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Fresh Mandarin Orange Salad with Candied Pecans

fresh mandarin orange salad - featured image
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A vibrant and refreshing salad combining sweet mandarin oranges, crunchy candied pecans, and mixed greens with a light citrus dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch, side dish, or light snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (120g) pecans
  • 2 tablespoons (25g) brown sugar
  • Pinch of cinnamon
  • 5 cups (150g) mixed salad greens (butter lettuce, spinach, arugula)
  • Mandarin oranges, peeled and segmented (fresh or canned in juice, drained)
  • 1/4 cup (40g) red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup (60g) crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons (45ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon (7g) honey
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the candied pecans: Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add pecans, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir constantly for 4-5 minutes until pecans are toasted and sugar melts into a glossy coating. Transfer to parchment paper to cool.
  2. Segment the mandarin oranges: Peel and separate into segments, removing seeds and pith. If using canned, drain well.
  3. Slice the red onion: Thinly slice and soak in cold water for 5 minutes if desired to mellow sharpness.
  4. Make the dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
  5. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, mandarin segments, sliced onion, feta cheese, and cooled candied pecans.
  6. Toss gently: Drizzle dressing over salad and toss gently to coat evenly without bruising greens.
  7. Serve immediately: Best enjoyed fresh. If prepping ahead, keep dressing separate until ready to serve.

Notes

Keep stirring candied pecans constantly to avoid burning. Let pecans cool completely on parchment paper to prevent clumping. Soak sliced onions in cold water to mellow sharpness. Prepare salad just before serving to keep greens crisp. Store candied pecans separately if making ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: mandarin orange salad, candied pecans, healthy salad, citrus salad, easy salad recipe, vegetarian salad, gluten-free salad

Find it online: https://pokirecipes.com/fresh-mandarin-orange-salad-with-candied-pecans-easy-healthy-citrus-recipe/