Mandarin Orange Salad with Feta and Almonds Recipe

If you are looking for a salad that bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors and a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes, then you have to try this Mandarin Orange Salad with Feta and Almonds Recipe. It’s a delightful combination of crisp mixed greens, juicy mandarin oranges, crunchy almonds, and creamy feta cheese, all tied together with a luscious honey-Dijon dressing. This salad is not just a side; it’s a show-stopper that brings color and excitement to your table with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for the Mandarin Orange Salad with Feta and Almonds Recipe is an absolute breeze. Each item is straightforward yet essential, contributing a unique texture, flavor, or pop of color that makes this dish so irresistible.

• 2 cups mixed greens: The fresh, leafy base that adds a delightful crunch and vibrant green color.
• 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained: Sweet and juicy citrus segments that bring brightness and a burst of sweetness.
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds: For a nutty crunch that creates an exciting texture contrast.
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a sharp, tangy kick and subtle sweetness when sliced thinly.
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Creamy and salty, it brings richness that perfectly complements the fruit.
• 1/4 cup olive oil: Forms the silky base of the dressing, enhancing all flavors.
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar: Adds a light, tangy acidity to balance the sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon honey: Provides natural sweetness that mingles beautifully with the citrus.
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Gives depth and a slight savory zing to the dressing.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors throughout the salad.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and spice to complete the seasoning.

How to Make Mandarin Orange Salad with Feta and Almonds Recipe

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by assembling all the ingredients on your countertop. Having everything ready ensures the preparation flows smoothly and makes the process fun and effortless.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixed Greens

Wash your mixed greens carefully to remove any dirt, then gently pat them dry with a paper towel or clean cloth. Dry greens make for a crisper salad and help the dressing cling better.

Step 3: Add Greens to the Bowl

Spread the washed greens evenly into a large salad bowl, forming a vibrant, leafy bed for the colorful toppings.

Step 4: Prepare Mandarin Oranges

Drain the mandarin oranges well, discarding any excess juice to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. Evenly distribute the juicy segments over the greens for sweet bursts of flavor.

Step 5: Incorporate Sliced Almonds

Sprinkle the sliced almonds evenly across the salad for that satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the mandarin segments and feta.

Step 6: Add Thinly Sliced Red Onion

Carefully slice the red onion into thin, uniform slices and scatter them throughout the salad. The onion’s mild pungency brightens the overall flavor profile.

Step 7: Crumble and Add Feta Cheese

Crumble the feta cheese and distribute it evenly on top. Its creamy texture and salty taste are absolute game changers in this combination.

Step 8: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, and honey. Then add the Dijon mustard, blending everything until the dressing is smooth and well combined.

Step 9: Season and Dress the Salad

Season the dressing with salt and black pepper to taste, give it a final whisk, and then pour it generously over your salad ingredients.

Step 10: Toss and Serve

Gently toss the salad to coat every ingredient evenly with the dressing, creating a delightful medley of flavors and textures. Serve immediately for the freshest experience or chill it briefly for a refreshing touch.

How to Serve Mandarin Orange Salad with Feta and Almonds Recipe

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, sprinkle extra sliced almonds or crumbled feta on top before serving. Fresh herbs like chopped mint or basil can add a lovely aromatic note that elevates the salad even further.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, seafood, or even a light pasta dish. Its refreshing qualities complement any main course that could use a vibrant contrast or a palate cleanser.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this salad in individual glass bowls or mason jars for a visually stunning presentation. Layer the ingredients so the colors and textures pop through the glass—a feast for the eyes as much as the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Keep the almonds and mandarin oranges apart from the greens to prevent sogginess. When ready, combine and toss fresh before serving.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well because the greens and mandarin oranges lose their texture. It’s best to prepare smaller portions if you anticipate leftovers.

Reheating

Since it’s a cold salad, reheating is not applicable. Instead, refresh the salad with a quick toss and a drizzle of dressing before serving to perk it back up.

FAQs

Can I use canned mandarin oranges for this salad?

Yes! Just be sure to drain them thoroughly to avoid watering down the salad. Fresh mandarin segments work wonderfully too if you prefer a juicier bite.

What if I am allergic to almonds?

No problem. You can substitute sliced almonds with walnuts, pecans, or even pumpkin seeds for crunch. Each alternative brings its own unique flavor and texture.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely. The dressing can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good whisk or shake before drizzling it over the salad.

Is this salad suitable for vegans?

To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.

How long can I keep the salad before serving?

The salad is best served fresh, but you can refrigerate it for up to 30 minutes before serving for a nice chill. Beyond that, textures may start to soften.

Final Thoughts

Trying this Mandarin Orange Salad with Feta and Almonds Recipe is like inviting sunshine onto your plate. Its lively flavors and delightful textures make every bite feel special, whether you serve it as a quick lunch or an elegant side. I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do—it’s one of those dishes that keeps you coming back for more!

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