Mandarin Lunchbox Salad

Here’s a refreshing, kid- and adult-friendly Mandarin Lunchbox Salad — quick to prep, sweet-savory, and perfect for meal prep or packed lunches.

🥗 Mandarin Lunchbox Salad

🧾 Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

Base Salad

• 2 cups baby spinach or mixed greens

• 1/2 cup shredded carrots

• 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced thin

• 1/4 cup sliced cucumber (optional)

• 1/4 cup chopped celery (for crunch)

• 1/4 cup sliced almonds or sunflower seeds

• 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)

• 1/2 cup canned mandarin oranges, drained (or fresh if available)

Protein add-ons (optional)

• 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast (sliced or shredded)

• 1/2 cup edamame or chickpeas (for a vegetarian version)

Dressing

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar

• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup

• 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard

• Salt & pepper to taste

🥄 Or use a store-bought sesame-ginger, poppy seed, or citrus vinaigrette for a shortcut.

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Assemble the salad:

   • In a large bowl or meal prep container, layer greens, veggies, mandarin oranges, protein (if using), nuts/seeds, and cheese (if using).

2. Make the dressing:

   • Whisk all dressing ingredients in a small bowl or shake in a jar.

3. Pack it:

   • Store dressing separately and drizzle just before eating to keep the salad crisp.

✅ Tips & Variations

• Kid-friendly version: Chop ingredients finely, skip the cheese if picky, and serve with a sweet dressing.

• Add grains: Toss in cooked quinoa, couscous, or brown rice to make it more filling.

• Allergy-friendly: Use pumpkin seeds instead of nuts; dairy-free cheese or skip it altogether.