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
No cooking required—just chop, whisk, and toss!
Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free
Versatile—works as a side dish or a standalone light meal
Ingredients Breakdown
Salad Ingredients:
1 cup (140g) fresh mandarin orange segments – Juicy and sweet, they add brightness and natural sweetness to the salad.
½ cup (70g) red onion, thinly sliced – Brings a crisp texture and a sharp, savory contrast to the sweetness of the oranges.
¼ cup (30g) fresh cilantro, chopped – Adds a burst of fresh, herbal flavor that ties the citrus and onion together.
For the Dressing:
¼ cup (60ml) olive oil – Forms the base of the vinaigrette, adding richness and smooth mouthfeel.
2 tablespoons (30ml) rice vinegar – Provides acidity and lightness to balance the sweetness.
1 tablespoon (15ml) honey – Naturally sweetens the dressing and complements the mandarin flavor.
½ teaspoon (2.5ml) grated ginger – Infuses the dressing with warmth and a subtle spicy zing.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Enhances all the flavors and adds balance to the dressing.
Tips and Tricks
Use seedless mandarins or canned mandarin segments (in juice, not syrup) if fresh ones aren’t available.
Soak onions in cold water for 5 minutes to reduce sharpness before adding to the salad.
Add crunch with a sprinkle of chopped almonds, cashews, or sunflower seeds.
Chill before serving for a refreshing bite, especially in summer.
Variations and Customizations
Make it a meal: Add grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu for protein.
Extra sweetness: Toss in sliced strawberries or pomegranate seeds.
Add greens: Serve over a bed of arugula, spinach, or mixed spring greens.
Vegan version: Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Pairing Suggestions
This bright citrus salad pairs perfectly with:
Grilled salmon or chicken
Asian-inspired dishes like sesame noodles or miso-glazed vegetables
Light soups such as carrot ginger or coconut curry
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
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.
