Strawberry Mandarin Orange Salad with Candied Almonds
A fresh strawberry mandarin orange salad with candied almonds is the perfect summer side dish! Sweet strawberries, mandarin oranges, crunchy candied almonds, and a light homemade dressing.
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 heads Romaine Lettuce (chopped or 3 romaine hearts)
- 1 10.5 ounce can Mandarin Oranges
- 1/2 lb. Strawberries (sliced)
- 3 Green Onions (sliced)
Candied Almonds:
- 1 cup Sliced or Slivered Almonds
- 1/3 cup Sugar
- 1 stalk Celery (optional)
Dressing:
- 1/2 cup Oil
- 2 Tablespoons Vinegar (apple cider or favorite)
- 2 Tablespoons Sugar
- 2 teaspoons Dried Parsley
- 3/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard (optional)
- 2 teaspoons Poppyseeds (optional)
Instructions
Candied Almonds:
- In a nonstick skillet, add the almonds and sugar over medium heat.Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or heat-safe spatula as the sugar begins to melt.The sugar will clump at first, then gradually coat the almonds with a golden, glossy layer.
- Once the almonds are evenly coated and lightly browned, quickly transfer them to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread into a single layer with a spatula and let them cool completely before breaking apart.Tip: Don’t walk away during this step—candied nuts can burn quickly once the sugar melts!
Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the oil, vinegar, sugar, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add in 1 teaspoon of dijon mustard for more tangy flavor. Whisk until the sugar is mostly dissolved and the mixture looks smooth. Taste and adjust: add a bit more vinegar for tang, or a pinch more sugar if you prefer it sweeter.
- Wash and dry the lettuce thoroughly -- excess water will make your salad soggy. Use a salad spinner if possible, then wrap the leaves in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels until you’re ready to assemble.
- Slice the strawberries and green onions just before serving to keep them fresh. In a large salad bowl, layer the lettuce, strawberries, mandarin oranges, and green onions.
- Serve. Just before serving, sprinkle candied almonds over the top. Drizzle with dressing and toss lightly to coat.
Notes
Substitutions and Variations:
Nuts – Swap candied almonds for candied pecans, walnuts, or cashews.
Greens – Instead of romaine lettuce, try mixed spring greens, arugula, or spinach for a different flavor profile.
Fruit – Use blueberries, raspberries, or sliced apples/pears in place of (or in addition to) strawberries. Fresh oranges also pairs beautifully.
Protein Boost – Add grilled chicken to turn this salad into a full meal.
Add cheese – Crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet fruit.
Nutrition
Calories: 375kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 29g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g | Monounsaturated Fat: 18g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 379mg | Potassium: 605mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 13698IU | Vitamin C: 30mg | Calcium: 127mg | Iron: 3mg
