Mandarin Orange Salad Recipe

Mandarin Orange Salad: A Fresh Burst of Flavor You’ll Love

ByAnna

Welcome to homeasyrecipes.com where tradition meets taste. Hello! I’m Anna, the heart behind HomeasyRecipes, a cozy corner dedicated to celebrating timeless recipes and the warmth of shared meals. Inspired by my beloved grandmother, Mary, this site is a tribute to her wisdom, love, and the unforgettable flavors she brought to our family table. If you’re anything like me, you love a good recipe that actually works—the kind that doesn’t leave you drowning in dishes or hunting down ingredients you’ve never heard of. That’s what this site is all about. Real recipes, real life, no fluff. I started homeasyrecipes.com because I wanted to make home cooking feel less like a chore and more like something to look forward to. You’ll find everything here—from quick 20-minute meals to comfort food for those slow Sundays. Oh, and plenty of desserts, because priorities. I’m not a professional chef—I’m just a home cook who’s learned (sometimes the hard way) how to make tasty, doable meals that don’t break the bank or your spirit. So, whether you’re cooking for one, feeding a family, or just trying to figure out what to do with those ripe mandarin oranges, I’ve got you. Come hang out, try a few recipes, and let’s make cooking fun again. Welcome to homeasyrecipes.com. Let’s get cooking with this vibrant Mandarin Orange Salad that’s perfect for any occasion.

Table of Contents

Why Mandarin Orange Salad Deserves a Spot at Your Table

The Allure of Mandarin Orange Salad

There’s something undeniably refreshing about a Mandarin Orange Salad. The tangy sweetness of juicy mandarin segments pairs beautifully with crisp greens, tender chicken, and crunchy nuts. It’s a salad that feels like a meal—light but satisfying, colorful yet comforting.

Health Benefits of Including Mandarin Oranges

Mandarin oranges are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and dietary fiber. When tossed into a salad, they not only enhance the flavor but also boost immunity, promote radiant skin, and support digestion. This salad is a delicious way to nourish your body while delighting your taste buds.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Mandarin Orange Salad Recipe

Mandarin Orange Salad: A Fresh Burst of Flavor You’ll Love

  • Author: Anna
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Tossing
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Calorie
Print Recipe

Description

This Mandarin Orange Salad is light, refreshing, and packed with flavor. Featuring tender chicken, crisp greens, juicy mandarin segments, and crunchy nuts tossed in a tangy red wine vinaigrette, it’s perfect as a side dish or a complete meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/3 cup oil
  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • Coarse salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 head red leaf lettuce, cut
  • 1 head romaine lettuce, cut
  • 3 stalks celery, thinly sliced
  • 1 bunch green onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 cooked chicken breasts, cut into ½” pieces
  • ¼ cup peanuts
  • ¼ cup sliced almonds
  • 1 cup canned or fresh mandarin oranges
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh mint
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh basil
  • Coarse salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Add oil, red wine vinegar, sugar, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to a bowl. Whisk vigorously until emulsified to make the dressing. Set aside.
  2. Wash and thoroughly dry the red leaf and romaine lettuce.
  3. Thinly slice celery and green onions. Cut chicken breasts into ½” pieces.
  4. Drain mandarin oranges if using canned.
  5. In a large serving bowl, combine lettuce, celery, green onions, chicken, peanuts, almonds, and mandarin oranges.
  6. Toss with vinaigrette, salt, and pepper until combined.
  7. Garnish with minced mint and basil. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Wash and dry lettuce thoroughly to prevent sogginess.
  • Add cucumbers, bell peppers, or shredded carrots for extra crunch.
  • Use a stand mixer or food processor to emulsify the dressing quickly.
  • Only use fresh herbs in the salad for vibrant flavor.
  • Prepare up to 1 day ahead, keeping salad and dressing separate for freshness.
  • Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, with dressing stored separately.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 250g)
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: Mandarin Orange Salad, citrus salad, chicken salad, summer salad, easy salad recipe

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Mandarin Orange Salad

Fresh and Flavorful Components That Make It Shine

The secret to a truly unforgettable Mandarin Orange Salad lies in using high-quality, fresh ingredients. Each element plays a role in creating layers of flavor and texture.

