Mandarin-Berry Salad

Magazine contest $200.00 Prize Winner for the "Spring Salads" category, April 2001. This was submitted by Maureen Scully, Grand Rapids, Michigan.

• Ready In: 15 mins
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 6  cups  mixed salad greens, torn
• 1  cup fresh strawberries, hulled, quartered
• 1⁄2 cup green onion, diced
• 1⁄2 cup  rice noodles, canned
• 1⁄4 cup  almonds, sliced and toasted
• 1 (11 ounce) can mandarin orange sections, drained
• 1⁄4 cup flaked coconut
• 2  teaspoons honey
• 2  teaspoons  salad oil
• 2  teaspoons  balsamic vinegar
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄4 teaspoon pepper
• 2  ounces  soft fresh goat cheese, crumbled

Directions

1. In a large bowl combine greens, strawberries, onions, noodles, and almonds; set aside.
2. In a food processor bowl or blender container combine 1/2 cup of the oranges, coconut, honey oil, vinegar, ginger, salt, and pepper and blend until combined.
3. Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat.
4. Top with remaining oranges and the cheese.