Go Back
–+ servings
Mandarin Orange Salad

Zesty Mandarin Orange Salad That Brightens Your Day

A vibrant Mandarin Orange Salad packed with refreshing flavors, the perfect blend of sweetness and nutrition.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dressing
  • 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.
For the Salad
  • 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.

Equipment

  • Medium bowl
  • Large Serving Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Salad tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. In a large serving bowl, combine 6 cups of mixed greens, 4-6 peeled and sectioned mandarin oranges, and 2 small diced avocados.
  4. Gently add ½ cup pomegranate seeds and ½ cup crumbled feta cheese to the mix.
  5. Lastly, sprinkle in ½ cup of candied pecans for a delightful crunch.
  6. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and gently toss until evenly coated.
  7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 3gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 13gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed orange juice and avoid over-tossing to keep greens crisp. Store dressed salad in the fridge for up to 1 day.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!