Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

This Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or bringing a dish to a potluck, this salad is both refreshing and satisfying. The combination of tender bowtie pasta, vibrant spinach, sweet mandarin oranges, and the irresistible teriyaki dressing creates a unique salad that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The teriyaki dressing adds an addictive umami flavor that elevates the whole dish.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side or main dish, it pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can stand alone as a vegetarian meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh spinach, nuts, and fruits, this salad not only tastes great but also provides essential nutrients.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its vibrant colors and delicious taste, it’s sure to impress friends and family at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools before starting. Having the right equipment can save time and effort while preparing this delightful salad.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for cooking pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Colander: Ensures proper draining of pasta after cooking to avoid excess moisture in your salad.
• Jar with lid: Ideal for shaking up the teriyaki dressing to combine all ingredients seamlessly.

Ingredients

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

For the Salad Base

• 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. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine all dressing ingredients:
2. Teriyaki sauce
3. Rice apple vinegar
4. Garlic powder
5. Onion powder (if using)
6. Salt
7. Black pepper
8. Sugar

9. Oil

10. Cover the jar tightly and shake vigorously until all ingredients are well combined. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, fresh spinach leaves, craisins, nuts, mandarin oranges, and chopped cilantro.
2. Just before serving, pour the chilled dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

This delightful Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve immediately or chill further before serving for extra freshness.

How to Serve Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

This refreshing Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing is perfect for many occasions. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a quick meal, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

With Grilled Chicken

• Adding grilled chicken strips can turn this salad into a hearty main course, providing extra protein and flavor.

As a Side Dish

• Serve it alongside grilled meats or fish. The vibrant flavors complement the richness of these proteins beautifully.

In a Wrap

• Use the salad as a filling in a wrap. It adds crunch and zest, making for a delicious lunch option.

At a Potluck

• This salad travels well, making it an ideal choice for potluck gatherings. Its bright colors will attract attention on any buffet table.

With Extra Toppings

• Enhance your salad with additional toppings like feta cheese or avocado slices for added creaminess and taste.

How to Perfect Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

To ensure you achieve the best results with your Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and ripe mandarin oranges enhance the flavor and texture of your salad.
• Adjust the dressing: If you prefer a tangier taste, add more rice vinegar to the dressing according to your preference.
• Toast the nuts: Lightly toasting pine nuts or cashews brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes helps meld the flavors together.
• Experiment with proteins: Try adding shrimp or tofu for an alternative protein source that pairs well with the teriyaki dressing.
• Customize your pasta: Feel free to use other pasta shapes like fusilli or penne for variety in texture and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

Pairing side dishes can enhance your dining experience with this flavorful salad. Here are some options that go well together.

1. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a smoky flavor that complements the freshness of the salad.
2. Edamame Hummus: This creamy dip offers a unique twist and pairs nicely with crackers or veggie sticks.
3. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad provides a cool crunch that balances well with the pasta salad’s textures.
4. Teriyaki Glazed Salmon: The salmon’s rich taste matches beautifully with the teriyaki dressing in the salad.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness enhances the overall flavor profile of your meal while adding nutritional value.
6. Fruit Skewers: A mix of seasonal fruits can serve as a sweet contrast to your savory dish, making it enjoyable for everyone.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing, it’s easy to overlook some important steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Chilling Step: Not chilling the dressing can lead to a less flavorful salad. Always chill your dressing before adding it to enhance the flavors.

• Not Rinsing Pasta: Failing to rinse the cooked pasta can result in clumping. Rinse it under cold water immediately after cooking to prevent sticking.

• Overloading on Dressing: Using too much dressing can overpower the salad’s flavors. Start with a smaller amount and add more as desired.

• Ignoring Ingredient Quality: Using low-quality ingredients can affect taste. Opt for fresh spinach, quality teriyaki sauce, and ripe mandarins for the best results.

• Not Prepping Ahead: Preparing ingredients last minute can lead to a rushed experience. Chop and measure everything beforehand for a smoother process.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The salad is best consumed within 2–3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.

Freezing Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

• This salad does not freeze well due to its fresh ingredients.
• It’s recommended to store leftovers in the fridge instead of freezing.

Reheating Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the pasta gently. Be cautious, as reheating may alter texture.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warmed through.

• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil if needed. Stir frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing?

Yes! You can add proteins like grilled chicken or tofu, or swap out nuts based on preference.

How do I make my own teriyaki dressing?

You can easily mix soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic for a homemade version that’s perfect for this salad.

What other greens can I use besides spinach?

Feel free to substitute kale or arugula if you prefer different greens in your Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad holds up well for meal prep as long as you keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

This Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing is not only quick and healthy but also incredibly versatile. With its vibrant flavors and textures, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite proteins or nuts! Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.