Bright, refreshing, and bursting with flavor, this Mandarin Orange Salad combines juicy citrus, crisp red onion, and fresh herbs in a light, tangy ginger-honey dressing. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and zesty—ideal as a summer side dish, light lunch, or vibrant starter for any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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No cooking required—just chop, whisk, and toss!
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Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free
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Versatile—works as a side dish or a standalone light meal
Ingredients Breakdown
Salad Ingredients:
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1 cup (140g) fresh mandarin orange segments – Juicy and sweet, they add brightness and natural sweetness to the salad.
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½ cup (70g) red onion, thinly sliced – Brings a crisp texture and a sharp, savory contrast to the sweetness of the oranges.
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¼ cup (30g) fresh cilantro, chopped – Adds a burst of fresh, herbal flavor that ties the citrus and onion together.
For the Dressing:
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¼ cup (60ml) olive oil – Forms the base of the vinaigrette, adding richness and smooth mouthfeel.
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2 tablespoons (30ml) rice vinegar – Provides acidity and lightness to balance the sweetness.
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1 tablespoon (15ml) honey – Naturally sweetens the dressing and complements the mandarin flavor.
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½ teaspoon (2.5ml) grated ginger – Infuses the dressing with warmth and a subtle spicy zing.
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Enhances all the flavors and adds balance to the dressing.
Tips and Tricks
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Use seedless mandarins or canned mandarin segments (in juice, not syrup) if fresh ones aren’t available.
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Soak onions in cold water for 5 minutes to reduce sharpness before adding to the salad.
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Add crunch with a sprinkle of chopped almonds, cashews, or sunflower seeds.
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Chill before serving for a refreshing bite, especially in summer.
Variations and Customizations
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Make it a meal: Add grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu for protein.
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Extra sweetness: Toss in sliced strawberries or pomegranate seeds.
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Add greens: Serve over a bed of arugula, spinach, or mixed spring greens.
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Vegan version: Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Pairing Suggestions
This bright citrus salad pairs perfectly with:
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Grilled salmon or chicken
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Asian-inspired dishes like sesame noodles or miso-glazed vegetables
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Light soups such as carrot ginger or coconut curry
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
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Avoid sogginess: For best results, store the dressing separately and toss just before serving.
Popular Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but store the dressing separately to keep the oranges and cilantro fresh until ready to serve.
Can I use bottled mandarin orange segments?
Absolutely—just drain them well and choose versions packed in juice, not syrup.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, simply swap the honey for maple syrup or another plant-based sweetener.
