This mandarin orange salad is the kind of dish that has you wanting seconds from the first bite. My aunt is the one who first made it for us at a family gathering, and she graciously shared the recipe she had gotten from a friend. Since then, this festive salad has become one of my go-to sides for brunch or spring celebrations.
Shared recipes are some of my favorites, because I know a recipe that has been passed along for years between family and friends is usually going to be a really good one. Recipes that travel like this have a special life of their own. I have changed the vinaigrette slightly over the years by adding champagne vinegar and my own herbs. So, I have added my own stamp to the recipe, but I still think of my aunt and my mom every time I make it. Recipes like this salad are an important way to remember the people we love and the meals we've shared.
This salad is a classic in our house and it finds its way on the menu for many special occasions. Those canned mandarin oranges may be a bit retro, but they make this salad delicious and easy to assemble. I love the look of this colorful orange salad for Easter. Since it's a showy salad, I usually serve it on a large platter or in shallow bowl because it brightens any buffet.
Sometimes when you're entertaining or putting a holiday meal together you need a simple side. This salad dressing is something you can make ahead and have in your fridge. The almonds can also be made the day before and stored in a airtight container. I think the flavors of the oranges and almonds pair well with quiche, ham or any breakfast casserole. So now in keeping my family's tradition, I am sharing this recipe with you.
- Amy Appling of Hinsdale is the paper's food columnist. Readers can email her at [email protected].
