Mandarin Spinach Pasta Salad

Serves: 6

Prep Time: 15-minutes; Chill Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 15-minutes

Recipe developed by CFW Health & Fitness Professional Jackie Lavigueur

Ingredients:

  • 1 box of chickpea pasta
  • Two 11 oz. cans of mandarin oranges
  • ½ cup of dried cranberries
  • ½ cup of mozzarella pearls
  • 1 bunch of green onions, chopped
  • 1/3 cup of baby spinach

Dressing:

  • ½ cup of olive oil
  • ¾ cup of teriyaki sauce
  • 1/2 cup of white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Instructions:

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water.
  2. In a small bowl whisk to combine dressing ingredients. Set it aside.
  3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, rinse with cold water.
  4. Add drained, cooked pasta to a large bowl. Pour dressing over the top and gently toss to combine.
  5. Refrigerate to chill for at least 2 hours.
  6. Once ready to serve add mandarin oranges, dried cranberries, mozzarella pearls, green onions, and baby spinach.
  7. Tip: add meat such as turkey, chicken, or sausage for more protein.
  8. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

Nutrition Information:

  • Serving size ~1 cup
  • 281 Total Calories
  • 10g of protein
  • 9g of fat
  • 40g of carbs