Mandarin Orange Salad is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for any occasion. This refreshing salad brings together juicy mandarin oranges, crisp greens, and a medley of complementary ingredients to create a dish that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a potluck, or a holiday feast, this salad is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., spinach, arugula, and romaine)
- 1 cup mandarin orange segments (canned or fresh)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Greens
Wash and dry the mixed salad greens thoroughly. Place them in a large salad bowl. - Add the Toppings
Arrange the mandarin orange segments, red onion slices, toasted almonds, dried cranberries, and crumbled feta cheese over the greens. - Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. - Dress the Salad
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly. - Serve
Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving:Â Mandarin Orange Salad is best served fresh to maintain the crispness of the greens and the vibrancy of the flavors. Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or as a standalone dish.
- Storage:Â If you have leftovers, store the undressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store the dressing separately in a small jar for up to a week.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh mandarin oranges instead of canned ones?
Yes, fresh mandarin oranges work beautifully in this salad. Simply peel and segment them, removing any seeds.
2. Can I substitute feta cheese with another type of cheese?
Absolutely! Goat cheese or blue cheese can be great substitutes for feta, adding a similar tangy creaminess to the salad.
3. What other nuts can I use besides almonds?
You can use walnuts, pecans, or even pistachios as an alternative to almonds. Toasting them enhances their flavor.
4. Is this salad suitable for vegans?
To make it vegan, replace the honey with maple syrup and skip the feta cheese, or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Mandarin Orange Salad, a perfect dish for brightening up your table!
PrintMandarin Orange Salad
Mandarin Orange Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that combines the sweetness of mandarin oranges with a creamy base, making it a popular choice for potlucks, barbecues, and holiday gatherings. This easy-to-make salad offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 1 (11-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 (8-ounce) container of whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 cup small curd cottage cheese
- 1 (3-ounce) package orange-flavored gelatin mix (Jell-O)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese and orange-flavored gelatin mix. Stir until the gelatin powder is fully incorporated into the cottage cheese.
- Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add the drained mandarin oranges and mini marshmallows to the mixture. Carefully fold them in to avoid breaking the orange segments.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours, or until well chilled. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Notes
- For a lighter version, consider using sugar-free gelatin and light or fat-free whipped topping.
- Ensure that the mandarin oranges are well-drained to prevent excess liquid from affecting the salad’s consistency.
- This salad can be made a day in advance, making it a convenient option for entertaining.