Riviera Salad
A vibrant and crunchy salad featuring fresh greens, sweet strawberries or mandarin oranges, candied pecans, and a tangy poppy seed dressing, perfect for light lunches or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 recipe Candied Pecans
- 1 head Romaine lettuce
- 2 cups strawberry slices or 1 small can Mandarin oranges
- 1 recipe Poppy Seed Dressing ⓘ
Instructions
- Layer romaine lettuce, fruit slices or mandarin oranges, and candied pecans in a serving bowl.
- Pour the poppy seed dressing on top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding crumbled feta cheese or sliced avocados for creaminess. If you prefer a vegan version, substitute the poppy seed dressing with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of maple syrup. For added crunch, you can also toss in some sunflower seeds or swap the pecans for walnuts.
Serving Suggestions
This Riviera Salad makes a refreshing side dish for grilled chicken or fish. It pairs beautifully with Crumbly Peach Pie for a light and satisfying meal. For a complete dinner, serve alongside a warm bowl of soup or as part of a buffet spread for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. When ready to serve, add the dressing just before enjoying to maintain freshness and crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Riviera Salad contains roughly 25 calories, with 0g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 prepare the salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance. Chop the romaine and slice the strawberries or oranges a few hours before serving. However, it's best to assemble the salad and add the dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.
What other fruits can I use in this salad?
You can substitute the strawberries or mandarin oranges with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even diced apples. Seasonal fruits work wonderfully, so feel free to experiment based on what's available.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this salad can easily be made vegan by using a plant-based poppy seed dressing or a simple olive oil and vinegar dressing. Just ensure the candied pecans are made without any dairy ingredients.
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).