This Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick lunch option, this salad is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. The refreshing taste of mandarin oranges combined with the savory teriyaki dressing creates a unique dish that everyone will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with spinach and mandarin oranges, this salad offers essential vitamins and minerals.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side or main dish; it’s perfect for gatherings or as a meal prep option.
- Flavorful Dressing: The homemade teriyaki vinaigrette adds a delicious twist that enhances the overall taste.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its bright colors and unique flavors, this salad is sure to impress your guests.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation 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: Ideal for boiling pasta quickly and evenly.
- Colander: Ensures you can drain the pasta effectively without losing any noodles.
- Mixing bowl: Provides ample space for tossing all ingredients together without spilling.
- Jar with lid: Perfect for shaking up the dressing until all ingredients are well combined.
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)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the bowtie pasta noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- In a jar, combine teriyaki sauce, rice apple vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, sugar, and oil.
- Securely cover the jar and shake vigorously until all ingredients are well blended.
- Chill in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, spinach leaves, craisins, pine nuts or cashews, mandarin oranges, and chopped cilantro.
- Just before serving, pour the chilled dressing over the salad mixture.
- Toss gently to combine everything evenly and serve immediately.
Enjoy your delicious Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing, perfect for any meal!
How to Serve Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing
This vibrant salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious and nutritious option for any meal. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions to elevate your Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing.
As a Main Course
- This salad can stand alone as a light main dish, perfect for lunch or dinner. Add grilled chicken or shrimp to boost protein content.
At a Potluck
- Bring this salad to your next gathering! It’s easy to make in bulk and is sure to be a hit among guests.
With Grilled Meats
- Pair this refreshing salad with grilled meats like teriyaki chicken or steak. The flavors complement each other beautifully.
As a Side Dish
- Serve it alongside Asian-inspired dishes or barbecued foods. The teriyaki dressing adds an exciting twist that enhances the meal.
How to Perfect Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing
To make your Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing even better, keep these tips in mind:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and ripe mandarin oranges will enhance the flavor and texture of your salad.
- Chill the dressing: Allowing your dressing to chill before serving intensifies its flavors, making every bite more enjoyable.
- Customize your nuts: Feel free to swap pine nuts for cashews or walnuts, depending on your preference.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add more sugar or honey until it reaches your desired taste.
- Add protein: Boost nutrition by including grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for added protein.
- Serve immediately: For the best texture and flavor, toss your salad just before serving to keep the ingredients crisp.
Best Side Dishes for Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing
This salad pairs well with a variety of side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options:
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers grilled and lightly seasoned make a great side.
- Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame brings a nice crunch and protein boost, ideal for an Asian-inspired meal.
- Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp or vegetables offer a delightful addition that matches the salad’s theme.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup complements the coolness of the salad while adding depth to your meal.
- Rice Paper Wraps: These wraps can be filled with shrimp, avocado, or vegetables, providing a fun interactive eating experience.
- Fruit Platter: A colorful display of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the savory flavors of the salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing can be simple, but a few common pitfalls can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcooking the pasta: Ensure you follow the package instructions closely to avoid mushy pasta. Al dente pasta holds up better in salads.
- Ignoring the dressing preparation: Don’t rush the dressing! Mix the ingredients well and let them chill for deeper flavors before adding to the salad.
- Skipping rinsing the pasta: Rinsing your cooked pasta with cold water stops the cooking process and helps prevent clumping in your salad.
- Not seasoning properly: Taste your dressing before adding it to the salad. Adjust salt and pepper to enhance flavors and ensure a balanced taste.
- Using stale nuts or dried fruit: Always check your ingredients for freshness. Fresh nuts and craisins provide better flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 days.
- Keep the dressing separate if possible, as it may make the salad soggy over time.
Freezing Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing
- Freezing is not recommended for this salad since fresh greens do not freeze well. The texture will change once thawed.
- If you must freeze, consider freezing only the pasta and teriyaki dressing separately.
Reheating Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes. This method is best for reheating pasta without losing texture.
- Microwave: Heat in short increments of 30 seconds on medium power, stirring in between until warmed through.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or oil and stir until heated evenly. This method helps maintain texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I customize my Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing?
Yes! You can add chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein. Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots based on your preference.
How long does this salad stay fresh?
When stored correctly, it can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal taste and texture.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare all components separately and combine them just before serving. This keeps everything fresh!
What are some serving suggestions for this salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled meats or as a light lunch on its own. Add some toasted sesame seeds on top for an extra crunch!
Final Thoughts
The Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing is not only quick and easy to prepare but also offers a delightful combination of flavors that appeal to many tastes. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences or seasonal ingredients. Give it a try, and enjoy a healthy, delicious meal that’s perfect year-round!
Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing
Indulge in the refreshing flavors of our Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing, a vibrant dish perfect for any occasion. This salad combines the sweetness of mandarin oranges, the earthiness of spinach, and the savory notes of a homemade teriyaki vinaigrette. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this nutritious meal that works as a standalone main dish or a delightful side at gatherings. With its bright colors and satisfying textures, this salad is not only visually appealing but also a crowd-pleaser that will impress family and friends alike. Enjoy it fresh for lunch, dinner, or as a potluck favorite!
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 8 ounces bowtie pasta
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- ½ cup craisins
- ⅓ cup pine nuts or cashews
- 1 4-ounce can mandarin oranges, drained
- 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)
- ¼ cup cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook bowtie pasta until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water.
- For the dressing, combine teriyaki sauce, rice apple vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, sugar, and oil in a jar. Shake well until blended and chill.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss together cooked pasta, spinach, craisins, nuts, mandarin oranges, and cilantro. Just before serving, drizzle with chilled dressing and mix gently.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg