Mandarin Spinach Pasta Salad

The Mandarin Spinach Pasta Salad with Teriyaki Dressing is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines the sweetness of mandarin oranges with the crunch of fresh spinach, carrots, and almonds. The bowtie pasta adds heartiness while a drizzle of homemade teriyaki glaze brings an irresistible savory-sweet balance. This colorful salad is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or light lunches. Ready in under 30 minutes, it offers a wholesome, satisfying meal packed with texture and bold Asian-inspired flavors. It’s as beautiful on the plate as it is delicious!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 8 oz bowtie pasta

• 4 cups fresh baby spinach

• 1 cup mandarin orange segments (canned or fresh)

• 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted

• 1/4 cup sliced green onions

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

• 1/2 cup shredded carrots

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

For the Teriyaki Dressing:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 1/4 cup rice vinegar

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

• 1 teaspoon grated ginger

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)

Directions:

1. Cook bowtie pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside to cool.

2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.

3. Stir together cornstarch and water, then add to the saucepan. Stir until the mixture thickens into a glaze. Remove from heat and let cool.

4. In a large bowl, combine spinach, mandarin oranges, green onions, cranberries, carrots, and almonds.

5. Add the cooled pasta to the salad bowl.

6. Drizzle the teriyaki dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

7. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 340 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Why You’ll Love This Salad

There are several reasons why the Mandarin Spinach Pasta Salad deserves a place in your recipe rotation:

1. Quick and Easy Preparation

This salad can be assembled in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep sessions, or last-minute gatherings. Most of the ingredients require minimal chopping, and the pasta cooks quickly while you prep the rest.

2. A Balance of Sweet, Savory, and Crunchy

What truly sets this salad apart is the harmony of textures and flavors. The sweetness of juicy mandarin oranges contrasts beautifully with the umami richness of the teriyaki dressing. Toss in fresh spinach, shredded carrots, and toasted almonds, and you get a satisfying crunch with every bite. The addition of bowtie pasta provides substance without overwhelming the freshness of the greens and fruits.

3. Vibrant Colors = Visual Appeal

If you’re someone who enjoys meals that look as good as they taste, this salad is perfect for you. The bright orange mandarin segments, deep green spinach leaves, vibrant shredded carrots, and lightly toasted almonds combine to create a visually stunning dish. It’s perfect for social media snaps or entertaining guests.

Nutritional Benefits of the Key Ingredients

Beyond its taste and convenience, this salad is also a nutritional powerhouse. Let’s break down some of the health benefits of the primary components:

Spinach – A Green Superfood

Spinach is one of the most nutrient-dense leafy greens available. Packed with vitamins A, C, K, and folate, spinach supports eye health, bone strength, and a healthy immune system. Its mild flavor makes it a great base for salads without overpowering other ingredients.

Mandarin Oranges – Vitamin C Boost

Mandarins not only provide a burst of sweetness but are also a fantastic source of vitamin C. They’re great for boosting your immune health, supporting skin vitality, and providing hydration due to their high water content.

Pasta – A Filling Base

Bowtie (farfalle) pasta adds heartiness and carbohydrates, making this salad a complete meal. Opting for whole-grain pasta can increase fiber content, keeping you fuller for longer.

Toasted Almonds – Healthy Fats and Crunch

Almonds introduce a dose of healthy monounsaturated fats and protein. Toasting them enhances their flavor, adding a rich nutty note that balances the sweetness of the mandarins and dressing.

Teriyaki Dressing – Flavor with a Healthier Twist

Traditional teriyaki sauces can sometimes be heavy on sugar and sodium, but making a homemade version allows you to control the ingredients. This recipe uses a balance of soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger for a healthier, flavor-packed glaze without unnecessary additives.

Customization Ideas

One of the great things about the Mandarin Spinach Pasta Salad is how versatile it is. You can tweak it based on dietary preferences, ingredients you have on hand, or your flavor mood. Here are a few ideas:

Add Protein:

• Grilled Chicken: A lean, high-protein option that pairs perfectly with the teriyaki dressing.

• Tofu: For a plant-based variation, marinate tofu in soy sauce and lightly pan-fry before adding to the salad.

• Shrimp: A seafood twist adds a light, fresh taste.

Swap the Greens:

While spinach is classic, you can substitute or mix it with other greens like arugula, kale, or even romaine for added crunch and diversity.

Different Nuts & Seeds:

Instead of almonds, try cashews, sunflower seeds, or chopped pecans. Each provides a unique texture and flavor dimension.

Pasta Alternatives:

Whole wheat pasta, rice noodles, or even gluten-free options like chickpea pasta can be swapped in depending on dietary needs.

Fruit Variations:

Mandarins are fantastic, but fresh pineapple chunks, mango, or even thinly sliced apples would also complement the teriyaki dressing beautifully.

Perfect Pairings for a Complete Meal

While the Mandarin Spinach Pasta Salad can easily stand alone as a light meal, it pairs exceptionally well with other dishes:

Grilled Meats:

Serve alongside grilled chicken skewers, teriyaki steak, or salmon for a complete and satisfying meal.

Soup Companions:

Pair it with a light broth-based soup like miso or a vegetable soup to round out lunch or dinner.

Appetizer Additions:

Complement with fresh spring rolls, gyoza (dumplings), or crispy edamame for an Asian-inspired spread.

Storing and Meal Prep Tips

This salad is perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to store it properly:

• Make Ahead: You can cook the pasta and prepare the dressing a day in advance. Keep them separate from the fresh vegetables until you’re ready to serve.

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The spinach may slightly wilt, but the flavors continue to meld beautifully.

• Dressing: Keep the teriyaki dressing in a separate container if you plan to enjoy the salad over a few days, ensuring the veggies and pasta don’t get soggy.

Why This Salad Stands Out

With so many pasta salad recipes available, what makes the Mandarin Spinach Pasta Salad with Teriyaki Dressing special is its clever use of contrasts:

• Sweet + Savory: The natural sweetness of mandarins combined with the salty umami teriyaki glaze creates a unique flavor profile.

• Soft + Crunchy: The tender pasta and spinach balance against the crunch of carrots, nuts, and sesame seeds.

• Simple + Sophisticated: It’s easy to prepare but visually stunning, making it perfect for casual lunches or elegant gatherings.

Conclusion:

The Mandarin Spinach Pasta Salad with Teriyaki Dressing is more than just a salad it’s a vibrant medley of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and delightful textures. Its ability to be customized to suit a variety of tastes and dietary preferences makes it a go-to option for home cooks everywhere. Whether you’re prepping meals ahead of time, entertaining guests, or just craving something fresh and flavorful, this salad offers the perfect balance of ease and elegance.

Next time you’re in the mood for something light yet satisfying, give this salad a try. You’ll quickly find it becoming a staple in your kitchen delicious, colorful, and nourishing, all in one bowl.