Brighten your plate and your day with this vibrant Spinach Mandarin Salad, a delightful symphony of fresh, juicy mandarins, crisp baby spinach, and a homemade honey balsamic dressing. This effortlessly delicious salad comes together in just about 15 minutes, making it the perfect go-to side dish or light meal for any occasion. Featuring toasted almonds for crunch, sweet-tart dried cranberries, and creamy goat cheese, this recipe is designed to impress with its balanced flavors and inviting textures.
I’ve always believed that a truly great salad is far from boring. It should be a hearty, flavorful experience, bursting with a variety of textures and tastes. From generously loaded ingredients like crisp veggies and satisfying proteins to decadent cheeses and crunchy nuts, a salad should be an exciting culinary journey. This Spinach Mandarin Salad perfectly embodies that philosophy, delivering a delightful blend of freshness, sweetness, and tang in every bite.
My passion for creating vibrant, fulfilling salads is evident in other favorites like my Strawberry Arugula Goat Cheese Salad, the hearty Chickpea Avocado Salad, or the zesty Lemon Orzo Salad. Each recipe is crafted to challenge the notion of a ‘boring’ salad, and I am confident that this Spinach Mandarin Salad will not only meet but exceed your expectations for a truly memorable dish.
This versatile spinach salad makes an excellent accompaniment to a wide array of simple and delicious dinner recipes. Imagine pairing its bright flavors with the succulent Sheet Pan Lemon Chicken and Broccoli, the tender Dutch Oven Pork Tenderloin, or the comforting Crockpot Chuck Roast. For seafood lovers, it’s an especially fantastic complement to our Lemon Dill Salmon, adding a refreshing contrast that elevates the entire meal.
Why You Will Love This Spinach Mandarin Salad: A Feast for Your Senses
This isn’t just another salad; it’s a culinary experience designed for ease, flavor, and nutrition. Here’s why this Spinach Mandarin Salad is destined to become a staple in your kitchen:
- Effortless Preparation: In today’s busy world, time is a precious commodity. This salad requires minimal effort, taking only about 10-15 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a last-minute potluck contribution, or a refreshing lunch that doesn’t cut into your day.
- Nutrient-Packed Goodness: It’s generously loaded with fresh vegetables and other wholesome ingredients. Baby spinach provides a rich source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and folate. Mandarins bring a burst of vitamin C, essential for immune health and glowing skin. This salad is a delicious way to nourish your body.
- A Delicious Way to Enjoy Greens: If you struggle to incorporate enough greens into your diet, this salad is your solution. The natural sweetness of the mandarins and the tangy dressing beautifully balance the earthy flavor of spinach, making it incredibly appealing even to those who are typically hesitant about salads.
- Incredibly Versatile: This recipe serves as a fantastic foundation that can be easily adapted to your preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. It can be scaled up for a crowd, customized with various add-ins to suit different tastes, or even transformed into a satisfying main meal with the addition of a protein.
- Bright and Refreshing Flavors: The combination of sweet mandarins, tart cranberries, savory goat cheese, and crunchy almonds, all coated in a vibrant honey balsamic dressing, creates a flavor profile that is truly invigorating. It’s light yet satisfying, perfect for any season, and guaranteed to lift your spirits.
What Our Readers Are Raving About
Don’t just take our word for it! Here’s what some of our happy readers have to say about this fantastic Spinach Mandarin Salad:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I’m not someone who typically makes their own salad dressings, but this recipe looked so good in the pictures, I felt compelled to try it. And wow, it tasted absolutely amazing! Even my daughter, who isn’t particularly fond of uncooked spinach, really loved it. I’ve made it several times since, and sometimes I even add fresh blueberries, which seem to bridge the gap between the dried cranberries and juicy mandarin sections perfectly. They work incredibly well with all the other ingredients!” (Steve)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This salad is wonderfully balanced, sweet, and incredibly refreshing. It’s absolutely ideal for the summer months. Thank you so much for sharing this fabulous recipe idea!” (Arid)
Essential Recipe Ingredients: Crafting Your Perfect Salad
The beauty of this Spinach Mandarin Salad lies in the harmony of its carefully selected ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating a balanced and flavorful dish:
- Baby Spinach: The star of our salad, baby spinach forms a tender and nutritious base. Its mild flavor pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients. While baby spinach is specified, feel free to experiment with a mix of greens if you prefer a different texture or flavor profile. Arugula can add a peppery kick, or a spring mix can offer a delicate variety.
