Asian Mandarin Orange + Spinach Pasta Salad

I absolutely love coming home.  My parents always take such good care of me.  This was the lunch that my Mom made the day I arrived in town.  It was so delicious and full of such flavor.  The dressing is amazing.  It would be great on a salad or even fish or meat as well.  I also think next time I may add in some cheese,  thinking either Parmesan, feta or goat cheese.   This would be perfect for a Summer picnic or even outdoor dinner party.  You could even serve it with some grilled eat like chicken or shrimp!  Saves well in the fridge for several days and is best served at room temperature!

Enjoy!

|| A S I A N   M A N D A R I  N  S P I N A C H   P A S T A   S A L A D ||

Thank you to everyone who alerted me to the original source of this recipe.  The recipe was passed to my mom from a friend on a note card so I had no idea.

via Creme de La Crumb

-8oz Bowtie Pasta

- 4 cups spinach

- 1/2 crasins or dried cherries

- 1/3 cup pine nuts

- 4 oz can mandarin oranges

2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

DRESSING

1/3 cup teriyaki sauce (recommend Kikkoman)

1/3 rice wine vinegar

1/2 garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder

1/4 tsp salt and pepper

1 tablespoon sugar

1/2 cup olive oil or canola

Whisk all dressing ingredients together.  Cook pasta according to box.  Drain and place in large bowl.  Add in other salad ingredients and pour dressing over.  Toss all together and enjoy!