Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

This Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this salad fits the bill. Quick to prepare and loaded with healthy ingredients, it’s tossed in a mouthwatering teriyaki dressing that ties everything together beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet mandarin oranges and savory teriyaki dressing makes every bite a flavorful delight.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or side dish, this salad pairs well with various proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh spinach, nuts, and fruit, this salad offers nutrients without sacrificing taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its vibrant colors and appealing flavors are sure to impress your guests at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Jar with lid (for dressing)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta thoroughly while rinsing it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious area for tossing all your ingredients together without spills.
• Jar with lid: Ideal for shaking up your teriyaki dressing until well combined.

Ingredients

For this delicious Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the bowtie pasta noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

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

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, toss together cooked pasta, spinach leaves, craisins, nuts, mandarin oranges, and cilantro.
2. Just before serving, pour the chilled dressing over the salad mixture.
3. Toss gently to ensure everything is coated evenly before serving immediately.

Enjoy your vibrant Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing, perfect for any meal!

How to Serve Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

This Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing is versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether for a casual lunch or a festive gathering, here are some suggestions to elevate your salad presentation.

Family Style

• Serve the salad in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a communal feel that’s perfect for family meals or gatherings.

Individual Portions

• Present the salad in individual bowls or plates. This adds a touch of elegance and makes it easy for guests to enjoy their servings without sharing.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• Top each serving with grilled chicken for added protein. The savory flavor of the chicken complements the teriyaki dressing beautifully.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle additional cilantro or green onions on top just before serving. This adds color and a fresh burst of flavor that enhances the overall dish.

Add Crunchy Toppings

• Include extra pine nuts or cashews on top for some crunch. This texture contrast makes each bite exciting and delicious.

How to Perfect Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

To ensure your Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad is as delightful as possible, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and ripe mandarins will give your salad vibrant colors and better flavors.
• Chill Your Dressing: Make sure the teriyaki dressing is chilled before adding it to the salad. A cold dressing enhances the refreshing nature of this dish.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cook your bowtie pasta until it’s just firm to the bite. This prevents it from becoming mushy when tossed with dressing.
• Experiment with Nuts: Feel free to swap out pine nuts for walnuts or almonds based on personal preference. Each nut brings its own unique taste and texture.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your dressing before serving; you can adjust the sugar to match your sweetness preference.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the ingredients ahead of time but mix them just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

Best Side Dishes for Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

Pairing side dishes with your Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Lightly seasoned shrimp grilled to perfection add protein and pair wonderfully with the salad’s sweetness.
2. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with vegetables provide a crunchy contrast that enhances the overall dining experience.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar brings a crisp, light element that balances out the richness of the teriyaki dressing.
4. Sesame Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in sesame oil and garlic add an Asian twist that ties all flavors together nicely.
5. Edamame Hummus: Serve this creamy dip alongside pita chips for a fun appetizer that keeps in line with Asian flavors.
6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup rounds out your meal, providing comforting warmth against the coolness of the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the rinsing step: Not rinsing the pasta after cooking can lead to clumping. Always rinse with cold water to keep the noodles separate and fresh.
• Using low-quality teriyaki sauce: A poor-quality teriyaki sauce can ruin the flavor. Opt for a thicker, higher-quality sauce for that rich taste that enhances the salad.
• Neglecting to chill the dressing: Serving the dressing warm can affect the salad’s overall taste. Chill your dressing ahead of time for a refreshing burst of flavor.
• Overloading on ingredients: Adding too many ingredients may overwhelm the main flavors. Stick to the recipe’s balance for a harmonious dish.
• Ignoring portion sizes: Not considering serving sizes can lead to leftovers or insufficient servings. Measure ingredients accurately to ensure everyone enjoys this delightful salad.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The salad is best consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep dressing separate until serving to maintain texture.

Freezing Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

• Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in spinach and pasta.
• If necessary, freeze only the dressing in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Thaw dressing in the refrigerator before using.

Reheating Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place salad in an oven-safe dish and heat for about 10 minutes, keeping it covered with foil.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until heated through. This method helps maintain texture without drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different pasta types for Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing?

Yes, you can substitute bowtie pasta with other types like rotini or penne. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I customize my Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad?

Feel free to add proteins like grilled chicken or tofu. You can also mix in other vegetables such as bell peppers or cucumbers for added crunch.

What variations can I make with the dressing?

You can experiment by adding sesame oil or fresh ginger to your teriyaki dressing for an extra kick of flavor!

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad holds well when stored properly and makes for an excellent meal prep option. Just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. This vibrant salad dazzles your palate while offering numerous customization options, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch or a side dish at dinner, it’s sure to impress your family and friends! Give it a try and discover your favorite variations!

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Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately four people. 1x

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Description

Discover the vibrant Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing, a delightful dish that brings together sweet mandarin oranges, fresh spinach, and hearty bowtie pasta. This salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner. In just 15 minutes, you can create a colorful and nutritious meal that’s bursting with flavor. Tossed in a homemade teriyaki dressing, this salad is not only healthy but also incredibly versatile. Serve it as a main dish or as a side to grilled proteins like chicken or shrimp. With its appealing textures and eye-catching colors, this salad is sure to impress your guests while being simple enough for everyday enjoyment.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 ounces bowtie pasta
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• ½ cup craisins
• ⅓ cup pine nuts or cashews
• 1 can (4 ounces) mandarin oranges
• ⅓ cup teriyaki sauce
• ⅓ cup rice apple vinegar
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ cup oil (vegetable, canola, or olive)

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Instructions

1. 1. Cook the bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
2. 2. In a jar, combine teriyaki sauce, rice apple vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, sugar, and oil. Shake well to mix.
3. 3. In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, spinach leaves, craisins, nuts, mandarin oranges, and cilantro.
4. 4. Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (250g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 0mg