Description
Mandarin orange salad brings Mediterranean freshness to your plate with crisp greens and sweet citrus. Delicate oranges dance with light vinaigrette, creating a simple yet elegant dish perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 cups (1.4 L) mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
- 1 cup (240 mL) mandarin oranges, canned and drained
- ½ cup (75 g) red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup (60 g) almonds, sliced (toasted, optional)
- ¼ cup (40 g) cranberries, dried
- ¼ cup (30 g) feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup (60 mL) olive oil
- 2 tbsps (30 mL) white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp (15 mL) honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
- 1 tsp (5 mL) Dijon mustard
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Salad Assembly: Layer mixed greens as a vibrant base, strategically arranging mandarin oranges, thinly sliced red onion, golden toasted almonds, ruby-colored dried cranberries, and crumbled feta cheese throughout the bowl.
- Dressing Creation: Craft a harmonious vinaigrette by vigorously whisking olive oil, vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and seasoning in a compact container until the mixture transforms into a silky, unified emulsion.
- Final Presentation: Cascade the freshly prepared dressing over the composed salad, using delicate folding motions to distribute flavors evenly, ensuring each ingredient receives a glistening coating without compromising the salad’s structural integrity. Serve immediately to maintain crisp textures and vibrant appearance.
Notes
- Keep mandarin oranges and greens cold before assembling to maintain crisp texture and freshness.
- Watch almonds closely while toasting to prevent burning, aim for golden brown color for maximum flavor and crunch.
- Add dressing immediately before serving to prevent greens from becoming soggy and losing their vibrant texture.
- Swap feta with vegan cheese alternative or omit for dairy-free version, use maple syrup instead of honey for vegan option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: None
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 9
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg