Name: Zesty Mandarin Orange Salad That Brightens Your Day
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 0.25 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (Brightens the flavor.); 0.5-1 teaspoon orange zest (Adds concentrated citrus aroma.); 0.25 cup olive oil (Serves as a rich dressing base.); 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (Introduces tang.); 2 teaspoons honey (Naturally sweetens the dressing.); 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (Balances flavors with acidity.); 0.5 teaspoon salt (Enhances overall flavor.); 0.25 teaspoon black pepper (Adds necessary seasoning.); 1 small clove garlic (Integrates depth and aroma.); 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme (Infuses herbal notes.); 6 cups mixed greens (Forms the salad base.); 4-6 mandarin oranges (Brings in sweetness.); 2 small avocados (Adds a creamy texture.); 0.5 cup pomegranate seeds (Introduces sweet pops.); 0.5 cup candied pecans (Brings sweetness and crunch.); 0.5 cup crumbled feta (Adds tangy creaminess.); 0.25 cup sliced shallots (Gives a mild onion flavor.)

The sun-kissed oranges gleam like tiny jewels, practically begging to be scooped up and savored. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for a vibrant Mandarin Orange Salad with Honey Dijon Dressing—a dish that effortlessly combines fresh, earthy greens with the sweet bright notes of citrus. This salad is not only a breeze to whip up in just 20 minutes, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, instantly elevating any meal. Whether as a refreshing lunch or a stunning side dish to accompany your favorite proteins, this Mandarin Orange Salad offers the perfect blend of flavor and texture. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins and healthy fats, making it a nourishing choice too! Ready to brighten up your next meal? Let’s dive into the delicious details!

Why is Mandarin Orange Salad a Must-Try?

Bright, Zesty Flavor: The sweet and tangy combination of mandarin oranges and honey Dijon dressing makes every bite a burst of happiness.
Quick & Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this salad, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Nourishing Ingredients: Packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and healthy fats, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Versatile Delight: Serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or pair it with crusty artisan bread for a light meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether hosting a gathering or enjoying a family meal, this salad is sure to impress with its vibrancy and flavor. For more delightful recipes, check out my Corn Pasta Salad or High Protein Salad.

Mandarin Orange Salad Ingredients

For the Dressing

¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice/mandarin juice – Brightens the flavor; freshly squeezed yields the best taste.
½-1 teaspoon orange zest – Adds concentrated citrus aroma and enhances flavor; optional based on preference.
¼ cup olive oil – Serves as a rich dressing base; avocado oil can be used for a lighter touch.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Introduces tang; any mustard works, but Dijon offers a delightful flavor contrast.
2 teaspoons honey – Naturally sweetens the dressing; for a vegan option, try maple syrup.
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar – Balances flavors with acidity; substitute with white wine vinegar if needed.
½ teaspoon salt, more to taste – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to meet dietary needs.
¼ teaspoon black pepper, more to taste – Adds necessary seasoning; freshly ground provides optimal flavor.
1 small clove garlic (minced or grated) – Integrates depth and aroma; omit for a milder taste or substitute with garlic powder as needed.
½ teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme – Infuses herbal notes; skip or replace with oregano if desired.

For the Salad

6 cups mixed greens – Forms the salad base; use a combination of greens like arugula, spinach, or romaine.
4-6 mandarin oranges (peeled and separated into sections) – Brings in sweetness and citrus flavor; canned mandarin oranges make a handy substitute.
2 small avocados (peeled, pitted, and diced) – Adds a creamy texture; you can replace them with nuts or seeds or omit for a lighter version.
½ cup pomegranate seeds or dried cranberries – Introduces sweet pops and a beautiful hue; dried cherries work well too.
½ cup candied pecans or lightly toasted pecans – Brings sweetness and crunch; walnuts or almonds provide alternative nut flavors.
½ cup crumbled feta – Adds tangy creaminess; goat cheese can be used for a different flavor profile.
¼ cup sliced shallots or red onion – Gives a mild onion flavor; omit if sensitive to raw onions or swap with green onions.

This Mandarin Orange Salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a refreshing taste of summer, packed with vibrant flavors and nutrients!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mandarin Orange Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together ¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice, ½-1 teaspoon orange zest, ¼ cup olive oil, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 2 teaspoons honey, and 2 tablespoons vinegar until fully combined. Add ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, 1 small clove minced garlic, and ½ teaspoon thyme, then continue whisking until the dressing is smooth and emulsified. Set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the salad.

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large serving bowl, combine 6 cups of mixed greens, 4-6 peeled and sectioned mandarin oranges, and 2 small diced avocados. Gently add ½ cup pomegranate seeds and ½ cup crumbled feta cheese to the mix, ensuring the fresh flavors blend harmoniously. Lastly, sprinkle in ½ cup of candied pecans for a delightful crunch and light sweetness that complements your vibrant Mandarin Orange Salad.

Step 3: Toss the Salad
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the mixed greens and fruit mixture, being careful not to saturate them too quickly. Using salad tongs or two large forks, gently toss the salad until all ingredients are evenly coated, ensuring every bite of the Mandarin Orange Salad bursts with flavor. Be mindful not to over-toss, as this will prevent your greens from wilting.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
For the freshest taste, serve the Mandarin Orange Salad immediately, allowing your guests to savor the vibrant flavors. If desired, you can refrigerate the salad for up to 30 minutes to let the flavors meld even more; just remember to toss gently again before serving. This refreshing salad makes for a perfect side dish at any gathering or a delightful light lunch option.

What to Serve with Refreshing Mandarin Orange Salad?

Delight in the possibilities of a full meal paired beautifully with this vibrant dish, enhancing every bite.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy, tender chicken breasts perfectly complement the sweet citrus notes, making a balanced and satisfying meal.
Pan-Seared Salmon: The richness of salmon harmonizes with the refreshing salad, creating a delicious contrast of flavors and textures.
Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty, savory quinoa dish adds heartiness while remaining light, pairing wonderfully with the bright and zesty salad.
Crusty Artisan Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for those who love to soak up dressing or simply enjoy a comforting side.
Roasted Asparagus: The earthiness of roasted asparagus enhances the freshness of the salad and adds a beautiful pop of color to your plate.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, refreshing white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the salad’s citrus notes beautifully.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light chocolate mousse offers a rich finish that contrasts nicely with the salad’s brightness without overwhelming the palate.

Each of these pairings complements the refreshing Mandarin Orange Salad, creating a delightful dining experience that stands out at any table.

Expert Tips for the Best Mandarin Orange Salad

Fresh Juice Only: Use freshly squeezed orange or mandarin juice for the dressing to ensure maximum flavor and vibrancy in your Mandarin Orange Salad.
Toss Gently: Be careful when mixing your salad. Over-tossing can lead to wilting greens; a gentle touch will keep them fresh and crisp.
Keep Dressing Separate: If preparing ahead of time, store the dressing in a separate container to preserve the salad’s texture and freshness until serving.
Flavor Substitutions: Feel free to customize the salad by swapping out ingredients such as pecans for walnuts or using grapefruit instead of mandarin oranges for a slightly different taste experience.
Choose Quality Ingredients: Invest in good quality olive oil and fresh produce. The better your ingredients, the tastier your Mandarin Orange Salad will be!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing the Mandarin Orange Salad in advance is a fantastic way to save time during busy weekdays. You can wash and chop the mixed greens, slice the avocados, and peel the mandarins up to 24 hours before serving; simply store each component in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. For optimal quality, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve; it can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. When it’s time to enjoy, just toss everything together, drizzle with the dressing, and you’ll have a beautiful dish that tastes just as vibrant as if it were freshly made!

How to Store and Freeze Mandarin Orange Salad

Fridge: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 1 day. For optimal freshness, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent the greens from wilting.

Freezer: It’s best not to freeze the Mandarin Orange Salad, as the texture of the greens and fruit will change significantly. Enjoy it fresh!

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dressing in advance and refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Just give it a good whisk before using.

Reheating: This salad is best served cold and fresh. If stored properly, it won’t require reheating, ensuring its crunch and flavor remain intact.

Variations & Substitutions for Mandarin Orange Salad

Feel free to get creative with this Mandarin Orange Salad! Each twist adds a new layer of flavor and fun to your meal.

Nut-Free: Replace candied pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nutritious crunch without nuts.
Vegan Option: Swap honey for agave syrup or maple syrup, and replace feta with a plant-based cheese for a delightful vegan twist.
Herbed Twist: Use fresh basil or mint in place of thyme to bring an aromatic flair, adding brightness to the dish.
Citrus Medley: Experiment with a mix of citrus by substituting mandarin oranges with blood oranges or pink grapefruit for a vibrant salad.
Grain Boost: Add cooked quinoa or farro for heartiness, transforming your salad into a filling main course that’s perfect for meal prep.
Creamy Addition: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of Greek yogurt to the dressing for an added creaminess that pairs beautifully with the citrus notes.
Spice it Up: For those who love a little kick, add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to your salad for a spicy kick.
Seasonal Swaps: Incorporate seasonal fruits like diced apples or pears for a different seasonal taste, while also providing a lovely texture variation.

To explore more delightful recipes, don’t forget to check out my Corn Pasta Salad or give my High Protein Salad a try for your next gathering!

Mandarin Orange Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe mandarin oranges?
Absolutely! When picking mandarin oranges, look for ones that are firm and feel heavy for their size. Their skin should be smooth and free of dark spots or blemishes—these could indicate overripeness. A sweet fragrance is also a great sign that they’re ready to be enjoyed!

What’s the best way to store leftover Mandarin Orange Salad?
Very! Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. To keep your greens fresh, it’s best to keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving. This prevents wilting and keeps the salad crisp.

Can I freeze Mandarin Orange Salad?
Not recommended! Freezing Mandarin Orange Salad is not ideal because the texture of the greens and fruits will suffer significantly once thawed. However, you can freeze the dressing for up to 3 months; just defrost it in the fridge overnight before use.

What should I do if my dressing is too thick?
No worries! If the dressing ends up too thick, add a little water or more freshly squeezed orange juice to achieve your desired consistency. Start with 1 teaspoon at a time, whisking well until it’s just how you like it.

Can I make this salad vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! To make the Mandarin Orange Salad vegan, simply substitute honey in the dressing with maple syrup, and either omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. This way, everyone can enjoy its deliciousness!

How can I adjust the salad for food allergies?
Very! If someone has nut allergies, feel free to omit the pecans or substitute them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a different kind of crunch. Additionally, always check for any allergies regarding other ingredients and make adjustments to suit everyone’s needs.