Royal Orange-Walnut Salad
A vibrant and refreshing salad combining sweet oranges, crunchy walnuts, and tender greens, perfect for light lunches or elegant gatherings with a tangy dressing.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the peeled, sectioned, and seeded oranges, torn bibb lettuce, torn spinach, and sliced purple onion in a large bowl.
- Saute walnuts in melted butter until lightly browned.
- Add the toasted walnuts to the lettuce mixture.
- Toss the salad with Sweet and Sour Dressing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more robust flavor, consider adding crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese to the salad. If you prefer a different nut, pecans can be a delightful substitute for walnuts. Remember to toss the salad gently to maintain the texture of the greens. This salad pairs beautifully with Honey-Nut Muffins for a delightful brunch option.
Serving Suggestions
This salad makes a refreshing side dish for grilled chicken or fish. For a light lunch, serve it with crusty bread and a fruit-based dessert like Confectioners Sugar Pound Cake. It also complements a variety of vegetarian recipes, enhancing a meatless meal with its vibrant flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent the greens from wilting, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. If reheating, gently warm the walnuts in a skillet to refresh their flavor before adding to the salad again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Royal Orange-Walnut Salad contains roughly 73 calories, with 3g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron.
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 canned oranges instead of fresh ones?
While fresh oranges provide the best flavor and texture, canned oranges can be used in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
What dressing is best for this salad?
A Sweet and Sour Dressing works perfectly, but you can also try a citrus vinaigrette or a light balsamic dressing to enhance the salad's flavors. Experiment to find your favorite!
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the individual ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. Combine them just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp, ensuring the best texture for your salad.
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).