Description
A vibrant and refreshing Mandarin Salad featuring crisp mixed greens, juicy mandarin oranges, crunchy almonds, cucumber, and a light citrus vinaigrette. Perfect as a healthy lunch or a colorful side dish for spring, summer, or holiday meals.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 6 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup canned mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup sliced red onion
- ¼ cup sliced almonds, toasted
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
For the Citrus Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, orange juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced cucumber, shredded carrots, sliced red onion, drained mandarin oranges, dried cranberries, toasted almonds, and crumbled feta cheese if using.
- Toss with Dressing: Drizzle the prepared citrus dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to evenly coat all the components without bruising the greens.
- Serve Immediately: Plate the salad and serve right away to enjoy the freshness and crispness of the ingredients.
Notes
- Add grilled chicken for a complete, protein-rich meal.
- Pecans or walnuts can be used instead of almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- Dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp and prevent sogginess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
