Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

This Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it perfect for any occasion! Quick to prepare and bursting with vibrant ingredients, this salad not only looks appealing but is also healthy and satisfying. The teriyaki dressing adds a unique twist that elevates the simple pasta salad to a new level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad can be ready in just 15 minutes, making it an excellent choice for those busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Dressing: The addictive teriyaki vinaigrette ties all the ingredients together beautifully, providing a delicious Asian-inspired flavor.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh spinach, nuts, and mandarins, this salad is full of vitamins and minerals.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a side dish or a light main course; it’s suitable for potlucks, picnics, or casual dinners.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out nuts or add your favorite veggies to personalize the salad.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Jar with lid (for dressing)
• Large mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly and efficiently.
• Colander: Helps to drain the pasta quickly while retaining its shape.
• Jar with lid: Perfect for mixing up your teriyaki dressing without making a mess.
• Large mixing bowl: Allows you to toss all your ingredients together easily.

Ingredients

This salad is easy, quick, healthy, and tossed in the most addictive teriyaki vinaigrette dressing!

For the Salad

• 8 ounces bowtie pasta noodles
• 4 cups spinach leaves
• ½ cup craisins
• ⅓ cup pine nuts (or cashews)
• 1 4-ounce can mandarin oranges (drained)
• ¼ cup cilantro leaves (roughly chopped)

For the Dressing

• ⅓ cup teriyaki sauce (the thicker, the better!)
• ⅓ cup rice apple vinegar (may sub apple cider vinegar)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder (if you have it)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• ½ cup oil (such as vegetable oil, canola oil, olive oil)

How to Make Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a jar, combine all dressing ingredients: teriyaki sauce, rice apple vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, sugar, and oil.
2. Cover the jar tightly and shake vigorously until well combined. Chill until ready to use.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, spinach leaves, craisins, nuts, mandarin oranges, and chopped cilantro.
2. Just before serving, pour the chilled dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently to combine all ingredients well.

Enjoy your refreshing Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing!

How to Serve Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

This vibrant salad is not only refreshing but also versatile, making it perfect for various occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Add Grilled Chicken

• Grilling chicken breast adds protein and makes the salad heartier. Simply season the chicken with salt and pepper before grilling.

Serve with a Crusty Bread

• A warm slice of crusty bread or a baguette is perfect for soaking up the delicious teriyaki dressing. It complements the salad’s flavors beautifully.

Pair with a Light Soup

• A light vegetable or miso soup pairs well, balancing the textures and temperatures of the meal. It’s great for a complete lunch or dinner.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Top the salad with extra cilantro or chopped green onions for an added burst of freshness. It elevates the presentation and flavor profile.

How to Perfect Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

To make this salad even more delightful, here are some tips for perfection.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and ripe mandarins enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your salad.
• Customize the nuts: Feel free to swap out pine nuts for cashews or slivered almonds based on your preference.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving lets flavors meld beautifully.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste your teriyaki dressing and adjust sugar levels according to your sweetness preference.

Best Side Dishes for Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

Pairing this salad with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Steamed Edamame: Lightly salted edamame provides healthy protein and pairs well with Asian flavors.
2. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar adds a crisp contrast to the pasta.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli or bell peppers bring out earthy flavors that complement the sweet teriyaki dressing.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs offers a nutty flavor that balances well with the salad.
5. Fruit Platter: A vibrant fruit platter featuring seasonal fruits enhances both nutrition and visual appeal.
6. Asian Slaw: Crunchy cabbage slaw dressed in sesame oil provides a delightful crunch alongside your salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the rinsing step: Rinsing pasta after cooking prevents it from becoming sticky. Always rinse with cold water to keep the pasta separate and fresh for your salad.
• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to achieve the desired flavor without overwhelming the ingredients.
• Not chilling the dressing: Serving a warm dressing can wilt the spinach and other greens. Allow your dressing to chill in the fridge before mixing it with the salad.
• Forgetting to chop ingredients: Large pieces can be hard to mix and eat. Ensure that your cilantro and mandarin oranges are chopped into bite-sized pieces for better texture and flavor distribution.
• Ignoring ingredient proportions: Using too many nuts or craisins can overpower other flavors. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced taste throughout your salad.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use glass or plastic containers that seal well to keep the salad fresh.

Freezing Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

• Duration: Best if consumed fresh; however, you can freeze without dressing for up to 1 month.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover the salad in a baking dish. Heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat until warm, stirring gently to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing.

Can I use different nuts in this salad?

Yes! Feel free to substitute pine nuts with cashews or walnuts based on your preference.

What if I don’t have teriyaki sauce?

You can create a quick homemade version using soy sauce, honey, and garlic powder if you need an alternative.

How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?

The Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days when kept in an airtight container.

Is this recipe adaptable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad is perfect for meal prep; just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

Can I add protein to my salad?

Yes! Grilled chicken or shrimp would complement this dish well and add extra protein.

Final Thoughts

The Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing is not only healthy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. This easy-to-make dish is a perfect choice for lunch or dinner, so give it a try!

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Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Elevate your meal with this vibrant Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing! Perfectly balancing flavors and textures, this salad is a delightful mix of fresh spinach, sweet mandarins, and crunchy nuts, all tossed in a delicious homemade teriyaki vinaigrette. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a light lunch.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 ounces bowtie pasta noodles
• 4 cups spinach leaves
• ½ cup craisins
• ⅓ cup pine nuts (or cashews)
• 1 4-ounce can mandarin oranges (drained)
• ¼ cup cilantro leaves (roughly chopped)
• ⅓ cup teriyaki sauce
• ⅓ cup rice apple vinegar
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• ½ cup oil (such as vegetable oil, canola oil, olive oil)

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Instructions

1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions; drain and rinse under cold water.
2. In a jar, combine teriyaki sauce, rice apple vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, sugar, and oil. Shake well and chill.
3. In a large mixing bowl, toss cooked pasta with spinach, craisins, nuts, mandarin oranges, and cilantro. Just before serving, add the chilled dressing and mix gently.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg