Mandarin Orange Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With sweet mandarin oranges, crisp greens, and a tangy homemade dressing, this salad is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. It’s perfect as a light side dish for a summer barbecue or as a complement to a holiday meal. The combination of citrus, crunchy nuts, and fresh greens makes it a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, festive holiday dishes, or just enjoying it on its own, this salad is sure to impress.
The sweetness of mandarin oranges paired with the tanginess of the dressing creates a wonderful balance that appeals to all palates. Plus, the addition of toasted almonds provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender greens and juicy fruit. This salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing, with its bright colors making it a perfect centerpiece for any table.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
Salad
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, drained mandarin oranges, toasted almonds, sliced red onion, and dried cranberries. Toss gently to mix, making sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the salad.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined and emulsified. The dressing should have a smooth and slightly thick consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more honey for sweetness or vinegar for acidity.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat all the ingredients evenly. Be gentle when tossing to avoid breaking the delicate mandarin oranges. Make sure each leaf and ingredient is lightly coated with the dressing for the best flavor.
- Serve: Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and best texture. Garnish with additional almonds or cranberries if desired. The salad is best enjoyed right after dressing, as the greens will remain crisp and the flavors will be at their peak.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Toasting Almonds: To toast the almonds, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant. Watch them closely, as they can burn quickly. Toasting enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the salad.
- Freshness: For the best flavor, assemble the salad just before serving and add the dressing at the last minute to keep the greens crisp. This prevents the lettuce from wilting and ensures the salad maintains its vibrant texture.
- Customizing Greens: You can use a mix of greens, such as spinach or arugula, along with romaine for more variety. The combination of different greens adds more depth of flavor and texture to the salad.
- Dressing Consistency: If you prefer a creamier dressing, you can add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt to the mixture. This will make the dressing thicker and add a slight tang, which pairs well with the sweetness of the oranges.
Variations
- Chicken Mandarin Salad: Add 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken to make this salad a more substantial main course. The chicken pairs beautifully with the sweet mandarin oranges and tangy dressing, making it a perfect light lunch or dinner option.
- Citrus Vinaigrette: Replace the apple cider vinegar with fresh lemon or orange juice for a more citrusy vinaigrette. This variation enhances the citrus notes in the salad and makes it even more refreshing.
- Feta Cheese Addition: Add 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese for a salty contrast that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the oranges and cranberries. The creamy, salty feta adds a rich layer of flavor that elevates the dish.
- Nut-Free Version: If you have a nut allergy, you can replace the almonds with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. These seeds still provide a nice crunch without the risk of allergens.
- Avocado Addition: Add 1 diced avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats. The buttery avocado adds a smooth texture that complements the crisp greens and juicy mandarin oranges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dressing up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Be sure to whisk it well before using, as the ingredients may separate. Making the dressing ahead of time can save you time when preparing the salad.
2. How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?
To keep the salad from getting soggy, add the dressing just before serving. If you need to prepare it ahead of time, keep the dressing separate and mix it in right before serving. This ensures the lettuce stays crisp and fresh.
3. Can I use a different type of nut?
Absolutely! You can use pecans, walnuts, or even cashews instead of almonds. Toasting them will enhance their flavor, no matter which type you choose. Each type of nut brings its own unique flavor and texture to the salad.
4. Can I use fresh mandarins instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh mandarins or clementines instead of canned. Simply peel and segment them, removing any seeds. Fresh mandarins add a bright, juicy burst of flavor and make the salad even more vibrant.
5. How do I store leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, note that the salad may become soggy once dressed. If you plan to have leftovers, it’s best to keep the dressing separate and add it when ready to eat.
Mandarin Orange Salad is a simple yet delicious dish that’s perfect for any meal. Its refreshing combination of sweet mandarin oranges, crunchy nuts, and tangy vinaigrette makes it a versatile side that pairs well with everything from grilled meats to holiday roasts. It’s easy to customize and quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Whether you’re serving it for a festive gathering or as a light lunch, this salad is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite in your household. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the bright, refreshing flavors in every bite!
This salad’s vibrant colors and balanced flavors make it not only a treat for the taste buds but also a visually stunning addition to any table. The combination of crisp romaine, juicy mandarin segments, and crunchy almonds, all tied together with a tangy-sweet dressing, is a celebration of textures and flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side or a main course, Mandarin Orange Salad is a delightful way to add freshness to your meal.