Mandarin Spinach Pasta Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is quick to prepare, packed with texture, and bursting with bright, citrusy flavor. It’s versatile enough to serve as a side or a main dish, and it holds up well for gatherings or meal prep. The combination of crisp greens, soft pasta, and sweet mandarins makes it both satisfying and refreshing. Plus, it’s easy to customize to your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked pasta (rotini, bowtie, or penne work well)

• Fresh baby spinach

• Canned mandarin oranges (drained)

• Sliced almonds or chopped pecans

• Red onion, thinly sliced

• Feta cheese or goat cheese (optional)

• Poppy seed dressing or citrus vinaigrette

Direction

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool completely.

2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, fresh spinach, mandarin oranges, red onion, and nuts.

3. If using, add crumbled feta or goat cheese.

4. Drizzle the salad with poppy seed dressing or your preferred vinaigrette.

5. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

6. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.

7. Toss again before serving, adding extra dressing if needed.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.

• Fruit options: Swap mandarin oranges for strawberries, blueberries, or apple slices.

• Nut alternatives: Use walnuts, sunflower seeds, or candied pecans for different textures.

• Pasta alternatives: Use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options if needed.

• Dressing swap: Try balsamic vinaigrette, raspberry dressing, or homemade citrus dressing.

Storage/Reheating

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For best texture, store the dressing separately and toss right before serving if making ahead.
This dish is best served cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to avoid sogginess.

What type of pasta is best?

Short, bite-sized pasta like rotini, bowtie, or penne work well and hold up nicely in salads.

Can I use fresh mandarin oranges?

Yes, fresh mandarin or clementine segments can be used instead of canned.

Is this salad good for potlucks or picnics?

Absolutely! It travels well and is a crowd-pleaser for gatherings.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative, and ensure your dressing is vegan.

What dressing pairs best with this salad?

Poppy seed dressing or citrus vinaigrette works wonderfully. Balsamic or honey mustard are also good options.

Can I add avocado?

Yes, diced avocado adds creaminess, but add it just before serving to prevent browning.

How do I keep the spinach from wilting?

Toss the salad just before serving and avoid overdressing. Store spinach and dressing separately if making ahead.

Is this salad served warm or cold?

It’s best served chilled or at room temperature.

Can I use arugula or other greens instead of spinach?

Yes, arugula, mixed greens, or kale can be used in place of spinach for different flavor profiles.

Conclusion

Mandarin Spinach Pasta Salad is a fresh, colorful, and delicious dish that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Whether you’re bringing it to a picnic or prepping lunch for the week, it’s a light yet satisfying option packed with flavor and nutrition. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a staple in your salad rotation.

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