Fruit And Nut Tossed Salad
A vibrant fruit and nut tossed salad combining fresh greens, sweet grapes, tangy oranges, crunchy almonds, and creamy avocado, perfect for light lunches or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine torn spinach, torn romaine lettuce, halved grapes, toasted slivered almonds, and drained mandarin oranges.
- In a screw top jar, combine oil, vinegar, sugar, and salt; shake well to make the dressing.
- Just before serving, toss some of the dressing with the salad.
- Garnish the salad with sliced avocado.
- Serve the remaining dressing on the side.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in other nuts like walnuts or pecans instead of almonds. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, adjust the sugar to taste. You can also opt for a balsamic vinegar for a richer flavor profile. If you don't have fresh spinach, kale makes a great substitute. Experiment with different fruits like apple slices or berries for variety.
Serving Suggestions
This Fruit And Nut Tossed Salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a great choice for a light lunch or dinner. Serve it alongside a hearty dish like Perfect Roast Beef(Well Done Ends; Rare Center) for a balanced meal. For a vegetarian option, add chickpeas or tofu to enhance the protein content.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To keep the avocado from browning, store it separately and add it just before serving. The dressing can be stored in the jar for up to a week, so feel free to make extra for future salads.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit And Nut Tossed Salad contains roughly 409 calories, with 3g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 882mg per serving (38% 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients in advance, but it's best to add the dressing and avocado just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent browning. Store components in separate containers for optimal taste.
What other fruits can I use in this salad?
Feel free to mix in seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or diced apples for a different flavor profile. Each will bring its unique sweetness and texture, making the salad even more delightful.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this salad can easily be made vegan by ensuring the dressing is plant-based. Use a vegan-friendly oil and consider substituting honey with agave syrup in the dressing. This way, it aligns perfectly with vegan recipes.
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).