Mandarin Orange Salad

Indulge in the refreshing flavors of a Mandarin Orange Salad, a delightful mix of vibrant colors and juicy citrus combined with crunchy walnuts, sweet cranberries, and tangy feta cheese. This salad is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a wonderful addition to any meal.

Why Make This Recipe

This Mandarin Orange Salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to put together. It offers a burst of fresh, tangy flavors that complement each other beautifully. Whether you’re looking for a side dish for a meal or a light lunch option, this salad is a refreshing choice.

How to Make Mandarin Orange Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons champagne vinegar (or white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar)
• ¼ cup orange juice
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
• Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
• 10 ounces spring mix
• 6 mandarin oranges (segmented)
• ¾ cup toasted walnuts
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion

Directions:

1. Combine the champagne vinegar, orange juice, orange zest, honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil in a mason jar. Shake vigorously and season with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste.
2. Add the spring greens, mandarin orange segments, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, crumbled feta, and red onion to a large bowl.
3. Drizzle with the dressing and toss to coat. For best results, serve promptly.

How to Serve Mandarin Orange Salad

This salad is best served fresh and can be enjoyed as a light main dish or as a side to complement a variety of entrees. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete and nutritious meal.

How to Store Mandarin Orange Salad

To store any leftovers, transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate. Consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness. Avoid dressing the entire salad if you plan to store it for later.

Tips to Make Mandarin Orange Salad

• For extra crunch, add some toasted almond slices or pumpkin seeds to the salad.
• To make the salad ahead of time, prepare the dressing and store it separately. Dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
• Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more honey or orange juice to suit your preference.

Variation

For a sweeter twist, replace the dried cranberries with fresh pomegranate arils. This variation adds another layer of sweetness and a pop of color to the salad.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of nut in this salad? Yes, you can substitute walnuts with almonds, pecans, or pine nuts based on your preference.
2. Is it necessary to use champagne vinegar for the dressing? No, you can use white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar as alternatives with slightly different flavor profiles.
3. Can I prepare the salad dressing in advance? Yes, the dressing can be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using.