    t">
  • Red leaf lettuce and romaine lettuce: These greens provide the crisp, tender base that supports the other flavors. Red leaf adds a subtle earthy tone, while romaine contributes satisfying crunch.
  • Mandarin oranges: Whether canned or freshly peeled, these sweet and tangy citrus jewels bring vibrant color and zesty sweetness. For best results, drain canned mandarins thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.
  • Cooked chicken breast pieces: Tender chunks of seasoned chicken make this salad hearty enough for a main course. Rotisserie chicken also works as a quick alternative.
  • Celery and green onions: Celery adds refreshing crunch, and green onions introduce a mild onion flavor without overpowering the citrus notes.
  • Peanuts and sliced almonds: Nuts provide a delightful contrast with their crunchy texture and nutty richness. Toasting them lightly enhances their aroma.
  • Fresh herbs – mint and basil: Herbs elevate the entire salad with their fragrant, bright flavors, making every bite more exciting.

    • Dressing That Ties It All Together

    No Mandarin Orange Salad is complete without a tangy-sweet vinaigrette that enhances the medley of flavors. This homemade dressing blends simple pantry staples into something extraordinary:

    • Oil: Choose a neutral oil like grapeseed or a light olive oil for the base.
    • Red wine vinegar: Offers acidity that balances the sweetness of the oranges and sugar.
    • Sugar: Just a touch to round out the tartness.
    • Chopped fresh parsley: Adds an herbal freshness.
    • Coarse salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.

    When emulsified prop

    erly, this dressing clings beautifully to every ingredient, ensuring consistent flavor throughout. For an easy hack, mix it in a blender or shake vigorously in a mason jar.

    Ingredient Swaps and Additions for Your Mandarin Orange Salad

    This salad is endlessly customizable. Readers often search for variations like mandarin orange spinach salad or mandarin orange chicken salad with sesame dressing. Consider these creative upgrades:

    • Swap romaine for baby spinach or a spring mix for a more delicate texture.
    • Replace chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu for a pescatarian or vegan option.
    • Add a sprinkle of feta cheese or goat cheese for creaminess.
    • Include extra veggies like shredded carrots, cucumber slices, or bell peppers for more crunch and color.
    -image size-full">

    Why Quality Ingredients Matter

    Fresh, quality produce and proteins elevate the flavor and appearance of your Mandarin Orange Salad. Poor-quality ingredients can lead to soggy greens, bland chicken, and dull citrus. To avoid this:

    • Wash and dry lettuce thoroughly (a salad spinner works wonders).
    • Use freshly cooked chicken whenever possible for best taste and texture.
    • Opt for organic or in-season mandarin oranges for superior sweetness and aroma.

    By focusing on ingredient quality, you create a salad that is not just a side dish but a standout meal.

    -image size-full">

    Step-By-Step Guide to Making Mandarin Orange Salad

    Preparing the Ingredients Like a Pro

    Creating the ultimate Mandarin Orange Salad starts with prep work that ensures each bite delivers the perfect mix of flavors and textures.

    1. Wash and Dry the Greens Thoroughly
      Crisp greens are non-negotiable. Start by washing the red leaf lettuce and romaine under cold running water. Pat dry gently with a kitchen towel or use a salad spinner to remove every drop of moisture. Wet lettuce will cause your dressing to slip off and create a soggy salad.
    2. Slice and Dice with Precision
      • Thinly slice celery stalks for a refreshing crunch.
      • Chop green onions finely to distribute their mild onion flavor evenly.
      • Cut cooked chicken breasts into ½-inch pieces for hearty, bite-sized portions.
    3. Handle the Mandarin Oranges Carefully
      If you’re using canned mandarins, drain them well to prevent extra liquid from pooling at the bottom of your bowl. For fresh mandarin oranges, peel and segment them gently, removing any seeds or pith.
    4. Toast the Nuts for Extra Depth
      Place sliced almonds and peanuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly until fragrant. Toasting enhances their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch to your Mandarin Orange Salad.