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Growing up in Chicago, my kitchen was always the heart of our home. My babcia, with her thick Polish accent and endless patience, would guide me through the art of crafting simple yet delightful dishes. One of my fondest memories is of her teaching me how to make a refreshing salad that has since become a staple in my own household: the Mandarin Orange Salad with Olive Dressing. This dish is a beautiful blend of sweet and savory, reminiscent of the comforting yet vibrant meals I grew up with, and it’s one that my family can’t get enough of, especially during those hot summer days.
What makes this salad so special is its ability to capture the essence of both my Polish roots and my American upbringing. The sweetness of the mandarin oranges paired with the briny olives creates a harmony of flavors that dances on your palate. It’s a testament to how food can bring together diverse cultures in one delicious bite. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu family gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Mandarin Orange Salad with Olive Dressing is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a delight for the eyes. The vibrant colors of the oranges, greens, and olives make it a stunning centerpiece for any meal. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and packed with vitamins, making it a healthy choice for the whole family.
You’ll love how versatile this salad is. It can be served as a light lunch, a side dish for a hearty dinner, or even a refreshing appetizer for a summer barbecue. The combination of flavors is both unexpected and delightful, offering a unique twist on the traditional salad.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh spinach or mixed greens
- 1 cup mandarin orange segments, drained if canned
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
- For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, mandarin orange segments, black olives, red onion, feta cheese, and walnuts.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are coated with the dressing.
- Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
What Makes This Recipe Special
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Packed with flavor and nutrition
- Perfect for any occasion
- Customizable to your taste preferences
- Budget-friendly ingredients
Expert Tips for Success
To ensure your Mandarin Orange Salad with Olive Dressing is a hit, consider these expert tips. Use fresh mandarin oranges when in season for the best flavor, but canned varieties work just as well in a pinch. Toasting the walnuts enhances their nutty flavor, adding an extra layer of depth to the salad. If you prefer a creamier dressing, add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt to the mix. And remember, the key to a great salad is balance—taste the dressing before adding it to the salad to adjust the seasoning as needed.
When I make this recipe, my go-to tool is the MOSFiATA 8″ Professional Chef’s Knife. It makes slicing the red onions and olives a breeze, ensuring even cuts for a consistent texture throughout the salad. I also love using the Silicone Utensils Set for tossing the salad gently without bruising the delicate greens.
Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with this salad. Swap out the spinach for arugula or kale for a different texture and flavor profile. If you’re not a fan of olives, try substituting with capers for a similar briny kick. For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts and add sunflower seeds instead. You can also add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a more substantial meal.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs beautifully with a crusty loaf of bread or a side of grilled vegetables. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a bowl of creamy tomato soup or a hearty pasta dish. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the citrusy notes of the salad perfectly, making it an ideal choice for a summer lunch on the patio.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients and dressing separately up to a day in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator and combine just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.
What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
No worries! You can substitute balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. Ensure the honey in the dressing is replaced with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Final Thoughts
This Mandarin Orange Salad with Olive Dressing is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and cultures coming together in harmony. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it with your loved ones as much as I do. Remember, the best meals are those made with love and shared with family and friends.
👉 I hope you loved making this Mandarin Orange Salad with Olive Dressing—it’s like a burst of sunshine in every bite! If you’re looking for more refreshing dishes, check out my recipes for Summer Pasta Salad, Greek Cucumber Salad, or Berry Spinach Salad. Join us on our Facebook Page and Facebook Group — and don’t forget to follow on Pinterest for daily inspiration!
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Mandarin Orange Salad Olive: 5 Flavorful Combinations
A refreshing salad combining sweet mandarin oranges with savory olives, perfect for any occasion.
Keep the screen of your device on while you follow the steps.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, mandarin orange segments, black olives, red onion, feta cheese, and walnuts.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are coated with the dressing.
- Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.