Orange Pecan Salad
A refreshing citrus and pineapple salad with coconut, sweetened cream cheese, and crunchy pecans, perfect for light desserts or summer gatherings, offering a delightful mix of flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar and cream cheese together until smooth.
- Stir in drained mandarin oranges, drained pineapple, and coconut.
- Spread the mixture in a glass dish.
- Sprinkle halved or chopped pecans on top.
- Chill for 1 to 2 hours before serving for best results.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whipped cream or sour cream in place of some cream cheese. If you want a tropical twist, add shredded mango or use fresh pineapple instead of canned. For a nut-free version, substitute sunflower seeds for the pecans. If you prefer a sweeter dish, use a bit more sugar or add a drizzle of honey.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is a delightful addition to a brunch spread or as a refreshing side dish for a summer barbecue. It pairs beautifully with Spinach And Potato Gratin, adding color and flavor contrast. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or enjoy it as a light dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Orange Pecan Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the dish. Avoid freezing, as the cream cheese and fruit may separate upon thawing. Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Pecan Salad contains roughly 584 calories, with 9g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 9g 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 fresh oranges instead of canned mandarin oranges?
Yes, you can use fresh oranges! Just peel and segment them, and adjust the sweetness to your taste since fresh oranges may be less sweet than canned. This will add a nice, vibrant flavor to the salad.
What if I don't have pecans?
If you don't have pecans, you can easily substitute with walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Each will add a different texture and flavor, enhancing the overall dish.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. Chilling it for a couple of hours allows the flavors to develop and makes for an even tastier dish.
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).