Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing (from lecremedelacrumb)

 

(This is a highly requested recipe when I have made it and brought to dinners.  The dressing is addicting and is what makes this salad - enjoy!)

Ingredients:

~  8 oz. bowtie pasta  ( I have used mini bowtie and it works really well)

~  4 c. spinach leaves

~  1/2 c. craisins

~  1/3 c. pine nuts (she has you can use cashews, but I find the pine nuts are perfect)

~  1 ( 4oz) can mandarin oranges, drained

~  1/4 c. cilantro leaves, roughly chopped ( I usually omit this - I have family that doesn't like cilantro)

Dressing:

~  1/3 c. teriyaki sauce, can use Kikkoman
( the thicker the better, we use Kinder's - we found this at Costco)

~  1/3 c. rice wine vinegar (I use the seasoned rice vinegar)

~  1/2 tsp. garlic powder

~  1/2 tsp. onion powder

~  1/4 tsp. salt

~  1/4 tsp. pepper

~  1 Tbsp. sugar

~  1/2 c. oil ( I used avocado oil, but can use olive oil)

Instructions:

1.  Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain and rinse with cold water.  Set aside.

2.  While pasta is boiling, prepare dressing.  In a jar combine all dressing ingredients.  Cover, shake to combine.  Chill until ready to use

3.  In large bowl, toss together pasta, spinach, craisins, nuts, mandarin oranges and cilantro if used.  Before serving, pour dressing over salad, toss and serve