- Mandarin Oranges: These bring a burst of sweet, citrusy juiciness that makes the salad truly special. Both canned mandarins (well-drained) and fresh, peeled, and sectioned mandarins work beautifully. We often opt for canned for convenience, but fresh mandarins offer a slightly firmer texture and brighter flavor when in season.
- Red Onion: A small amount of thinly sliced red onion adds a subtle, piquant bite that cuts through the sweetness and richness of the other ingredients. Be sure to slice it very thin to ensure it doesn’t overpower the delicate flavors of the salad. If raw onion is too strong for your liking, you can soak it in ice water for a few minutes to mellow its flavor.
- Goat Cheese: Creamy, tangy goat cheese crumbles are a fantastic addition, providing a luxurious texture and a zesty counterpoint to the sweet mandarins. Crumbles are easiest to toss, but a soft goat cheese log can be crumbled by hand. If goat cheese isn’t your preference, crumbled feta cheese makes an excellent substitute. For a dairy-free option, simply omit the cheese or use your favorite vegan cheese alternative.
- Sliced Almonds: Toasted lightly, these sliced almonds provide a wonderful crunch and a nutty depth of flavor that complements the fruit and cheese. Toasting them briefly enhances their aroma and crispness. If almonds aren’t available or if you have an allergy, consider other nuts like pistachios, walnuts, or pecans (also excellent when toasted). For a nut-free version, pepitas (pumpkin seeds) or sunflower seeds are great crunchy alternatives.
- Dried Cranberries: These jewel-toned berries introduce a delightful chewiness and a perfect balance of tartness to the salad, offsetting the sweetness of the mandarins and honey in the dressing. We prefer a lower-sugar version, but any dried cranberries will add that essential fruity tang.
Homemade Honey Balsamic Dressing Ingredients: The Flavorful Finale
A homemade dressing elevates this salad from good to extraordinary. This honey balsamic dressing is easy to whisk together and brings all the flavors into perfect harmony:
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: As the base of the dressing, a good quality extra virgin olive oil is key for a rich, fruity flavor. If you have a premium olive oil on hand, this is the perfect opportunity to use it.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Opt for a good aged balsamic vinegar if possible. The longer it’s aged, the more complex, sweet, and less acidic its flavor will be, providing a truly superior dressing.
- Honey: This natural sweetener balances the acidity of the balsamic vinegar and smooths out the dressing’s profile. You can adjust the amount of honey to suit your desired level of sweetness. For a vegan version, maple syrup is an excellent alternative.
- Dijon Mustard: A critical ingredient for any emulsified vinaigrette, Dijon mustard acts as a binder, helping the oil and vinegar combine into a smooth, creamy dressing. It also adds a subtle tangy, spicy note that enhances the overall flavor. A classic Dijon mustard works perfectly.
- Sea Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these staples bring out the best in all the ingredients. Start with about 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper and up to 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt, then adjust to your personal taste preference. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
Elevate Your Salad: Exciting Possible Add-Ins
While this mandarin salad is absolutely perfect as is, it’s also wonderfully adaptable. Don’t hesitate to get creative and customize it with additional ingredients to suit your taste or to turn it into a more substantial meal. Here are some of our favorite optional add-ins that we love to toss in from time to time:
- Chopped Bacon: Crispy, salty bacon pieces, especially if still warm, add an irresistible smoky flavor and crunch.
- Fresh Berries: Blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries can enhance the fruity notes and add another layer of sweetness and color.
- Poppy Seeds: A sprinkle of poppy seeds adds a delicate texture and a subtle, nutty flavor to the dressing or directly into the salad.
- Chickpeas: For added protein and fiber, a handful of rinsed and drained chickpeas makes this salad more filling and vegetarian-friendly.
- Croutons: Crunchy croutons are always a welcome addition. Try making your own easy sourdough croutons for an extra special touch.
- Sesame Sticks: These slender, savory sticks deliver a fantastic, unique crunch and a subtle umami flavor.
- Sliced Boiled Eggs: Hard-boiled eggs, sliced or chopped, add a creamy texture and a boost of protein, making the salad more satisfying.
- Grilled Chicken or Steak: For a complete and hearty meal, top your salad with slices of perfectly grilled chicken or steak. Our Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken is particularly delicious sliced over this salad.
- Salmon: Flaked or grilled salmon adds healthy omega-3s and a delicate flavor. Our Citrus Maple Glazed Salmon is a fantastic choice that complements the mandarin oranges.
- Cubed Avocado: Creamy avocado adds a luxurious texture, healthy fats, and a mild, buttery flavor.
- Sliced Cucumbers: For an extra layer of crispness and hydration, add thinly sliced cucumbers.
How To Make It: Simple Steps to a Sensational Salad
Creating this Spinach Mandarin Salad is a breeze, making it accessible for even novice cooks. Follow these straightforward steps to assemble your vibrant dish:
- Toast the Almonds (Optional, but Recommended): Toasting almonds significantly enhances their nutty flavor and creates a more satisfying crunch. You have two easy methods:
- Stovetop: Place the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently for about 3-4 minutes until they are lightly browned and fragrant. Watch them carefully, as they can burn quickly.
- Oven: Spread the almonds in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 4-6 minutes, or until they turn golden and smell toasty. Once toasted, remove them from the heat and allow them to cool completely. This prevents them from becoming soggy when added to the salad.
- Assemble the Salad Base: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the baby spinach, drained mandarin oranges, thinly sliced red onion, goat cheese crumbles, toasted sliced almonds, and dried cranberries. Toss lightly to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Prepare the Honey Balsamic Dressing: In a separate small bowl or a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine all the dressing ingredients: extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk vigorously or shake well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the dressing is smooth and emulsified. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or honey to achieve your desired flavor balance. If the dressing seems too thick, you can add a tiny splash of water (about 1 teaspoon at a time) to thin it to your preferred consistency.
- Dress and Serve: Just before serving, pour approximately half of the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Gently toss until the greens and other components are lightly coated. You can add more dressing if desired, but starting with half prevents the salad from becoming overdressed. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors and crispest textures. Any leftover salad, undressed, can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, though it is best enjoyed within 2 days for optimal freshness. Store any remaining dressing separately.
Expert Recipe Tips for the Perfect Salad Every Time
To ensure your Spinach Mandarin Salad is always a success, keep these helpful tips in mind:
- Timing is Everything for Dressing: For the absolute best results and to prevent your salad from becoming soggy, always wait to add the dressing until just before you’re ready to serve. If you’re preparing this salad for an event or ahead of time, keep the dressing in a separate container. When it’s time to eat, toss the salad with the dressing about 15-20 minutes beforehand. Alternatively, you can serve the dressing on the side and allow each individual to dress their salad as they please, ensuring maximum freshness and crunch.
- Spinach Stems: To Trim or Not to Trim? Baby spinach typically has tender, edible stems, and there’s generally no need to remove them. They are perfectly fine to eat and add a little extra texture and nutrition. However, if you find the stems from certain brands of baby spinach to be unusually long or a bit fibrous, or if you simply prefer a smoother texture, you are certainly welcome to snip them off. This is purely a matter of personal preference and won’t affect the taste or overall quality of the salad.
- Storing Leftovers: This spinach mandarin salad is at its peak freshness and texture when consumed within the first two days of preparation. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. While it will still be safe to eat for up to 3-4 days, keep in mind that the ingredients, particularly the spinach, may start to soften and become a bit soggy or mushy over time. If you do enjoy it on the third or fourth day, a fresh drizzle of extra dressing can help revitalize its flavor.
