If you’re craving a salad that bursts with freshness, color, and a mouthwatering balance of flavors, then you have to try this Mandarin Orange Salad with Feta, Almonds, and a Tangy Dressing Recipe. It perfectly pairs juicy mandarin oranges with salty feta, crunchy almonds, and a vibrant dressing that brings everything together in a way that feels both light and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday lunch or a beautiful side dish for dinner, this salad never fails to impress and refresh your palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with fresh baby spinach leaves forms the base layer, creating a rich green background. On top, there are evenly spaced vibrant orange mandarin slices mixed with deep red blood orange slices, adding bright pops of color. Small, crumbly white cheese pieces are scattered across the citrus and spinach layers, giving a soft texture contrast. A few sprigs of delicate green herbs are lightly placed for garnish. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface, enhancing the fresh and clean look of the salad. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving that irresistible flavor and texture harmony in this salad. Each component plays a special role, from the crispness of the greens to the sweet citrusy punch of the mandarins and the creamy contrast of feta cheese.

2 cups mixed greens: A vibrant base that adds freshness and a variety of textures to the salad.
1 cup mandarin oranges, drained: Sweet and juicy segments that brighten every bite with citrusy goodness.
1/2 cup sliced almonds: Offers a satisfying crunch and a subtle nutty flavor that complements the mandarins.
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a gentle pungency and a splash of color to the mix.
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Creamy and tangy, this cheese provides a savory note that balances the sweetness perfectly.
1/4 cup olive oil: Forms the base of the dressing, delivering smooth richness.
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar: Brings bright acidity that amps up the tanginess.
1 tablespoon honey: Adds natural sweetness to mellow the vinegar’s sharpness.
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Gives the dressing depth and a gentle kick.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors for perfect balance.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Sprinkles subtle warmth to finish the dressing.

How to Make Mandarin Orange Salad with Feta, Almonds, and a Tangy Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base

Start by placing your mixed greens into a spacious bowl. Then, add the drained mandarin oranges, which bring a refreshing burst of sweetness, and sprinkle in the sliced almonds for texture. Next, toss in the thinly sliced red onions along with the crumbled feta cheese. Once all the ingredients are combined, you’ll have a colorful and inviting salad base ready to be dressed.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a separate smaller bowl, combine olive oil, white wine vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Using a whisk, blend everything vigorously until the dressing emulsifies into a smooth, tangy mixture that perfectly complements the salad’s vibrant ingredients.

Step 3: Toss and Serve

Drizzle your tangy dressing over the salad and carefully toss everything together so each leaf and bite is coated evenly. The salad is best enjoyed immediately to savor the crispness of the greens and the full freshness of the mandarin oranges highlighted by that zingy dressing.

How to Serve Mandarin Orange Salad with Feta, Almonds, and a Tangy Dressing Recipe

Mandarin Orange Salad with Feta, Almonds, and a Tangy Dressing Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

For an extra pop, try garnishing your salad with freshly chopped herbs like mint or basil to add aromatic lift. You could also sprinkle some pomegranate seeds or dried cranberries for little bursts of sweetness that contrast delightfully with the tangy feta.

Side Dishes

This salad is wonderfully versatile as a side dish. It pairs beautifully alongside grilled chicken, pan-seared salmon, or even a light pasta dish. The citrus and crunchy textures make it a refreshing balance to heavier mains.

Creative Ways to Present

Impress guests by serving the salad in clear glass bowls or individual mason jars layered attractively. Another fun idea is to create mini salad cups using large lettuce leaves as vessels, perfect for parties or picnics.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Because of the delicate texture of the greens and the juicy mandarins, it’s best to store any leftover salad separately from the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Mix them just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.

Freezing

This Mandarin Orange Salad with Feta, Almonds, and a Tangy Dressing Recipe is not ideal for freezing due to the fresh greens and juicy fruit which would lose their texture and flavor upon thawing.

Reheating

Since this salad is designed to be enjoyed fresh and cold, reheating is not recommended. Instead, prepare only as much as you can eat at a time for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use canned mandarin oranges instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just make sure to drain them well to avoid excess juice watering down your salad. Canned mandarins often have great sweetness and convenience, making them a fantastic choice.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If feta isn’t your favorite, try goat cheese for a similar tangy creaminess or even fresh mozzarella for a milder flavor that still adds a lovely texture.

Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?

To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative, and ensure your honey is substituted with maple syrup or agave nectar in the dressing.

Can I add protein to make it a complete meal?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu make wonderful additions that elevate this salad into a satisfying lunch or dinner while maintaining its refreshing character.

How long does the salad stay fresh once dressed?

Once tossed with the dressing, it’s best enjoyed within a couple of hours. The greens start to wilt and mandarins release moisture over time, so plan to serve soon after assembling.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Mandarin Orange Salad with Feta, Almonds, and a Tangy Dressing Recipe enough if you’re after something bright, fresh, and packed with complementary flavors. It’s simple to make, stunning to serve, and a wonderful way to add a splash of color to your meals. Give it a try soon—you just might find your new favorite salad!

Sophia

Mandarin Orange Salad with Feta, Almonds, and a Tangy Dressing Recipe