Description
A refreshing and vibrant Mandarin Spinach Pasta Salad combining tender rotini pasta with fresh baby spinach, juicy mandarin oranges, and toasted almonds. Tossed in a creamy Greek yogurt-based dressing with a touch of honey and apple cider vinegar, this salad is a perfect light and healthy dish for summer gatherings or quick meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 ounces rotini or bowtie pasta, cooked and drained
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 can (11 ounces) mandarin oranges, drained
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
Dressing
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the rotini or bowtie pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, fresh baby spinach, drained mandarin oranges, toasted almonds, thinly sliced red onion, and shredded carrots.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Toss Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together until the salad is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold for a refreshing and delicious dish.
Notes
- For added protein, consider incorporating grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- Substitute slivered almonds with walnuts or pecans for a different nutty flavor.
- For a lighter version, reduce the amount of mayonnaise and increase the Greek yogurt in the dressing.
