Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

This Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will brighten up any meal. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a potluck, this salad is not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrients. The sweet mandarin oranges paired with the savory teriyaki dressing create a unique taste experience that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this salad is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of spinach, mandarin oranges, and a savory teriyaki dressing makes this salad both refreshing and satisfying.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side dish or add grilled chicken or turkey for a heartier main course.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants from fresh spinach and fruit, it’s a guilt-free addition to any meal.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or add extra veggies to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking pasta evenly. A larger size helps prevent sticking.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for tossing ingredients together without spilling. A large bowl allows for easy mixing.
• Jar with lid: Perfect for shaking up the dressing. It ensures all ingredients combine thoroughly without mess.

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)

How to Make Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a jar, add all the dressing ingredients: teriyaki sauce, rice apple vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, sugar, and oil.
2. Cover the jar tightly and shake vigorously until all ingredients are well combined.
3. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients

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

Enjoy your delicious Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing! It’s sure to be a hit at any occasion!

How to Serve Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

This Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing is a vibrant dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether it’s a light lunch, a dinner side, or a potluck offering, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your salad experience.

For a Light Lunch

• Serve it chilled for a refreshing meal.
• Pair with whole grain bread for added fiber and satisfaction.

As a Dinner Side

• Complement grilled chicken or turkey for a balanced plate.
• It’s also great alongside roasted vegetables to enhance flavors.

At Potlucks or Gatherings

• Offer in a large bowl for guests to serve themselves.
• Garnish with extra cilantro and mandarin slices for an appealing look.

With Additional Proteins

• Top with grilled tofu or tempeh for a plant-based protein boost.
• Add shredded chicken or beef for those who prefer heartier options.

How to Perfect Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

To make the most of your Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing, consider these helpful tips:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and quality pasta enhance flavor and texture.
• Chill your dressing: Allowing the dressing to chill intensifies its flavor, making each bite more delicious.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste the dressing before serving; feel free to add more sugar if you prefer it sweeter.
• Mix just before serving: This keeps the salad crisp and prevents sogginess from the dressing.
• Experiment with nuts: Try different nuts like almonds or walnuts for varied textures and tastes.

Best Side Dishes for Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

When serving this salad, pairing it with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated in teriyaki sauce, these skewers echo the salad’s flavors beautifully.
2. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with colorful veggies add crunch and freshness.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs provides protein and fiber alongside the salad.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs well with the tangy salad dressing.
5. Garlic Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans tossed in garlic complement the salad’s textures perfectly.
6. Fruit Platter: A mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the savory notes of the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Not cooking pasta properly: Overcooking or undercooking pasta can affect texture. Always follow package instructions for the best results.
• Ignoring the dressing ingredients: Using low-quality teriyaki sauce or vinegar can ruin the flavor. Choose thicker sauces and fresh ingredients to enhance taste.
• Skipping the chilling step: Not allowing the dressing to chill can lead to a less flavorful salad. Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
• Overcrowding the salad: Adding too many ingredients can overwhelm flavors. Stick to the recipe for a balanced taste and perfect texture.
• Neglecting to toss before serving: Failing to mix the salad well may cause uneven distribution of ingredients. Toss thoroughly just before serving for an even coating of dressing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Temperature: Keep at or below 40°F (4°C).
• Container: Use glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids.

Freezing Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

• Duration: Best consumed fresh; however, it can be frozen for up to 1 month.
• Container: Freeze in airtight freezer bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• Thawing: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring gently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing.

Can I use other types of pasta?

You can definitely substitute bowtie pasta with any pasta you prefer, such as fusilli or penne.

Is this salad gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and check all other ingredients for gluten content.

How can I customize my Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing?

Feel free to add grilled chicken, tofu, or extra veggies like bell peppers and carrots for more flavor and nutrition.

What should I do if I don’t have teriyaki sauce?

You can create a quick alternative by mixing soy sauce with honey or maple syrup and a splash of ginger.

Final Thoughts

The Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor! Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. Try adding your favorite proteins or veggies for a unique twist!