Cucumber, Orange Salad
A refreshing and light salad combining crisp cucumber and sweet mandarin oranges, dressed in creamy French dressing and topped with optional poppy seed pepper, perfect for a quick, cooling snack or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cucumber, mandarin orange sections, and dressing in a bowl.
- Cover and chill for 8 minutes.
- Sprinkle with poppy seed pepper, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a refreshing twist, consider adding diced avocado or shredded carrots to the salad. If you prefer a lighter dressing, substitute the creamy French or cucumber salad dressing with a yogurt-based dressing. Chilling the salad longer enhances the flavors, so feel free to prepare it ahead of time. This salad makes a great side for grilled chicken or pairs beautifully with Evelyn'S Slaw.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this vibrant cucumber and orange salad as a light lunch or a side dish at a summer barbecue. It pairs nicely with grilled fish or chicken, and can even complement a refreshing drink like Glinda'S Sun Tea. For added crunch, consider topping it with toasted nuts or seeds just before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may lose some crispness over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If you need to rehydrate the salad slightly before serving, a splash of fresh orange juice can help restore some moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber, Orange Salad contains roughly 7 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value).
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 fresh oranges instead of canned mandarin oranges?
Absolutely! Fresh oranges can add a delightful flavor and texture to the salad. Simply peel and segment the oranges, removing any seeds, and mix them in as you would the canned mandarin sections. This substitution makes the dish even fresher and is perfect for those who prefer whole ingredients.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
To make this salad vegan, simply swap out the creamy dressing for a vegan alternative, such as a tahini-based dressing or a simple olive oil and vinegar mix. This way, you can enjoy a delicious and fresh salad that fits within vegan recipes while still maintaining its vibrant flavors.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To turn this salad into a more substantial meal, consider adding protein sources like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu. These additions will not only make the dish more filling but also enhance its nutritional profile. Pairing it with a side of quinoa or brown rice can also elevate it to a complete meal.
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).