This Mandarin Orange Salad is a bright and refreshing dish that perfectly combines sweet oranges with crunchy greens and nuts. It’s like sunshine in a bowl!
You can whip this up in no time, making it a great side for any meal. I love how the juicy oranges and crispy almonds make each bite delightful. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Fresh spinach is packed with nutrients and gives the salad a vibrant green color. If you can’t find fresh spinach, feel free to use baby kale or mixed salad greens as an alternative.
Mandarin Oranges: Canned mandarin oranges are sweet and juicy, but you could use fresh ones for an even brighter flavor. Just peel and segment them to replace the canned option.
Red Onion: The crunch and sharpness of red onion add great flavor. If it’s too strong for your taste, you can substitute with green onions or shallots for a milder taste.
Feta Cheese: This adds a creamy texture. If you’re not a fan or prefer a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based feta or just skip it entirely.
Dressing Ingredients: For a different twist, balsamic vinegar can replace apple cider vinegar. You can also swap honey with agave syrup for a vegan option.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Tastes Delicious?
Creating a tasty salad is all about balancing flavors and freshness. Follow these tips to elevate your salad:
- Use fresh ingredients; they really boost the flavor. Wash and dry spinach well to prevent it from wilting.
- Mix the dressing well before adding it to the salad. This way, all the flavors meld together nicely.
- Taste your salad after tossing it. Don’t hesitate to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or even extra honey if you like it sweeter.
- Serve immediately for the best crunch. If you’re preparing it ahead, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving.
How to Make Mandarin Orange Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 can (11 ounces) mandarin oranges, drained
- ½ cup sliced red onion
- ½ cup sliced almonds (or toasted)
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or balsamic vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Mandarin Orange Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare! You’ll spend a little time mixing up the dressing and tossing everything together—perfect for a quick side dish or a light meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, start by adding the fresh spinach leaves. Then mix in the drained mandarin oranges, sliced red onion, sliced almonds, dried cranberries, and the crumbled feta cheese if you like it. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together, making sure each ingredient is evenly distributed.
2. Whisk Up the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey (or maple syrup). Add a pinch of salt and some pepper. Using a whisk or a fork, mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. This dressing will bring all the flavors together!
3. Dress the Salad:
Now it’s time to dress your salad! Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together to coat all the salad ingredients with the dressing. Taste your salad, and if you think it needs a little more zing, sprinkle in some extra salt and pepper to your liking.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Mandarin Orange Salad is ready to serve! Scoop it into bowls and enjoy it right away as a fresh side dish or a light meal. It’s delicious and healthy!
Can I Use Other Greens Instead of Spinach?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute spinach with other greens like arugula, kale, or mixed salad greens. Just keep in mind that firmer greens like kale might require a bit more massaging with the dressing to soften them up before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using avocado or a plant-based feta alternative. For a tangy flavor, soft goat cheese works wonderfully as a substitute as well. Just crumble it over the salad like you would with feta.
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
It’s best to store leftovers without dressing to keep the greens fresh. Place any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If it’s already dressed, try to consume it within 24 hours for best quality.
Can I Add More Fruits to This Salad?
Definitely! You can add sliced apples, pears, or even berries to boost the fruitiness. Just make sure to slice them right before serving to keep them fresh and prevent browning.
