California Avocado Mandarin Salad

California Avocado Mandarin Salad Recipe - Delicious and Nutritious

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This California Avocado Mandarin Salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish that combines the creamy texture of ripe avocados with the sweet and tangy flavors of mandarin oranges. Packed with protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the avocados, this salad is not only delicious but also nutritious.

History

The California Avocado Mandarin Salad is a modern twist on the classic chicken salad. The combination of avocados and mandarin oranges adds a unique flavor profile to the traditional salad, making it a popular choice for those looking for a light and refreshing meal.

Ingredients

1 9-10 oz (283 g) package of mixed salad greens
1 15 oz (425 g) can of well-drained mandarin oranges
1 6 oz (170 g) package of cooked and sliced chicken breast
2 thin slices of red onion, halved and sliced into crescents
0.25 cup of toasted pecans
0.5 cup of prepared bottled light Italian or balsamic vinaigrette dressing
2 ripe california avocados, seeded, peeled, and cut into chunks

How to prepare

In a large salad bowl, combine salad greens, mandarin oranges, chicken, onions, and pecans.
In a small bowl, combine dressing and 0.5 cup of avocado cubes.
Mash and blend the avocado cubes into the dressing.
Add the remaining avocado cubes and dressing to the salad.
Toss the salad and serve.

Variations

Swap out the chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Add some crumbled feta or goat cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Use a different type of nut, such as walnuts or almonds, in place of the pecans.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the mandarin oranges well to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.

- Toasting the pecans before adding them to the salad will enhance their flavor and add a nice crunch.

- Mash some of the avocado cubes into the dressing to create a creamy texture that coats the salad evenly.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served as a light lunch or dinner on its own, or as a side dish to accompany grilled meats or seafood.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making this salad is to ensure that all the ingredients are well-drained and properly prepared before combining them in the salad bowl. Toss the salad gently to avoid mashing the avocado chunks.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have mandarin oranges, you can use fresh orange segments or canned pineapple as a substitute. You can also use a different type of salad dressing if you prefer.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Combine everything just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this salad in a large, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the avocados and mandarin oranges. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a sparkling water infused with fresh citrus slices.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The avocado may brown slightly, but the flavors will still be delicious. Do not freeze this salad, as the texture of the avocados will change.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this California Avocado Mandarin Salad contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

This salad is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet. Each serving contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The main source of fat in this salad comes from the healthy monounsaturated fats found in avocados. Each serving contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

The chicken in this salad provides a good source of protein, with each serving containing approximately 25 grams.

Vitamins and minerals

Avocados are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin E, vitamin C, and potassium. The mandarin oranges also provide a good dose of vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts (pecans) and may contain allergens such as gluten (in the dressing) and soy (in the chicken). Be sure to check the labels of your ingredients if you have any allergies.

Summary

Overall, this salad is a well-balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This California Avocado Mandarin Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that is sure to please your taste buds. With a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals, this salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. Enjoy it as a light meal or side dish for a refreshing and satisfying dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for California Avocado Mandarin Salad. It was a warm summer day, and I was browsing through a quaint little cookbook shop in my neighborhood. As I flipped through the pages, a bright and colorful photo caught my eye. It was a picture of a refreshing salad bursting with vibrant colors and flavors - California Avocado Mandarin Salad.

I quickly scanned the ingredients and instructions, and my mouth began to water just thinking about the combination of creamy avocado, sweet mandarin oranges, and crunchy almonds. I knew I had to try this recipe for myself.

I purchased the cookbook and hurried home to gather the ingredients. As I chopped, sliced, and mixed, the kitchen filled with the fresh scents of citrus and herbs. I couldn't resist sneaking a taste before serving the salad to my family, and it was love at first bite.

From that moment on, California Avocado Mandarin Salad became a staple in my culinary repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks with friends, and even just as a simple and satisfying lunch for myself.

But as much as I loved the recipe, I knew there was room for improvement. So, I began experimenting with different variations and additions to make the salad truly my own. I added a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy kick, sprinkled in some feta cheese for a creamy contrast, and even threw in some grilled chicken for a heartier meal.

Over the years, I shared my recipe with friends and family, who all raved about its deliciousness. Some even asked me to write it down for them so they could recreate it in their own kitchens. And so, I typed up the recipe on a vintage recipe card, complete with detailed instructions and a personal note from me.

As time went on, I continued to perfect my California Avocado Mandarin Salad, always finding new ways to elevate its flavors and textures. I experimented with different types of avocados, tried out different herbs and spices, and even swapped out the mandarin oranges for other fruits like strawberries or blueberries.

But no matter how many variations I tried, the original recipe always held a special place in my heart. It was the first recipe that truly inspired me to get creative in the kitchen, and it will always be a reminder of that warm summer day when I stumbled upon its bright and colorful photo.

Now, as I sit at my kitchen table, surrounded by cookbooks and memories of meals past, I can't help but smile as I think about my beloved California Avocado Mandarin Salad. It may have started as a simple recipe in a cookbook shop, but it has since become a cherished tradition in my family - a tradition that I hope to pass down to future generations, along with the stories of how it came to be.