Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing
Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing is a vibrant and nutritious dish that brings together the fresh flavors of spinach, juicy mandarin oranges, and hearty pasta, all drizzled in a homemade teriyaki vinaigrette. Quick to prepare, this salad is perfect for busy weeknights or as a stunning side at summer gatherings. Its delightful combination of textures and colors makes it not only a feast for the palate but also for the eyes. This versatile recipe can be served alone as a light meal or alongside grilled proteins for a more filling option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces bowtie pasta
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- ½ cup craisins
- ⅓ cup pine nuts (or cashews)
- 1 can (4 ounces) mandarin oranges (drained)
- ⅓ cup teriyaki sauce
- ⅓ cup rice apple vinegar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (if using)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ½ cup oil
Instructions
- Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water; set aside.
- In a jar, combine teriyaki sauce, rice apple vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder (if using), salt, black pepper, sugar, and oil. Shake well and chill in the refrigerator.
- In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, spinach leaves, craisins, nuts, mandarin oranges, and cilantro.
- Just before serving, pour chilled dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg