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Bright and Zesty Mandarin Orange Salad with Candied Pecans and Poppy Seed Dressing

A bright mandarin orange salad featuring mixed greens, bright orange segments, toasted nuts, and poppy seeds.
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Make this fresh Mandarin Orange Salad featuring crisp greens, sweet oranges, crunchy candied pecans, and a tangy poppy seed dressing. It is a simple, refreshing side dish perfect for summer gatherings or holidays.

Ingredients

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  • 6 cups mixed greens (spinach and romaine blend)
  • 2 (15 ounce) cans mandarin oranges, drained
  • 1/2 cup candied pecans
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 cup poppy seeds
  • 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the candied pecans if you do not have them ready. Toss pecans with 1 tablespoon of sugar and a splash of water, then toast in a dry skillet over medium heat until sugar caramelizes slightly. Set aside to cool.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, remaining sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
  3. Slowly drizzle in the vegetable oil while continuously whisking until the dressing emulsifies. Stir in the poppy seeds.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, drained mandarin oranges, and sliced red onion.
  5. Just before serving, drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to coat.
  6. Top the salad with the candied pecans and feta cheese, if using. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For a sweeter, fluff-style side dish reminiscent of classic potluck recipes, omit the greens, red onion, and feta. Fold the drained mandarin oranges into 1 cup of whipped topping (like Cool Whip) and 1 package of softened, prepared orange Jello mix. Chill until set.
  • To make quick candied pecans, heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a small pan, add pecans and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar melts and coats the nuts. Spread on parchment paper to cool.
  • This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. Consider this recipe when looking at meal planning options for light dinners.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delicerecipe.com/mandarin-orange-salad-recipe-zesty-pecans/