Name: Crunchy Mandarin Kale Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 bunches lacinato kale (thinly sliced, tuscan); ½ small head red cabbage (thinly sliced); 2 cups grated carrot; 1 bunch green onion (chopped); 1 large ripe mango (chopped); 4 to 6 mandarins (peeled and separated); 1 large ripe avocado (peeled and sliced); Slivered almonds and sesame seeds (for serving); ¼ cup lemon juice; ¼ cup rice vinegar; ½ cup olive oil; 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup; 1 teaspoon poppy seeds

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Ever found yourself craving something fresh, vibrant, and full of crunch? That’s how I felt when I first made this Crunchy Mandarin Kale Salad. It was a warm spring afternoon, and the sun was shining brightly. I had just returned from the farmer’s market, bursting with excitement over the colorful produce I had gathered. The kale looked particularly inviting, its deep green leaves promising a wholesome base for a salad. I knew I wanted to create something that truly celebrated the season, and with juicy mandarins in hand, I couldn’t resist. The sweet and tangy flavors of the mandarins paired beautifully with the earthy notes of the kale. As I tossed everything together, I could almost taste spring in every bite.

Bringing this salad to life in my kitchen was a joyful experience. I’ve always loved how salads can be so versatile, allowing you to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand. The addition of avocado and mango not only added a creamy texture but also a tropical flair that instantly brightened my mood. When I first served it to friends, they were taken aback by how tasty a salad could be, quickly asking for second helpings. I knew then that this Crunchy Mandarin Kale Salad was destined to become a staple at our gatherings.

As the days grew warmer, this salad became my go-to side dish for barbecues and outdoor picnics. Its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors perfectly complemented grilled dishes and made it a hit at every event. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare, which means I can whip it up in no time, even on busy days. I love sharing this recipe with you, not just for its taste but for the memories it brings. It’s not just a salad; it’s a reminder to enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Vegan

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Grater, Blender, Peeler, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife

FAQ

The Crunchy Mandarin Kale Salad is packed with texture! The key to its crunchiness lies in the fresh kale and red cabbage, both of which provide a satisfying bite. The addition of grated carrots and mandarins adds both sweetness and crunch, while slivered almonds contribute a delightful crunch that complements the overall experience. Together, these ingredients create a salad that’s not only refreshing but also fun to eat!

Absolutely! You can prepare the components of the Crunchy Mandarin Kale Salad ahead of time. I recommend chopping the kale, cabbage, and carrots and storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also prepare the dressing separately and keep it in a jar. Just toss everything together right before serving to maintain the crunchiness of the salad. This salad is perfect for meal prep and makes a quick, healthy lunch option!

This Crunchy Mandarin Kale Salad is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. It’s a fantastic side for grilled chicken, fish, or any protein of your choice. You could also serve it alongside a hearty soup or as part of a vegetarian meal with quinoa or roasted vegetables. It’s perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or a light lunch. Don’t hesitate to get creative with pairing it; it complements many flavors wonderfully!

If you find yourself with leftovers of the Crunchy Mandarin Kale Salad, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it can last for up to two days. Just keep in mind that the kale and cabbage might lose some crunch due to the dressing, so I recommend keeping the dressing separate if you plan to make it ahead. Enjoy the leftovers as a quick lunch or snack!

Conclusion

The Crunchy Mandarin Kale Salad is a delightful dish that celebrates fresh flavors and textures. With its combination of sweet mandarins, creamy avocado, and crunchy greens, it’s a perfect addition to any meal. I encourage you to try making this salad for your next gathering or meal prep. Trust me, it’ll brighten up your dining table and bring smiles all around!

Crunchy Mandarin Kale Salad

Craving something fresh and vibrant? Dive into this Crunchy Mandarin Kale Salad that balances the earthy flavors of kale with the sweetness of mandarin oranges and creamy avocado. Perfect for spring gatherings or a light lunch, this salad is quick to prepare and delicious to eat!

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Prep Time 20

Total Time 20

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salads

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 bunches lacinato kale thinly sliced, tuscan
½ small head red cabbage thinly sliced
2 cups grated carrot
1 bunch green onion chopped
1 large ripe mango chopped
4 to 6 mandarins peeled and separated
1 large ripe avocado peeled and sliced
Slivered almonds and sesame seeds for serving
¼ cup lemon juice
¼ cup rice vinegar
½ cup olive oil
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon poppy seeds

Equipment

Grater
Blender
Peeler
Wooden Spoon
Chef's Knife

Method

Add all of the ingredients for the salad dressing except for the poppy seeds to a small blender. Blend until completely smooth. Stir in the poppy seeds and set aside until ready to use.
Add all of the ingredients for the salad to a large serving bowl. Drizzle desired amount of dressing over salad and toss well to ensure everything is coated. Serve with sliced almonds and sesame seeds.

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to two days, but expect the ingredients to soften slightly.
Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad since the texture will change.
Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a great side for summer barbecues.