Get ready to transform your boring salad routine with this sensational Romaine Salad with Mandarins and Asian Dressing! In just 15 minutes, you'll create a culinary masterpiece that combines the crisp freshness of romaine lettuce, the sweet burst of mandarin oranges, and an irresistible Asian-inspired dressing that will make your taste buds dance. This isn't just a salad; it's a flavor explosion that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Instructions
- Wash the romaine lettuce thoroughly under cool running water, then pat dry with clean paper towels or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place in a large serving bowl.
- Drain the mandarin oranges completely, removing any excess syrup, and set aside.
- In a small mixing bowl, prepare the Asian dressing by whisking together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved and ingredients are well combined.
- Toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning, until they become golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Slice the green onions thinly, using both white and green parts.
- Add the drained mandarin oranges to the chopped romaine lettuce.
- Sprinkle the toasted almonds and sliced green onions over the salad.
- Drizzle the prepared Asian dressing over the salad just before serving, tossing gently to ensure even coating.
- Serve immediately to maintain the crisp texture of the lettuce and the crunch of the almonds.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, toast the almonds just before serving to preserve their crunch and nutty aroma.
- Use fresh, crisp romaine lettuce and dry it thoroughly to prevent a soggy salad.
- Add the dressing right before serving to maintain the lettuce's crisp texture.
- For extra depth, consider using toasted sesame seeds as an alternative or additional topping.
- If you want to make the salad more substantial, add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Prepare the dressing ahead of time and store in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld together.
- Choose mandarin oranges packed in light syrup or water for a healthier option.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
