Description
A vibrant and refreshing Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad featuring bowtie pasta, fresh spinach, sweet mandarin oranges, craisins, and crunchy pine nuts, all tossed in a tangy homemade teriyaki dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or a side dish, this salad combines sweet and savory flavors with fresh herbs for a delightful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Salad Ingredients
- 8 ounces bowtie pasta
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup craisins
- â…“ cup pine nuts (or cashews)
- 1 can (4 ounces) mandarin oranges
- ¼ cup cilantro leaves
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Dressing Ingredients
- â…“ cup teriyaki sauce
- â…“ 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, or olive oil)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a jar, combine the teriyaki sauce, rice apple vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, sugar, and oil. Secure the lid and shake vigorously until the ingredients are well emulsified. Chill the dressing in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, fresh spinach, craisins, pine nuts (or cashews), mandarin orange segments, and cilantro leaves. Toss gently to mix all ingredients evenly.
- Toss with Dressing: Just before serving, pour the chilled teriyaki dressing over the salad. Toss the salad gently to evenly coat all ingredients with the flavorful dressing. Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Rinsing the pasta with cold water after cooking ensures the salad stays cool and prevents the pasta from overcooking or sticking.
- Substitute pine nuts with cashews or walnuts depending on availability and preference.
- For a vegan version, ensure the teriyaki sauce is vegan-friendly or make your own from soy sauce and sweetener.
- Preparing the dressing in advance lets the flavors meld, enhancing the salad’s taste.
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
