When it comes to easy lunches that actually satisfy, this Mandarin Lunchbox Salad is a total win. It’s bursting with vibrant vegetables, juicy mandarin oranges, crunchy nuts, and protein-packed quinoa. Tossed in a zesty ginger-sesame dressing, every bite hits the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just need a quick fix for those midday hunger pangs, this salad will be your new go-to.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
Base Salad
-
1½ cups quinoa (uncooked)
-
1 bag (16 oz) coleslaw mix
-
1 red bell pepper, diced
-
4 mandarin oranges, peeled and segmented
-
5 green onions, sliced
-
½ cup cashews, roughly chopped
-
¼ cup sliced almonds
Dressing
-
¼ cup olive oil
-
¼ cup rice vinegar
-
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
-
1–2 tablespoons honey (to taste)
-
2 teaspoons sesame oil
-
1½ tablespoons fresh grated ginger
-
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
-
Cook the Quinoa
Prepare quinoa according to package directions. Allow it to cool to room temperature. -
Mix the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, coleslaw mix (discard any included dressing packet), diced red bell pepper, mandarin slices, green onions, cashews, and almonds. -
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic powder until smooth and fully combined. -
Toss & Chill
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Tips & Variations
-
Make it a Meal – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
-
Crunch Factor – Toss in sunflower seeds or crispy wonton strips for added texture.
-
Meal Prep Friendly – Keeps well for 3–4 days in the fridge, making it perfect for grab-and-go lunches.
This Mandarin Lunchbox Salad is bright, healthy, and bursting with flavor—proof that meal prep doesn’t have to be boring.