Cindy'S Tropical Spinach Salad
A vibrant, refreshing tropical spinach salad combining sweet mandarin oranges, crunchy toasted almonds, and fresh greens, perfect for light lunches or summer gatherings with a hint of citrus flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine torn spinach, torn romaine, torn leaf lettuce, drained mandarin oranges, and thinly sliced purple onion in a large bowl.
- Toss the salad with cooked salad dressing and toasted sliced almonds just before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a delightful twist, consider adding diced avocado or sliced strawberries for extra flavor and nutrition. If you want to make this dish vegan, swap the cooked salad dressing for a homemade vinaigrette. Toasting the almonds in a dry skillet enhances their flavor, so don't skip that step!
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. Serve alongside crusty bread or with a side of Squeeky Slaw for a refreshing summer feast. It's also a perfect side dish for barbecues or picnics.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain the salad's crispness, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. Avoid reheating as salads are best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cindy'S Tropical Spinach Salad contains roughly 158 calories, with 5g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value) and protein (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use other greens instead of spinach and romaine?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute kale, arugula, or mixed salad greens based on your preference. Just ensure they are fresh for the best texture and flavor.
What can I use instead of mandarin oranges?
You can substitute mandarin oranges with other fruits like diced apples, pears, or even fresh berries for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the fruits are sweet and juicy.
Is there a way to make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the greens and toppings separately a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to prevent sogginess.
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).