Looking for a refreshing dish that bursts with flavor and color? Look no further than our delightful Mandarin Orange and Poppyseed Salad! This vibrant salad combines the crispness of mixed greens with the sweet juiciness of mandarin oranges and the delightful crunch of sliced almonds, all drizzled with a zesty homemade vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch or a stunning side dish for your next gathering, this recipe is not just quick to prepare—taking only 15 minutes—but it also offers a tantalizing taste experience that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Dive into this article to discover how to create this mouthwatering salad that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by washing the mixed greens thoroughly under cool running water. Gently pat dry using clean paper towels or a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Drain the mandarin oranges completely using a colander, ensuring no excess liquid remains. Set aside and let them come to room temperature.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper to create a light vinaigrette dressing. Blend until the ingredients are well combined and slightly emulsified.
- Place the mixed greens in a large salad bowl, spreading them evenly to create a fresh, vibrant base for the salad.
- Gently scatter the drained mandarin orange segments over the mixed greens, distributing them evenly across the salad.
- Sprinkle the sliced almonds and poppy seeds over the salad, adding texture and nutty flavor to the dish.
- Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad, ensuring an even coating of dressing across all ingredients.
- Toss the salad gently using salad tongs or two large spoons, making sure all ingredients are well mixed and coated with dressing.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest taste and crispest greens. Optionally, garnish with additional poppy seeds or sliced almonds for extra visual appeal.
Tips
- Ingredient Prep: Make sure to wash your mixed greens thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. Dry them well to ensure your salad doesn’t become soggy.
- Room Temperature Oranges: Allow the mandarin oranges to come to room temperature after draining. This enhances their sweetness and flavor when combined with the greens.
- Vinaigrette Magic: For an extra flavor boost, let your vinaigrette sit for a few minutes after whisking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Toss Gently: When mixing your salad, use a light hand to toss the ingredients. This helps maintain the integrity of the greens and prevents them from wilting.
- Garnish for Appeal: Don’t hesitate to add extra poppy seeds or sliced almonds on top before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an extra crunch!
- Make Ahead: If you’re preparing this salad for a gathering, consider prepping the ingredients ahead of time. Keep the dressing separate until just before serving to ensure everything stays fresh.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