Serving Suggestions: Beyond a Side Dish
While this Spinach Mandarin Salad makes an outstanding side, its vibrant flavors and nutritional profile mean it can easily take center stage. Consider these ways to enjoy it:
- Light Lunch: A generous portion of this salad is a perfect light and refreshing lunch, especially on warmer days.
- Brunch Highlight: Serve it alongside quiches, frittatas, or savory pancakes for a bright addition to any brunch spread.
- Potluck Favorite: Its appealing colors and crowd-pleasing flavors make it a guaranteed hit at gatherings. Remember to bring the dressing separately!
- Appetizer Course: Serve smaller portions in individual cups for a chic and fresh starter.
Explore More Delicious Salads: Your Next Favorite Recipe Awaits
If you loved this Spinach Mandarin Salad, you’re in for a treat! Our collection of fresh, flavorful, and easy-to-make salads is brimming with options to satisfy every palate. Discover your next go-to recipe among these fantastic choices:
- Watermelon Feta Salad: A sweet and savory delight perfect for summer.
- Pesto Orzo Salad: A pasta salad bursting with herbaceous pesto flavor.
- Roasted Pear Salad: Elegant and comforting, with a sweet and savory balance.
- Mixed Berry Spring Salad with Strawberry Balsamic Dressing: A vibrant, fruity salad that’s visually stunning and delicious.
- Cucumber Feta Quinoa Salad: A refreshing and protein-packed option, great for meal prep.
- Black Bean + Cauliflower Rice Salad: A hearty, flavorful, and low-carb alternative.
- Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad: A unique and surprisingly delicious salad featuring crisp raw Brussels sprouts.
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Spinach Mandarin Salad with Honey Balsamic Dressing
Lorie Yarro
Print Recipe
10 minutes
7 minutes
20 minutes
4
Ingredients
- 10 oz baby spinach
- 1 can mandarin oranges (approx. 15 oz), drained, or 4 fresh mandarins, peeled and sectioned
- 1/4 c red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ c goat cheese crumbles
- ½ c sliced almonds, lightly toasted
- ½ c dried cranberries
Dressing Ingredients:
- 1/2 c extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 c balsamic vinegar (preferably aged)
- 1-2 T honey (adjust to taste; use maple syrup for vegan)
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the sliced almonds on a baking sheet and toast for about 4-6 minutes, or until they are lightly browned and fragrant. Remove from oven and let cool completely. Alternatively, toast on the stovetop over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly.
-
In a large bowl, combine the baby spinach, drained mandarin oranges, thinly sliced red onion, goat cheese crumbles, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries. In a separate small bowl or jar, whisk together all dressing ingredients (olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper) until smooth and emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. If the dressing is too thick, add a small amount of water (1 tsp at a time) to thin it to your preferred consistency.
-
Just before serving, pour about half of the dressing over the salad. Toss gently to coat all ingredients. Add more dressing if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, with best results if eaten within 2 days. Keep undressed salad and dressing separate if prepping in advance.
Notes
There is no need to remove the baby spinach stems, but you certainly can. Some people are turned off by the stems of baby spinach, especially if they are longer. While they are totally edible and tender, you are welcome to remove them if desired for a smoother texture.
Store your salad for up to 3-4 days. This spinach mandarin salad is best eaten within the first two days for optimal texture. It will still be safe to eat up to 4 days, but the ingredients may become a bit soggy or mushy. If serving leftovers, toss in some extra dressing to refresh it.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 23g,
Protein: 7g,
Fat: 27g,
Saturated Fat: 6g,
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 17g,
Trans Fat: 0.002g,
Cholesterol: 9mg,
Sodium: 132mg,
Potassium: 452mg,
Fiber: 4g,
Sugar: 18g,
Vitamin A: 5557IU,
Vitamin C: 37mg,
Calcium: 111mg,
Iron: 2mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.
Did you enjoy this recipe? Have a question?Leave a comment below and share your thoughts!
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