Emily'S Salad
A creamy citrus salad with Mandarin oranges, sweetened condensed milk, and a buttery crust, perfect as a light dessert or a sweet side dish for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the Mandarin oranges well, then mix them in the sweetened condensed milk and frozen orange juice.
- Fold in Cool Whip until combined.
- Pour the mixture into the crushed Ritz cracker crust.
- Refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat Ritz crackers or a low-fat whipped topping. You can also replace the Mandarin oranges with fresh oranges for a vibrant twist. If you prefer more texture, add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. Make sure to drain the Mandarin oranges well to prevent excess moisture in the salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Emily's Salad as a refreshing dessert after a hearty meal, or as a light snack during warm weather. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or spicy dishes. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves or serve alongside Dad's Favorite Sugar Cookies for a delightful treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad is best enjoyed cold, so there's no need to reheat it. If the crust becomes soggy over time, consider serving it in individual cups for freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Emily'S Salad contains roughly 2123 calories, with 45g protein, 324g carbohydrates, and 76g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (120% of the Daily Value), calcium (115% of the Daily Value), and protein (89% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 777mg per serving (34% 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?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh oranges! Just make sure to peel and segment them properly. Fresh oranges will add a bright flavor and a bit more texture to the salad.
How can I make this salad ahead of time?
This salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just follow the recipe, assemble it, and store it in the fridge. The flavors will meld nicely overnight, making it even more delicious.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a plant-based alternative like coconut condensed milk, and choose a vegan whipped topping. Ensure all other ingredients are dairy-free.
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).