Blue Cheese, Avocado, and Mandarin Orange Salad (22 Minutes)

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This mixed green salad effortlessly combines creamy avocado slices, tangy blue cheese, crunchy walnuts, and sweet mandarin oranges, creating a delightful blend of flavors.

We’ll add some Granny Smith apples around the edge of the bowl to add a crisp, tart element and a homemade vinaigrette for a zingy punch.

Whether you’re looking for a quick and light meal option or hosting a crowd, this dish is a healthy addition to any meal.

  • Prep Time: 22 minutes
  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
For the salad:
  • 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine)
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
  • 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
  • 1 Granny Smith apple, thinly sliced
For the dressing:
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vinaigrette (5 minutes): In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard until well combined. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Set aside.
  2. Assemble the salad (10 minutes): In a large salad bowl, arrange the mixed greens as the base. Evenly distribute the sliced avocado, crumbled blue cheese, chopped walnuts, and mandarin oranges over the greens.
  3. Arrange the apples (5 minutes): Carefully place the thinly sliced Granny Smith apples around the edge of the salad bowl, creating a circular border.
  4. Serve (2 minutes): Drizzle the homemade vinaigrette over the salad just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and crisp.

Notes

This mixed green salad is not only nutritious but also a feast for the eyes, making it an ideal choice for entertaining guests or enjoying a special meal at home.

For best results, use ripe but firm avocado and freshly squeezed mandarin oranges if available.

The homemade vinaigrette can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 27g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Pair this with...

Herbed Garlic Bread

Grab a fresh baguette or loaf of Italian bread and slice it as desired. In a bowl, mix together softened unsalted butter, finely minced garlic (the more, the merrier, but about 3-4 cloves should do), a good pinch of salt, and chopped fresh herbs. Parsley and basil are classics, but don't hesitate to throw in some oregano or rosemary if you're feeling adventurous. Spread this aromatic butter mix generously over the cut sides of your bread. Pop it under the broiler in your oven for about 2-4 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the butter is bubbling and fragrant. Keep a close eye on it, as broiling can quickly go from perfectly toasted to charred! Once done, slice it up and serve.

Very Berry Smoothie

First, grab a handful of fresh or frozen strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries. Toss them all into your blender. To make it creamy and dreamy, add a cup of yogurt or almond milk. Need a touch of sweetness? Drizzle in a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup, adjusting to your preference. If you're aiming for an extra boost, consider adding a spoonful of chia seeds or flaxseeds for added nutrients and texture. Whizz everything together until you get a smooth, velvety blend. Pour it out into a chilled glass. Enjoy!

For Tomorrow's Dinner

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