Are cuties the same as mandarin oranges?

Yes, Cuties are a type of mandarin orange. They’re small, easy to peel, and seedless, making them an excellent choice for Mandarin Orange Salad and other recipes.

What can you do with a bunch of mandarin oranges?

Aside from tossing them into salads, mandarin oranges are perfect for smoothies, marinades, desserts like Mandarin Orange Jello Salad, or even savory dishes like glazed chicken. They also make a healthy snack on their own or can be turned into homemade marmalade.

What pairs well with mandarin oranges?

Mandarin oranges pair beautifully with a variety of ingredients. Try combining them with creamy goat cheese, toasted nuts, fresh herbs like mint or basil, and proteins like shrimp or chicken. They also complement grains such as quinoa and add a bright contrast to savory elements.

What goes in a mandarin salad?

A traditional Mandarin Orange Salad includes crisp leafy greens like romaine or red leaf lettuce, sweet mandarin orange segments, crunchy nuts such as almonds or peanuts, and optional protein like grilled chicken. Fresh herbs, celery, and green onions add depth, while a tangy vinaigrette dressing brings it all together.

Mandarin Orange Salad – Best Easy Recipe 2025 (58 characters)

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

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