There’s nothing quite like the first bite of a salad that balances sweet and savory—especially when it’s a Mandarin Orange Salad with Honey Dijon Dressing. This vibrant dish, adorned with juicy mandarin slices and crunchy candied pecans, brings a burst of freshness to your plate in a matter of just 20 minutes! It’s versatile enough to shine as a refreshing side for dinner or as a light main course when paired with grains. Plus, it’s perfect for gatherings or a simple lunch at home. With its blend of textures and flavors, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds—if not thirds! Curious how to make this delightful dish that’ll impress your friends and family? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is this salad a must-try?
Fresh, Vibrant Flavors: This Mandarin Orange Salad bursts with zesty citrus goodness, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
Quick to Prepare: In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a stunning dish ready to serve, perfect for busy nights or last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Pairing Options: It complements grilled chicken or shrimp superbly, but can also stand alone as a light lunch or dinner.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: The combination of sweet mandarins, crunchy pecans, and tangy feta creates a balance of flavors and textures that will impress any guest.
Healthy Indulgence: Packed with Vitamin C and healthy fats from avocados, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious! If you’re looking for more light side dishes, check out our Cranberry Spinach Salad or explore our refreshing Pineapple Cucumber Salad for exciting alternatives.
Mandarin Orange Salad Ingredients
For the Dressing
- Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice – Provides the acidic base for an uplifting flavor; substitute with mandarin juice for a sweeter twist.
- Orange Zest – Adds aromatic depth; feel free to omit for simplicity.
- Olive Oil – Richness that enhances the dressing; avocado oil can be a great alternative.
- Dijon Mustard – Introduces a tangy kick; you can use stone-ground mustard for a rustic touch.
- Honey – Balances the dressing with sweetness; maple syrup works as a vegan alternative.
- Apple Cider Vinegar/Red Wine Vinegar – Brightens the dressing’s flavor; any mild vinegar can substitute well.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust according to your taste.
- Garlic (minced or grated) – Adds depth and a hint of spice; garlic powder is an easy substitute.
- Dried or Fresh Thyme – Offers a lovely herbaceous note; omit if not on hand.
For the Salad
- Mixed Greens – The hearty base for your salad; any favorite salad greens will do.
- Mandarin Oranges – The star ingredient, providing juicy sweetness; fresh or canned (drained) is perfect.
- Candied Pecans/Lightly Toasted Pecans – Brings sweetness and crunch; walnuts or almonds are great substitutes.
- Avocados (diced) – Adds creaminess and healthy fats; omit for a lighter dish.
- Pomegranate Seeds/Dried Cranberries – A pop of color and flavor; feel free to swap with raisins or other dried fruits.
- Feta Cheese (crumbled) – Offers a tangy, creamy finish; substitute with vegan feta or omit for dairy-free.
- Shallots/Red Onion (sliced) – Provides a mild onion flavor; green onions can serve as a suitable alternative.
This Mandarin Orange Salad combines vibrant ingredients that will tantalize your taste buds while being quick and simple to prepare!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Citrusy Mandarin Orange Salad with Honey Dijon Dressing
Step 1: Prepare Dressing
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice, 1 tablespoon of orange zest, and 1/4 cup of olive oil until emulsified. Then add 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 2 tablespoons of your choice of vinegar. Finally, incorporate minced garlic, a sprinkle of dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to taste. The dressing should be well combined and smooth.
Step 2: Assemble Salad
In a large serving bowl, combine 4 cups of mixed greens as the base. Next, add in the segmented mandarin oranges, diced avocados, and 1/2 cup of candied pecans for crunch. Toss in 1/2 cup of pomegranate seeds and 1/3 cup of crumbled feta cheese, followed by a 1/4 cup of thinly sliced shallots to amplify flavor. The salad should be colorful and inviting.
Step 3: Dress Salad
Drizzle the honey Dijon dressing over the salad mixture, ensuring even coverage. Using salad tongs, gently toss the ingredients together until all components are well coated. Aim for a light toss to keep the greens from wilting. The vibrant colors should shine through, creating a beautiful presentation.
Step 4: Serve Immediately
Transfer the dressed Mandarin Orange Salad to individual plates or serve family-style in the large bowl. Enjoy the fresh flavors right away for the best texture and taste. If preparing in advance, store the dressing separately to maintain the crispness of the greens until mealtime.
Expert Tips for Mandarin Orange Salad
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh mandarin oranges when in season for the best sweetness and texture in your Mandarin Orange Salad.
- Dress Just Before Serving: To keep your salad vibrant and crisp, dress it right before serving. If made ahead, store dressing separately.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the dressing and adjust the honey or maple syrup as needed to match your preference for sweetness; too much can overpower the citrus.
- Avoid Overmixing: Toss the salad gently to avoid bruising the greens—maintaining their crispness is key for the best overall texture.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to mix in your favorite proteins, like grilled chicken or shrimp, to make the salad more filling and versatile for any meal.
Make Ahead Options
For busy home cooks, this Mandarin Orange Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make the honey Dijon dressing up to 3 days in advance; simply whisk together the dressing ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The mixed greens can be washed and dried up to 24 hours ahead and kept in a sealed container to maintain their crispness. However, you should wait to add the mandarin oranges, diced avocados, and any crunch elements like pecans until you’re ready to serve to ensure they stay fresh and flavorful. When it’s time to enjoy your salad, just toss everything together with the dressing, and you’ll have a vibrant, delicious dish ready with minimal fuss!
