Summer’s warm days call for light, vibrant pasta salads that balance crisp greens and citrus sweetness. A spinach and mandarin orange salad stands out for its refreshing flavors and ease of preparation.

Beyond taste, mandarin oranges deliver vitamin C and antioxidants. For an in-depth look at different cultivars, see Mandarin orange varieties. Discover the roots of this dish in the history of pasta salad, and learn about ideal noodles in the rotini pasta overview. You can also find creative ideas on summer salad inspiration and pasta salad recipes board, or try recipe variations in our Spinach & Mandarin Oranges with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing and Mediterranean Spinach, Mandarin & Feta Orzo Salad.

To customize, explore different grains such as orzo pasta characteristics, and enhance flavors with benefits of sesame oil. For inspiration, see healthy salad ideas, picnic recipe inspiration, or Asian-inspired salad recipes. Revisit Easy Asian-Inspired Chicken Mandarin Pasta Salad.

Recipe 1: Easy Asian-Inspired Chicken Mandarin Pasta Salad

This vibrant pasta salad combines tender precooked chicken, juicy mandarin oranges, and colorful tri-colored pasta for a crowd-pleasing dish. A simple yet impactful Asian-inspired dressing coats every bite, making it ideal for light lunches, potlucks, or meal prep. Its balanced mix of protein, fiber, and sweet citrus ensures both satisfaction and refreshment. Cooked chicken breast keeps prep minimal, while crisp vegetables add texture and nutrients.

Ingredients

• 8 oz rotini pasta
• 2 cups diced chicken breast
• 1 cup drained mandarin oranges
• 1 diced red bell pepper
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
• ½ cup sliced black olives
• 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Dressing

• 2 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 Tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 Tbsp honey
• 1 tsp sesame oil (see benefits of sesame oil)
• Pinch of red pepper flakes

Begin by cooking the pasta until al dente, then rinse under cold water to prevent clumping and secure that perfect al dente bite. In a small bowl, whisk the dressing ingredients until smooth. Combine pasta, chicken, mandarin oranges, bell pepper, carrots, onion, and olives in a large bowl.

Toss gently to coat every morsel in the tangy mixture. Chill for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors and maintain crispness. For a creamy twist, explore Recipe 2: Spinach & Mandarin Oranges with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing or savor a Mediterranean spin in Mediterranean Spinach, Mandarin & Feta Orzo Salad.

Recipe 2: Spinach & Mandarin Oranges with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing

This Spinach & Mandarin Oranges with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing offers a luscious texture and balanced sweetness that complements the tender baby spinach and zesty mandarin oranges. Perfect for summer gatherings, this salad highlights seasonal produce and an indulgent yet light dressing.

Ingredients

• 6 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 can (11 oz) drained mandarin oranges
• ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• ¼ cup chopped almonds
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

To prepare, gently toss spinach, mandarin oranges, red onion, carrots, and almonds in a large bowl. Ensure ingredients are evenly distributed before adding any dressing. For additional inspiration, check our Mediterranean Spinach, Mandarin & Feta Orzo Salad and explore orzo pasta characteristics.

For the creamy poppy seed dressing, whisk together ½ cup Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon poppy seeds until smooth. Alternatively, substitute yogurt for low-fat mayonnaise to adjust texture. Discover benefits of different oils like sesame oil or explore healthy salad ideas for more dressing variations. To boost aroma, add toasted sunflower seeds or chopped fresh basil. For creative twists, see Cold Sesame Spinach & Mandarin Soba Noodle Salad and browse picnic recipe inspiration today.

Recipe 3: Mediterranean Spinach, Mandarin & Feta Orzo Salad

This Mediterranean spinach, mandarin & feta orzo salad blends jewel-toned ingredients for a flavorful side or main dish. Tender orzo pasta mingles with crisp spinach, juicy mandarin orange segments, and tangy feta cheese, producing a rich texture and bright flavor profile. Fresh herbs and a light vinaigrette complete this summer salad.

Ingredients

• 8 oz uncooked orzo pasta
• 4 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 can (11 oz) drained mandarin oranges
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
• 2 Tbsp chopped fresh oregano or basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook orzo until al dente, drain, and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent stickiness. For grain details, consult orzo pasta characteristics and browse healthy salad ideas for topping suggestions.

In a small bowl, whisk together 3 Tbsp olive oil, 1 Tbsp red wine vinegar, 1 tsp honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss dressing with orzo, spinach, oranges, feta, onion, and herbs. Chill for at least 20 minutes. To vary this recipe, see Cold Sesame Spinach & Mandarin Soba Noodle Salad or explore Spinach, Mandarin & Pesto Fusilli Salad for alternative textures.

