Mandarin Spinach Delight
Fresh spinach tossed with sweet mandarin oranges, crisp green onions, and sliced mushrooms, finished with herb‑garlic dressing—a bright, vibrant salad perfect for quick lunches or light dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and drain the spinach, then place it in a large bowl.
- Add the mandarin oranges, sliced mushrooms, and chopped green onions to the bowl.
- Toss the salad ingredients together with salad servers.
- Chill the mixture and serve with a cup of herb and garlic dressing when ready to eat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a refreshing twist, consider adding sliced strawberries or almonds for extra flavor and texture. If you don't have herb and garlic dressing, a simple vinaigrette can work as a substitute. Be sure to wash the spinach thoroughly to remove any grit, and feel free to swap in arugula for a peppery kick. This salad can also be made vegan by using a plant-based dressing.
Serving Suggestions
This Mandarin Spinach Delight pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. Serve it alongside M.Y.F. Classic Lemonade(Worden United Methodist Church) for a refreshing summer lunch. For a complete spread, consider adding a side of Cantaloupe Waldorf Salad for a sweet contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain the crispness of the spinach, keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve. If the salad becomes soggy, you can add fresh spinach to revive its texture before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mandarin Spinach Delight contains roughly 610 calories, with 17g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (67% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), and iron (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 858mg per serving (37% 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 frozen spinach instead of fresh?
While fresh spinach is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen spinach if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients.
What can I substitute for mandarin oranges?
If you don't have mandarin oranges, you can use fresh orange segments or canned pineapple as a substitute. Both will add a similar sweetness and tropical flavor to the salad.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad can be made ahead of time for meal prep. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat to prevent wilting. It’s a great option for a healthy lunch throughout the week!
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).