This Fresh Orange Strawberry Salad Recipe is light, colorful, and bursting with fresh flavor. Crisp red and green leaf lettuce is topped with juicy mandarin oranges, sweet strawberries, and thinly sliced purple onion, then tossed with a simple homemade red wine vinaigrette.
Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, holiday meals, brunches, or as a refreshing side salad, this easy fruit salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, pasta dishes, and Southern comfort food.
Servings, Prep Time & Cook Time
Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: None
Total Time: 15 minutes
Why You’ll Love This Fresh Orange Strawberry Salad Recipe
- Bright, fresh, and colorful
- Easy homemade vinaigrette
- Perfect balance of sweet and tangy
- Ready in just 15 minutes
- Great for holidays and brunches
- Pairs with almost any main course
Ingredients for Fresh Orange Strawberry Salad
The Salad
Red and green leaf lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces
¼ purple onion, thinly sliced into rings
1 small can mandarin oranges, drained
½ cup fresh strawberries, washed and quartered
The combination of crisp lettuce, juicy citrus, sweet berries, and mild onion creates a refreshing salad that’s full of texture and flavor.
The Seasonings
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 packet stevia
A touch of sweetness balances the acidity of the vinaigrette while enhancing the fruit.
The Homemade Vinaigrette
1 cup olive oil
⅓ cup red wine vinegar
This simple homemade dressing is light, tangy, and lets the fresh produce shine.
Equipment We Love for This Recipe
- Large salad bowl
- Mason jar with lid
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Salad tongs
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Fresh Orange Strawberry Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- Red and green leaf lettuce torn into bite-sized pieces
- ¼ purple onion thinly sliced
- 1 small can mandarin oranges drained
- ½ cup fresh strawberries quartered
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 packet stevia
- 1 cup olive oil
- ⅓ cup red wine vinegar
Instructions
- Place the torn lettuce into a large serving bowl.
- Arrange the sliced onion, mandarin oranges, and strawberries over the lettuce.
- Sprinkle with the salt, pepper, and stevia.
- In a mason jar, combine the olive oil and red wine vinegar. Secure the lid and shake vigorously until well combined.
- Just before serving, drizzle the desired amount of dressing over the salad.
- Toss gently and serve immediately.
How to Make Fresh Orange Strawberry Salad
Start by tearing the red and green leaf lettuce into bite-sized pieces and placing it in a large serving bowl.
Arrange the thinly sliced purple onion, mandarin oranges, and quartered strawberries evenly over the lettuce.
Sprinkle the salad with the salt, black pepper, and stevia.
In a mason jar, combine the olive oil and red wine vinegar. Seal tightly and shake vigorously until the dressing is fully emulsified.
Right before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all of the ingredients.
Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and crisp texture.
What to Serve with Fresh Orange Strawberry Salad
This fresh fruit salad pairs beautifully with:
- Creamy White Pesto Lasagna Recipe
- Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
- Creamy Lemon Parmesan Pasta Recipe
It’s also delicious alongside:
- Grilled salmon
- Lemon herb chicken
- Honey glazed ham
- Roast turkey
Complete the meal with Easy Berry Tiramisu Recipe or Mini Lemon Cheesecake Jars Recipe for a light and refreshing dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store leftover salad and dressing separately in airtight containers. The salad will stay fresh for up to 2 days, while the vinaigrette will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Freezing
This salad is not suitable for freezing.
Reheating
This recipe is served cold and does not require reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh mandarin oranges instead of canned?
Yes! Fresh mandarin oranges or clementines are an excellent substitute and add even more fresh citrus flavor.
Can I substitute another berry?
Absolutely. Blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries all pair beautifully with the oranges and homemade vinaigrette.
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes! The dressing can be prepared several days in advance. Just shake well before serving.
Can I add nuts or cheese?
Definitely. Candied pecans, sliced almonds, feta cheese, or goat cheese all make delicious additions to this salad.
Final Thoughts
This Fresh Orange Strawberry Salad Recipe is a beautiful combination of crisp greens, juicy fruit, and a simple homemade vinaigrette that makes every bite refreshing and flavorful. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday dinner, brunch, or summer cookout, it’s an easy side dish that adds color and freshness to any meal.
If you make this recipe, tag us so we can see. We love seeing how you style your food and bring a little Southern hospitality into your home.
Enjoy!
McKaylee & Michele
MckMich Collective
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