Ingredients & Substitutions
Here I explain the best mandarin salad ingredients, what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.
Mandarin Orange Salad:
Spinach – My favorite greens to use in this salad with mandarin oranges, but you can substitute with arugula, kale, or a spring mix for similar results. Mandarin Oranges – Tangerines, clementines, or even fresh orange segments are great alternatives. For a more fruity salad, consider adding pineapple tidbits, strawberries, kiwi, or mango chunks. Goat Cheese – Adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the fruit. If you prefer a different kind of cheese, you could use feta or blue cheese. Walnuts – Add earthy flavor and satisfying crunch. Almonds, pecans, or toasted pine nuts can also work for a nutty texture. Use sunflower seeds or pepitas for a nut-free option. Dried Cranberries – I made my own sugar free dried cranberries, but store-bought can save time.
Orange Honey Vinaigrette:
Olive Oil – While I prefer olive oil, avocado oil also works. Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds tang and emulsifies the dressing. You can also use white wine vinegar, red wine vinegar, or lemon juice. Orange Honey – I used my Wholesome Yum Zero Sugar Orange Honey in this mandarin orange salad recipe for no added sugar, but you can use regular orange blossom honey if it fits your diet. Sea Salt & Black Pepper
How To Make Mandarin Orange Salad
This section shows how to make salad with mandarin oranges, with step-by-step photos and details about the technique, to help you visualize it. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card.
Storage Instructions
Store: Keep the mandarin salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, with the vinaigrette separate to maintain freshness and crunch. Meal prep: Prepare the orange honey vinaigrette in advance and keep it in a mason jar in the fridge.
What To Serve With Mandarin Salad
Pair your mandarin orange salad with a proteinf or a complete meal:
Chicken – Make some simple grilled chicken breasts or grilled chicken thighs. Enjoy the chicken as a main course or add it on top of the salad for a protein-packed meal. Seafood – Pair your salad with jerk salmon for a citrus-based meal, or choose seared scallops for a light option. Steak – A classic New York strip steak tastes great with the mandarin salad. If you like sweet and tangy, try topping your salad with flank steak (like in my steak salad). Pork – This salad with mandarin oranges would be a perfect match with some juicy air fryer pork chops or a pork tenderloin.
More Fruity Salad Recipes
Love the sweetness of fresh fruit in a salad? Check out some of my other easy salad recipes with fruit: Please enter your first name for your account. Your saved recipe will also be sent to your email. Nutrition info uses sugar-free orange honey and sugar-free dried cranberries, but regular will also work.
