Hazelnut Free Spinach Mandarin Almond Salad
Bright, refreshing, and packed with color, this spinach salad hits that perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory in every single bite. Juicy mandarin oranges bring a citrusy pop against the tender baby spinach, while dry-roasted almonds add satisfying crunch and a little richness. The homemade dressing is where things really shine — olive oil, fresh orange juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, grated ginger, and a touch of turmeric come together into something that tastes far more complex than the few minutes it takes to whisk up. For anyone navigating tree nut concerns specifically around hazelnuts, this recipe leans confidently on almonds instead, so you get all the nutty texture without the ingredient that so often sneaks into dressings, toppings, and store-bought salad kits. Thinly sliced red onion weaves in a gentle sharpness that keeps the whole bowl from feeling too sweet, and a handful of torn fresh mint at the end lifts everything with an herby finish. Toss it together right before serving and it's an effortless, crowd-pleasing dish that works as a light lunch or a vibrant side at the dinner table.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the salad
- 5 oz baby spinach
- 2 cans (11 oz each) mandarin oranges, drained
- ½ cup dry-roasted almonds, roughly chopped
- ¼ red onion, very thinly sliced
For the dressing
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp honey
- ½ tsp fresh ginger, finely grated
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric
- ¼ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
For serving
- 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves, torn (optional)
Instructions
- 1
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, grated ginger, turmeric, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
- 2
Add the baby spinach, drained mandarin oranges, chopped almonds, and sliced red onion to a large salad bowl.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!