Spinach Mandarin Salad

Whenever I think of spring, I’m reminded of the vibrant colors and fresh flavors that come alive during this beautiful season. One dish that perfectly encapsulates this is the Spinach Mandarin Salad. This delicious combination is a staple at our family gatherings, where the brightness of the mandarin oranges dances with the earthy notes of baby spinach. I remember the first time I made this salad; it was for a sunny picnic in the park. As I tossed the ingredients together, I could practically hear the crunch of the sliced almonds and the delightful sweetness of the dried cranberries whispering promises of a refreshing meal. And let’s not forget about the honey balsamic dressing – it’s the cherry on top that ties everything together, creating a medley of flavors that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients Overview for Spinach Mandarin Salad

The ingredients for the Spinach Mandarin Salad work together harmoniously to create a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Each component plays a crucial role, from the crispness of the spinach to the sweetness of the mandarins. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

• 10 oz baby spinach – The base of your salad, providing a fresh and nutritious foundation.
• 1 can mandarin oranges (approx. 15 oz), drained, or 4 fresh mandarins, peeled and sectioned – Adds a burst of sweetness and vibrant color.
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced – Provides a sharp contrast to the sweet fruits.
• 1/2 cup goat cheese crumbles – Introduces a creamy texture with a tangy flavor.
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds – Brings a satisfying crunch and nutty taste.
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries – Adds a touch of sweetness and chewy texture.
• 1/2 cup olive oil – Serves as the base for your dressing, contributing healthy fats.
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar – Adds depth and acidity to balance the sweetness.
• 1-2 tbsp honey – Sweetens your dressing naturally.
• 2 tsp Dijon mustard – Gives the dressing a lovely flavor kick.
• Sea salt and pepper – To taste, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Cooking Instructions for Spinach Mandarin Salad

Making the Spinach Mandarin Salad is a breeze and incredibly rewarding. Follow these easy steps to create a dish that will impress your family and friends.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. While it heats up, spread out the sliced almonds on a baking sheet. You want them to toast until they’re fragrant, which should take about 4 to 6 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning; they should turn a golden brown.

2. In a medium bowl, combine the baby spinach, mandarin oranges, red onion, goat cheese, sliced almonds, and dried cranberries. Toss these ingredients gently with your hands to ensure an even distribution.

3. Next, you’ll prepare the dressing. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Take your time to mix these until smooth. You might want to adjust the salt and pepper as you mix to achieve your desired flavor.

4. Once your dressing is ready, pour it over the salad mixture. Toss everything together just before serving so that the spinach stays crisp and fresh. If you find the dressing too thick, a splash of water can help thin it out.

5. Lastly, serve your salad immediately. The flavors are best when fresh, and the colors will pop, making it a beautiful addition to your table.

Ways to Customize

The beauty of the Spinach Mandarin Salad lies in its versatility. Below are some ideas to make it uniquely yours:

• Add Protein: Consider adding grilled chicken or tofu for a heartier meal.
• Mix in Other Fruits: Try adding sliced strawberries or apples for variation in flavors.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Swap out the goat cheese for feta or blue cheese for a different taste experience.
• Vary the Nuts: Use walnuts or pecans if you’re not a fan of almonds.
• Try Different Dressings: A citrus vinaigrette works wonderfully if you want to change things up.
• Add Avocado: For creaminess, consider adding slices of avocado to your salad.
• Seasonal Variations: Adapt the ingredients based on the season; think about using apples in fall or strawberries in summer.

Great Combinations for Spinach Mandarin Salad

When it comes to enjoying your Spinach Mandarin Salad, consider these delightful pairings:

• Perfect as a Side Dish: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, providing a refreshing contrast to heartier mains.
• Lunch Delight: Serve it as a light lunch alongside a warm bowl of soup for a comforting meal.
• Ideal for Picnics: Pack it for a picnic; its portability and flavor make it a favorite among friends and family.
• Seasonal Celebrations: This salad shines at spring gatherings, Easter brunches, or any sunny day get-together.
• Storage Tips: While best enjoyed fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Make It Ahead: Prepare the salad components ahead of time and mix them right before serving for maximum freshness.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Spinach Mandarin Salad is truly a wonderful dish that brings together freshness and flavor in every bite. Its delightful combination of ingredients makes it a standout choice for any occasion, whether it’s a casual lunch or a festive gathering. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your household as it is in mine. Embrace the vibrant tastes of spring and enjoy the health benefits this salad offers!

Spinach Mandarin Salad

Craving something light and refreshing? The Spinach Mandarin Salad is your answer! Packed with vibrant flavors from fresh spinach and sweet mandarin oranges, this easy salad is the perfect addition to your table. Enjoy it today for a delightful meal!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 7 minutes mins

Total Time 17 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salads

Cuisine: American

Calories: 200

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 10 oz baby spinach
• 1 can mandarin oranges (approx. 15 oz), drained, or 4 fresh mandarins, peeled and sectioned
• 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup goat cheese crumbles
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1-2 tbsp honey
• 2 tsp Dijon mustard
• Sea salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Oven
• Whisk
• Peeler

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread out the sliced almonds on a baking sheet and toast until fragrant, about 4 to 6 minutes.
2. In a medium bowl, combine baby spinach, mandarin oranges, red onion, goat cheese, sliced almonds, and dried cranberries. Toss gently to mix.
3. Prepare the dressing by whisking together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Adjust with salt and pepper as desired.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss just before serving to keep the spinach fresh.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of flavors!

Notes

• Tip 1: For best results, wait to add dressing until just before serving.
• Tip 2: If you prepare this salad in advance, don’t toss in the dressing until about 15-20 minutes before serving.
• Tip 3: There is no need to remove the baby spinach stems, but you certainly can if desired.
• Tip 4: Store your salad for up to 3-4 days.
• Tip 5: This spinach mandarin salad is best eaten within the first two days for optimal freshness.

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Meet Adele Mercer

Every meal deserves a spectacular finish, whether it is a savory main or a sweet treat. I enjoy the entire creative cycle, from kneading dough to editing the final photos. I developed this recipe to be approachable for home cooks while ensuring it delivers the high-quality results you expect.