Sunshine Salad: A Bright, Fresh Bowl of Feel-Good Flavor
Sunshine Salad lives up to its name in every possible way. Bursting with vibrant colors, juicy fruits, and refreshing textures, this salad brings a sense of warmth and cheer to the table. Crisp greens paired with sweet citrus, tropical fruit, and a light, tangy dressing create a dish that feels both energizing and satisfying.
Perfect for spring lunches, summer gatherings, or whenever a fresh reset is needed, Sunshine Salad offers a beautiful balance of sweet and savory flavors. Each bite delivers brightness, crunch, and natural sweetness without feeling heavy. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed as a light meal, this salad adds a pop of sunshine to any plate and instantly lifts the mood.
Ingredients Needed
Fresh, colorful ingredients are the heart of Sunshine Salad. Below is a table with the main ingredients and their approximate calorie counts.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Mixed salad greens | 4 cups | 40 |
| Fresh oranges (peeled, sliced) | 2 medium | 120 |
| Pineapple chunks | 1 cup | 82 |
| Mango (diced) | 1 cup | 99 |
| Strawberries (sliced) | 1 cup | 50 |
| Red onion (thinly sliced) | 1/4 cup | 15 |
| Slivered almonds | 1/4 cup | 165 |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | 240 |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 tbsp | 8 |
| Honey | 1 tbsp | 64 |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | 0 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the fruit
Peel and slice the oranges, dice the mango, cut the pineapple into bite-sized chunks, and slice the strawberries. Set aside. - Build the salad base
Place mixed salad greens in a large serving bowl. Add the sliced red onion evenly over the greens. - Add the fruit
Arrange the prepared fruits over the salad for a colorful, visually appealing presentation. - Make the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined. - Assemble the salad
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. - Finish with crunch
Sprinkle slivered almonds on top for added texture and nutty flavor.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas turn this salad into a filling meal.
- Switch the fruit: Blueberries, kiwi, grapes, or peaches work beautifully.
- Make it vegan: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Extra creaminess: Crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a savory contrast.
- Boost flavor: A splash of orange juice or a pinch of ginger in the dressing enhances brightness.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320–350 |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 7 g |
| Vitamin C | High |
Serving Suggestions
Serve Sunshine Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats, seafood, or sandwiches. It also works beautifully as a light brunch option or a colorful addition to potlucks and picnics. For an elegant touch, garnish with fresh mint or basil just before serving.
Sunshine Salad: A Bright, Fresh Bowl of Feel-Good Flavor
Course: Recipes4
servings15
minutes00
minutes320-350
kcalIngredients
4 cups mixed salad greens
2 fresh oranges, peeled and sliced
1 cup pineapple chunks
1 cup mango, diced
1 cup strawberries, sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup slivered almonds
For the Dressing:
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp honey
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Place mixed salad greens in a large serving bowl.
- Arrange oranges, pineapple, mango, and strawberries evenly over the greens.
- Sprinkle sliced red onion on top.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Drizzle dressing over the salad just before serving.
- Toss gently and finish with slivered almonds. Serve immediately.
- Notes
Recipe Video
Notes
- For the best flavor and presentation, use ripe, fresh fruits and add the dressing just before serving to keep the greens crisp. This salad is naturally flexible, so feel free to swap in seasonal fruits or add protein for a more filling meal.
FAQs
1. Can Sunshine Salad be made ahead of time?
Yes, Sunshine Salad can be prepped ahead. Chop the fruits and greens separately and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Add the dressing and nuts just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
2. How long does Sunshine Salad stay fresh?
When stored properly without dressing, Sunshine Salad stays fresh for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Once dressed, it’s best enjoyed within a few hours.
3. Can I use frozen fruit in Sunshine Salad?
Fresh fruit is recommended for the best texture and flavor. Frozen fruit tends to release extra moisture when thawed, which can make the salad watery.
4. Is Sunshine Salad healthy?
Yes! Sunshine Salad is packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants from fresh fruits and greens. It’s naturally low in calories and perfect for a light, nourishing meal.
5. What protein pairs well with Sunshine Salad?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, or chickpeas pair beautifully and turn Sunshine Salad into a filling main course.
Conclusion
Sunshine Salad is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of freshness, color, and natural flavor. Sweet fruits, crisp greens, and a light citrus dressing come together to create a salad that feels joyful and energizing. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, this recipe is perfect for warm days, special gatherings, or anytime a bright, wholesome meal is on the menu.
