Mandarin Lunchbox Salad
Fresh, vibrant, and packed with colorful ingredients, this Mandarin Lunchbox Salad is a delicious choice for lunch or a light evening meal. Crisp greens are paired with sweet mandarin oranges, fresh vegetables, and crunchy toasted almonds, then finished with a homemade balsamic-Dijon dressing that brings everything together. Quick to prepare and perfect for make-ahead meals, this refreshing salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Mandarin Lunchbox Salad
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mixed salad greens (baby spinach, romaine, or arugula) | 4 cups |
| Mandarin oranges, peeled and separated | 1 cup |
| Red bell pepper, thinly sliced | 1 |
| Cucumber, sliced | 1 |
| Red onion, thinly sliced | 1/4 |
| Cherry tomatoes, halved | 1 cup |
| Toasted sliced almonds | 1/4 cup |
Dressing
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Balsamic vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Honey | 1 teaspoon |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon |
| Kosher salt | To taste |
| Freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
Instructions
Step 1: Build the Salad
Place the mixed greens, mandarin segments, bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, and cherry tomatoes into a large serving bowl. Toss lightly to distribute the ingredients evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Whisk or shake until the dressing is smooth and fully blended.
Step 3: Toss Everything Together
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss until the vegetables and greens are evenly coated.
Step 4: Finish with Almonds
Scatter the toasted almonds over the salad just before serving to add a crisp, nutty crunch.
Step 5: Chill and Enjoy
Serve immediately, or divide into meal prep containers and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors come together before enjoying.
