chicken or chickpeas. To keep it healthy, swap honey for agave and use extra nuts instead of cheese. For a winter version, add sliced fennel or blood orange.