Variations & Substitutions for Mandarin Orange Salad
Elevate your Mandarin Orange Salad by exploring these delightful twists and substitutions that cater to your taste preferences!
- Nut-Free: Omit pecans and swap in sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a satisfying crunch that’s allergy-friendly.
- Dairy-Free: Leave out feta for a completely plant-based option, or try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, perfect for a vegan delight.
- Fresh vs. Canned: Use fresh mandarin oranges for an unbeatable taste, or grab canned ones when you’re short on time—both will work beautifully.
- Grain-Enhanced: Boost heartiness by adding cooked quinoa or farro to the salad; perfect for transforming this light dish into a complete meal!
- Fruit Variations: Swap pomegranate seeds for fresh blueberries or strawberries for a vibrant burst of sweetness and color.
- Heat Level: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a zesty kick that’ll awaken your senses!
- Herb Twist: Experiment with different herbs; dill or parsley can bring a fresh new vibe to the dressing and the salad itself.
- Crispier Greens: For a refreshing twist, use kale or spinach instead of mixed greens, and massage them lightly to enhance tenderness.
If you’re in need of further inspiration, don’t forget to explore our Winter Salad Festive for a seasonal take or freshen things up with our Pineapple Cucumber Salad. The world of salads is vast and brimming with flavor possibilities!
How to Store and Freeze Mandarin Orange Salad
Fridge: Store leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep any dressing separately to maintain the crispness of the greens.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for the salad as the texture of fresh ingredients like greens and oranges will deteriorate.
Reheating: Since this is a fresh salad, enjoy it chilled without reheating for the best flavor and texture.
Dressing Storage: The honey Dijon dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, making it great for meal prep!
What to Serve with Citrusy Mandarin Orange Salad with Honey Dijon Dressing
Pairing this delightful salad with complementary flavors and textures will elevate your meal to a whole new level of enjoyment.
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Grilled Chicken: The smoky, savory notes of grilled chicken beautifully contrast the sweet citrus flavors, creating a balanced plate. Perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner!
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Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa adds heartiness and complements the salad’s freshness. Toss in some herbs for a flavorful twist that brightens the overall dish.
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Crusty Bread: A warm, rustic loaf serves as the ideal vehicle for sopping up leftover honey Dijon dressing—because who can resist a little extra flavor?
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Sparkling Water with Lime: Refreshing and light, this drink echoes the salad’s citrusy notes, enhancing the experience without overpowering the palate.
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Roasted Shrimp: Crispy, seasoned shrimp mingle wonderfully with the salad, adding a protein-packed option while maintaining a light and fun vibe.
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Cheese Board: Create a small cheese platter with fresh cheeses and fruits to create a communal side. Adding elements like soft brie can make for a delightful contrast against the zesty salad.
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Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, a light and refreshing fruit sorbet, particularly in citrus flavors, will clean the palate and keep your meal feeling bright and cheerful.
Let these pairings inspire you to create a meal that not only satisfies but also delights!
Mandarin Orange Salad with Honey Dijon Dressing Recipe FAQs
What type of mandarin oranges should I use for the salad?
Absolutely! Fresh mandarin oranges will provide the sweetest flavor and best texture, especially in season. If fresh isn’t an option, canned mandarin oranges (make sure to drain them well) can also work in a pinch, although they may be slightly softer.
How should I store leftover mandarin orange salad?
I recommend storing leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, keep the dressing separate to maintain the freshness and crunchiness of the greens! This way, you can enjoy it later without wilting.
Can I freeze the mandarin orange salad?
Freezing is not recommended for this Mandarin Orange Salad, as the texture of the fresh ingredients, especially the greens and oranges, will deteriorate when thawed. Instead, consider freezing the honey Dijon dressing in an ice cube tray for later use; it can be stored for up to 3 months!
What if I don’t have fresh thyme?
Very! If fresh thyme isn’t available, you can definitely use dried thyme instead—just use about 1/3 of the amount, as dried herbs are more potent. Alternatively, feel free to omit it if you don’t have any herbs on hand; the salad will still be delicious without it!
Can I use other nuts in place of pecans?
The more the merrier! If you prefer or have allergies to pecans, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds. Alternatively, sunflower seeds can add a delightful crunch without nuts, making it a nut-free salad.
Is this salad suitable for vegans or those with dairy allergies?
Absolutely! To make this Mandarin Orange Salad vegan, you can simply leave out the feta cheese or substitute it with vegan feta. The salad will still be rich in flavor and satisfying! Additionally, ensure that the honey in the dressing is replaced with maple syrup for a completely dairy-free option.
Delicious Mandarin Orange Salad with Honey Dijon Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, and olive oil until emulsified. Then add the Dijon mustard, honey, and vinegar. Incorporate minced garlic, thyme, salt, and black pepper to taste. The dressing should be well combined and smooth.
- In a large serving bowl, combine mixed greens as the base. Add in the segmented mandarin oranges, diced avocados, and candied pecans. Toss in pomegranate seeds and crumbled feta cheese, followed by sliced shallots.
- Drizzle the honey Dijon dressing over the salad mixture, ensuring even coverage. Using salad tongs, gently toss the ingredients together until all components are well coated.
- Transfer the dressed Mandarin Orange Salad to individual plates or serve family-style in the large bowl. Enjoy the fresh flavors right away for the best texture and taste.
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