Looking to brighten up your mealtime with a burst of flavor? Denise's Mandarin Orange Salad is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy that will tantalize your taste buds and leave your guests asking for seconds! This vibrant salad, made in just 15 minutes, is not only a feast for the eyes but also a refreshing addition to any table. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or simply want to elevate your lunch, this recipe is your ticket to a deliciously healthy dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delightful to eat. Dive into the recipe and discover how to make this crowd-pleaser that will have everyone raving!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can mandarin oranges, drained
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Drain the mandarin oranges thoroughly using a colander, gently patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess liquid.
- In a large salad bowl, spread the mixed greens as a fresh, crisp base for the salad. Ensure the greens are clean and dry before arranging.
- Thinly slice the red onion into delicate half-moon shapes, using a sharp knife to create uniform, thin pieces.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar to create a simple vinaigrette. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the dressing's flavor.
- Gently scatter the drained mandarin orange segments over the mixed greens, distributing them evenly across the salad.
- Sprinkle the sliced almonds over the salad, adding a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the dish.
- Add the thinly sliced red onions across the salad for a sharp, aromatic element.
- Crumble the feta cheese over the top, allowing the creamy, tangy cheese to complement the sweet mandarin oranges.
- Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad just before serving, ensuring an even coating of the dressing.
- Gently toss the salad to mix the ingredients, being careful not to bruise the delicate mandarin orange segments.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors and crispest textures of the salad.
Tips
- Ingredient Prep: Make sure to thoroughly drain the mandarin oranges to avoid a soggy salad. Pat them dry with paper towels for the best texture.
- Fresh Greens: Use a mix of greens for added flavor and color. Spinach, arugula, or baby kale can all enhance the salad's taste.
- Slice with Care: When slicing the red onion, aim for uniform pieces to ensure an even distribution of flavor throughout the salad.
- Vinaigrette Magic: Whisk the olive oil and balsamic vinegar until well combined. Feel free to experiment by adding a touch of honey or Dijon mustard for a unique twist!
- Gentle Tossing: When mixing the salad, use a gentle hand to avoid bruising the delicate mandarin segments, keeping them intact for a beautiful presentation.
- Serving Fresh: Serve the salad immediately after tossing it with the vinaigrette to maintain the crispness of the greens and the freshness of the flavors.
- Add Some Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp on top of the salad for an extra protein boost.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
