Broccoli And Mandarin Orange Salad
A vibrant and refreshing salad combining sweet mandarin oranges, crunchy broccoli, and nutty almonds, all coated with tangy Marzetti's Wilde Raspberry dressing. Perfect as a light side dish for pork or steak, it offers a healthy and flavorful option for any meal, especially during warmer months.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the mandarin oranges from the cans.
- Wash, drain, and break the broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the mandarin oranges, broccoli, raisins, and almonds.
- Pour Marzetti's Wilde Raspberry dressing over the mixture.
- Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating some chopped fresh mint or parsley into the salad. If you don't have almonds, walnuts or pecans make great substitutes. You can also use fresh oranges instead of canned mandarin oranges for a zestier taste. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of raisins based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a light meal. Serve it alongside a quinoa dish for a complete vegetarian option. You can also use it as a vibrant side at potlucks or picnics, complementing items like sandwiches or wraps. For a unique twist, try it with a scoop of Apricot Sherbet for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The broccoli may become slightly limp, but the flavors will still meld nicely. To refresh the salad before serving, consider adding a splash of dressing and tossing gently to combine.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli And Mandarin Orange Salad contains roughly 5 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance, but it's best to wait to add the dressing until just before serving to keep the broccoli crisp. If you must dress it early, consider using less dressing to prevent sogginess.
Is this salad suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this salad is entirely plant-based and fits well within vegan recipes. Just ensure that the dressing you use is also vegan-friendly, as some dressings may contain dairy or other animal products.
What can I substitute for raisins?
If you prefer a different dried fruit, try using dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots for a sweet and tart contrast. For a healthier option, you can even omit the dried fruit altogether or replace it with fresh berries.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).