Description
A refreshing and vibrant Mandarin Orange Salad combining baby spinach, arugula, mandarin oranges, toasted walnuts, and dried cranberries, topped with shaved Parmesan and tossed in a tangy homemade poppy seed dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 3 cups baby spinach
- 3 cups arugula
- 1 (11-oz.) can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup toasted walnuts
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan
- Pinch of flaky sea salt
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Combine the salad ingredients: In a large bowl, toss together the baby spinach, arugula, drained mandarin oranges, toasted walnuts, and dried cranberries until evenly mixed.
- Prepare the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, orange juice, honey, poppy seeds, and Dijon mustard. Gradually drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil while continuously whisking until the dressing is fully emulsified. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Toss the salad with dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine all ingredients and coat them evenly.
- Finish and serve: Sprinkle the shaved Parmesan over the top of the salad and add a pinch of flaky sea salt. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors.
Notes
- To toast walnuts, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden.
- For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- The salad is best served fresh; however, you can prepare the dressing ahead and store separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to switch walnuts for pecans or almonds depending on preference.
- Adjust honey quantity to taste if you prefer a sweeter or less sweet dressing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes (toasting walnuts)
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: mandarin orange salad, spinach salad, poppy seed dressing, walnut salad, healthy salad, easy salad recipe
