Ingredients

• Mixed Greens: 6 cups (spinach, arugula, or romaine)
• Mandarin Oranges: 1 can (11 oz), drained, or 1 cup fresh segments
• Red Onion: 1/4, thinly sliced
• Cucumber: 1, sliced
• Dried Cranberries: 1/4 cup
• Slivered Almonds or Walnuts: 1/4 cup, toasted
• Feta Cheese: 1/4 cup, crumbled (optional)

Dressing (Optional)

For a balanced and flavorful dressing, you can use a simple vinaigrette or make your own using:

• Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons
• Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tablespoon
• Honey or Maple Syrup: 1 teaspoon
• Dijon Mustard: 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt and Pepper: to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Wash and Dry the Greens: If using fresh greens, wash and thoroughly dry them. Use a salad spinner or pat them dry with a kitchen towel. Place the mixed greens in a large salad bowl.
2. Prepare the Other Ingredients:
   • Mandarin Oranges: If using canned mandarin oranges, drain them well. If you’re using fresh oranges, peel and separate them into segments.
   • Red Onion: Thinly slice the red onion and add to the bowl with the greens.
   • Cucumber: Slice the cucumber into rounds or half-moons and add to the salad.
   • Dried Cranberries and Toasted Nuts: Add the dried cranberries and slivered almonds or walnuts for a touch of sweetness and crunch.

Step 2: Make the Dressing (Optional)

3. Whisk the Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste. This dressing complements the sweet and tangy elements of the salad without overpowering them.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

4. Combine the Ingredients: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Be careful not to over-toss, as you want to keep the greens fresh and intact.
5. Add Feta Cheese: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top. The feta adds a creamy, tangy flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the fruit.

Step 4: Serve

6. Plate and Enjoy: Transfer the salad to serving plates or a large platter and enjoy immediately.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 160
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 10mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 15g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients a few hours ahead, but for the freshest taste and texture, wait to combine the dressing and greens until just before serving. Store the greens separately from the other ingredients to keep them crisp.

2. What other types of cheese work well in this salad?

If you’re not a fan of feta, goat cheese or blue cheese crumbles are great alternatives. These cheeses also bring a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet fruit.

3. Can I add protein to make this salad a main course?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sliced avocado work wonderfully with this salad. These proteins make it heartier without overshadowing the flavors of the greens and fruits.

4. Can I substitute the nuts?

Yes! Pecans or pistachios can be used instead of almonds or walnuts. Just make sure to toast them lightly for extra flavor.

5. Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, to make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese and use maple syrup in the dressing instead of honey.

Tips for Making the Best Mandarin Orange and Mixed Greens Salad

1. Toast the Nuts: Toasting the almonds or walnuts brings out their natural oils, giving them a deeper, nuttier flavor. You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, shaking occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Use Fresh Mandarin Oranges if Possible: While canned mandarins are convenient, fresh ones offer a juicier, more vibrant flavor. They’re easy to peel and segment and add a bit of extra brightness.
3. Chill the Salad Before Serving: For an extra-refreshing dish, prepare the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving. This makes it especially delicious on a warm day.
4. Experiment with Greens: Don’t be afraid to mix up the greens. You can combine arugula with spinach, add some romaine for crunch, or even use spring mix for a more diverse base.
5. Adjust the Sweetness in the Dressing: If you prefer a sweeter salad, add a touch more honey or maple syrup to the dressing. Conversely, if you like it tangier, add a little extra apple cider vinegar.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate the Salad: If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. However, the greens may lose some of their crispness.
• Separate Dressing and Greens: For best results when making ahead, store the dressing and greens separately. This prevents the greens from wilting. Add the dressing only when you’re ready to serve.
• Nuts: Store the toasted nuts in a separate container to keep them crunchy. They can soften if left mixed in the salad for too long.

Conclusion

This Mandarin Orange and Mixed Greens Salad is a refreshing, light, and nutritious dish that can complement a wide range of meals or stand on its own as a healthy option. The combination of sweet mandarin oranges, tart cranberries, creamy feta, and crunchy nuts creates a delicious balance of flavors and textures, making it an instant favorite for gatherings or family meals. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing for substitutions and add-ons based on your preferences.

Whether you’re serving this salad as a festive holiday side dish or as a refreshing lunch during warmer months, it’s sure to impress with its fresh ingredients, beautiful colors, and delicious flavors. This simple yet elegant salad will easily become a staple on your dining table year-round. Enjoy the delicious blend of textures and flavors with each bite!