Refreshing Mandarin Orange Salad Recipe for Summer Bliss

Imagine a bowl filled with vibrant, juicy mandarin oranges, their bright color bursting like confetti at a celebration. The sweet aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses and promising an explosion of flavor that dances on your tongue. Each bite is a refreshing burst of citrus goodness, making this mandarin orange salad not just a dish but an experience you can’t resist.

Now picture this: it’s a warm summer afternoon, and the sun is shining down like it’s auditioning for a role in a rom-com. You’re gathered around a table with friends, laughter fills the air, and someone decides to serve this delightful mandarin orange salad. Suddenly, it’s not just food; it’s a moment that brings everyone together—a shared joy that lingers long after the last slice of orange has been devoured.

I remember the first time I made this mandarin orange salad; my family couldn’t stop raving about how refreshing it was. The kids even asked for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Mandarin Oranges: Choose firm, juicy mandarins for the best flavor; they should feel heavy for their size.

• Mixed Greens: Use fresh baby spinach or arugula for an exciting mix of flavors and textures.

• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp contrast that perfectly balances the sweetness.

• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta brings creaminess and tanginess to the mix; opt for high-quality cheese.

• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavors—choose one that tastes great on its own.

• Balsamic Vinegar: A drizzle adds depth; aged balsamic offers wonderful sweetness.

• Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings elevate all flavors—don’t skip them!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by rinsing your mixed greens under cold water until crisp and vibrant. Dry them gently using a salad spinner or paper towels to avoid excess moisture.

Segment the Mandarins: Carefully peel each mandarin and separate into segments. Remove any seeds if necessary; these little surprises can ruin your refreshing bite!

Toss in Additional Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the mixed greens along with sliced red onion and crumbled feta cheese. Toss gently to combine without bruising the greens.

Add the Mandarins & Dressing: Gently fold in the mandarin segments to keep them intact. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar while sprinkling salt and pepper over everything.

Toss Again & Serve**: Give everything another gentle toss until evenly coated in dressing. Serve immediately in chilled bowls to enhance freshness!

Enjoy every bite of this delightful mandarin orange salad—it’s as cheerful as your favorite summer playlist!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To make this mandarin orange salad shine, start by prepping all ingredients first. Chop veggies and segment oranges to ensure even mixing and maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or add feta cheese for extra flavor. Experiment with herbs like mint or basil for an unexpected twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store the mandarin orange salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to two days, but best enjoyed immediately.

Sharing my first experience making this mandarin orange salad brings back memories of summer barbecues where everyone devoured it within minutes, leaving me with empty bowls and happy faces.

FAQ

What can I substitute for mandarins in this salad?

You can use clementines or tangerines, which offer similar sweetness and texture.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare ingredients earlier but mix just before serving to maintain freshness.

How can I add protein to my mandarin orange salad?

Consider grilled chicken or shrimp for a delicious protein boost without losing flavor.

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Refreshing Mandarin Orange Salad

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Experience the vibrant flavors of summer with this delightful mandarin orange salad. Bursting with juicy mandarins, crisp mixed greens, and a hint of tangy feta cheese, this salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of freshness! Perfect for picnics or light meals, it brings friends and family together, making every gathering memorable.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: N/A
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups mandarin oranges (about 4–5 medium mandarins)
• 4 cups mixed greens (baby spinach or arugula)
• 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Rinse mixed greens under cold water and dry thoroughly.
2. Peel mandarin oranges and separate into segments; remove any seeds.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese; toss gently.
4. Fold in mandarin segments carefully to keep them intact.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then season with salt and pepper.
6. Toss everything gently until evenly coated in dressing. Serve immediately in chilled bowls.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 10mg