This vibrant Mandarin Hazelnut Salad is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, perfect for adding a burst of freshness to any meal. Crisp mixed greens serve as the base, providing a hearty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the juicy sweetness of drained mandarin orange segments. Toasted hazelnuts add a rich, nutty depth, while chopped celery and fresh green onions contribute a sharp, aromatic bite. This dish is not only visually appealing with its bright orange and green hues but also incredibly simple to prepare. It makes an excellent light lunch, a refreshing side dish for grilled meats, or a healthy addition to a picnic spread. The natural sweetness of the fruit balances the savory elements, creating a harmonious flavor profile that is both satisfying and energizing.
Mandarin Hazelnut Salad
Description
This vibrant Mandarin Hazelnut Salad is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, perfect for adding a burst of freshness to any meal. Crisp mixed greens serve as the base, providing a hearty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the juicy sweetness of drained mandarin orange segments. Toasted hazelnuts add a rich, nutty depth, while chopped celery and fresh green onions contribute a sharp, aromatic bite. This dish is not only visually appealing with its bright orange and green hues but also incredibly simple to prepare. It makes an excellent light lunch, a refreshing side dish for grilled meats, or a healthy addition to a picnic spread. The natural sweetness of the fruit balances the savory elements, creating a harmonious flavor profile that is both satisfying and energizing.Ingredients
Directions
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Toast the hazelnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned, then set aside to cool.
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Wash and dry the mixed greens thoroughly, then tear or chop them into bite-sized pieces if necessary.
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In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, chopped celery, and torn green onions.
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Add the drained mandarin orange segments to the bowl.
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Scatter the toasted hazelnuts over the top of the salad.
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Toss gently with your preferred dressing just before serving to maintain crispness.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 110.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 1.9g3%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 379.2mg16%
- Total Carbohydrate 17.3g6%
- Dietary Fiber 10.6g43%
- Sugars 1.9g
- Protein 13.9g28%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Toasting the hazelnuts enhances their flavor significantly; keep a close eye on them as they can burn quickly.
For a complete dressing, try a simple sesame-soy vinaigrette or a light citrus vinaigrette to complement the mandarin oranges.
This salad is best served immediately after tossing to keep the greens crisp and the nuts crunchy.
You can substitute the mixed greens with spinach, arugula, or a mesclun mix for different flavor profiles.
