spinach mandarin salad recipe

spinach mandarin salad recipe

The Best spinach mandarin salad recipe

I’ve always been a fan of simple yet flavorful salads, and the spinach mandarin salad recipe is one of my go-to’s. It’s a classic dish that’s been around for ages, but its beauty lies in its ability to be customized to suit any taste.

I love how the sweetness of the mandarins pairs with the earthiness of the spinach, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

My kids adore it, and it’s even become a staple at our family gatherings. We love serving it as a side dish or as a light lunch on its own.

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility – you can adjust the amount of mandarin slices to your liking, and even add some crunchy elements like nuts or seeds if you prefer. I’ve experimented with various combinations, and each time I’m amazed at how well it works.

The key to making this salad truly shine is in the balance of flavors and textures, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect combination. And let’s not forget about the health benefits – spinach is packed with iron and antioxidants, while mandarins provide a boost of vitamin C.

It’s a win-win situation for both you and your loved ones!

Spinach Mandarin Salad

Spinach Mandarin Salad

4.7 from 1817 votes

A refreshing salad combining fresh baby spinach with sweet mandarin oranges, crunchy almonds, and a tangy poppy seed dressing. This vibrant dish is perfect as a light lunch or a colorful side for any meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time15 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 220 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Salad

6 cups fresh baby spinach, washed and dried
2 cans (11 oz each) mandarin oranges, drained
1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

For the Poppy Seed Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon poppy seeds
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place a dry skillet over medium heat and add the sliced almonds.
2Toast them, stirring frequently, for 2 to 3 minutes until they are fragrant and lightly golden.
3Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
4In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
5Whisk vigorously or shake the jar until the dressing is well emulsified and smooth.
6In a large salad bowl, add the baby spinach, drained mandarin oranges, toasted almonds, and thinly sliced red onion.
7Drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
8Serve immediately as a main dish or side salad.
9The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one day.

🔧Equipment

Large salad bowl
Small bowl or jar for dressing
Whisk
Knife
Cutting board
Measuring spoons
Dry skillet (for toasting almonds)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 220 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 200mg🌾Total Carbs: 22g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 16g🥩Protein: 5g

📝Notes

For extra protein, add grilled chicken or crumbled feta cheese. To make the dressing ahead, store it in the refrigerator for up to one week and shake well before using.

Watch Video Of How Spinach Mandarin Salad Works

This spinach mandarin salad recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a gathering or just need a quick meal.

The combination of flavors and textures is perfect for satisfying your taste buds while also providing essential nutrients from the spinach and mandarins.

If you haven’t already tried this recipe, give it a shot – I’m confident you’ll become hooked!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Spinach Mandarin Salad

Q: What type of mandarin oranges are best for this recipe?

The sweetness level can vary depending on the variety, but generally speaking, blood oranges or Cara Cara oranges work well due to their sweeter flavor.

Q: Can I use regular oranges instead?

While you can substitute regular oranges, they’ll have a more bitter flavor profile compared to mandarins.

Q: How do I store leftover salad?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

No, as the flavors won’t meld together properly if made too far in advance.

Q: Are there any variations on this recipe?

Yes, feel free to add your favorite nuts or seeds for added crunch or swap out spinach for other leafy greens if desired.

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