Recipe 4: Cold Sesame Spinach & Mandarin Soba Noodle Salad

This chilled soba noodle salad marries nutty sesame flavors with crisp baby spinach and sweet mandarin orange segments. Buckwheat soba noodles add a light chewiness, while fresh spinach delivers vibrant color and nutrients. This recipe shines at barbecue side dishes, potlucks, or quick weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

• 8 oz soba noodles
• 4 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 can (11 oz) drained mandarin oranges
• 2 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro

Cook soba noodles according to package directions, then drain and rinse under cold water to remove excess starch. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 Tbsp tahini, 2 Tbsp rice vinegar, 1 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tsp honey, and 1 tsp sesame oil. Toss noodles, spinach, mandarin oranges, green onions, and sesame seeds with the dressing until everything is evenly coated. Chill for at least 15 minutes to let flavors meld and maintain crisp textures. For a creamy twist, explore Recipe 5: Spinach, Mandarin & Pesto Fusilli Salad or revisit Recipe 2: Spinach & Mandarin Oranges with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing.

Customize this salad by swapping soba for whole-wheat fusilli or explore grain alternatives like orzo pasta characteristics. Add crunch with toasted almonds or see healthy salad ideas for more topping inspiration. For additional citrus zing, sprinkle extra mandarin segments and revisit Summer salad inspiration to elevate your presentation.

Recipe 5: Spinach, Mandarin & Pesto Fusilli Salad

This Spinach, Mandarin & Pesto Fusilli Salad blends al dente fusilli with tender baby spinach and sweet mandarin orange segments. A vibrant pesto dressing—either classic basil or sun-dried tomato—lends aromatic depth, while toasted pine nuts add crunch. Ideal for summer potlucks or a light weeknight meal.

Ingredients

• 8 oz fusilli pasta
• 4 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 can (11 oz) drained mandarin oranges
• ¼ cup prepared pesto sauce (basil or sun-dried tomato)
• 2 Tbsp toasted pine nuts
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1. Cook fusilli until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and remove starch.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pesto, 1 Tbsp olive oil, and 1 tsp honey for a touch of sweetness.
3. Add pasta, spinach, mandarin oranges, and pine nuts; toss gently until every piece is coated.
4. Chill for at least 20 minutes to let flavors meld and maintain crisp textures.

For an Asian flair, revisit Easy Asian-Inspired Chicken Mandarin Pasta Salad or contrast with the nutty notes in Cold Sesame Spinach & Mandarin Soba Noodle Salad. Explore additional dressing ideas on healthy salad ideas and find more grain alternatives in the orzo pasta overview.

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Recipe Variations & Customizations

• Protein swaps:
  • Shrimp: Sauté briefly and toss in at the last minute.
  • Tofu: Press and pan-fry cubes before adding.
  • Chickpeas: Drain, rinse, and roast with paprika for extra flavor.
• Grain alternatives:
  • Quinoa (rinse well to remove bitterness).
  • Farro (cook until chewy).
  • Whole-wheat pasta for added fiber.
• Flavor boosts:
  • Toasted nuts or seeds (almonds, sunflower seeds).
  • Fresh herbs (basil, cilantro, parsley).
  • Citrus zest (orange or lemon) for extra zing.
• Dietary tweaks:
  • Vegan: Replace honey with maple syrup and use tahini-based dressing.
  • Gluten-free: Swap fusilli or soba for gluten-free pasta or rice noodles.

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Nutrition, Storage, and Meal-Prep Tips

• Nutrition profile (per serving approx.):
  • Calories: 280–320 kcal
  • Protein: 12–15 g
  • Fiber: 4–6 g
  • Vitamin C, A, and healthy fats from olive oil or pesto.
• Make-ahead:
  • Store dressing separately for up to 3 days.
  • Keep chopped vegetables and pasta chilled in airtight containers.
• Storage:
  • Assemble fully and refrigerate up to 24 hours for best texture.
  • Avoid freezing—citrus and greens lose quality when thawed.
• Serving:
  • Let salad sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.
  • Garnish with extra mandarin segments or fresh herbs.

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Conclusion & Call to Action

Our five spinach and mandarin orange pasta salads showcase versatile flavors and simple prep—perfect for summer entertaining or meal-prep. From Asian-inspired dressings to Mediterranean twists, each recipe can be customized for dietary needs. Try one today, share your creations on social media, and tag us to inspire fellow salad lovers!

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FAQs

1. Can I use canned mandarin oranges?
   Yes—drain well to avoid excess liquid. Fresh segments work too if in season.
2. How long will the salad stay fresh?
   Up to 24 hours chilled; store components separately if making ahead.
3. What’s the best way to prevent soggy pasta?
   Rinse immediately under cold water after cooking and drain thoroughly.
4. Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
   Absolutely—just scale ingredients and ensure ample chilling time.
5. How do I make these salads ahead for picnics?
   Pack dressing in a separate container and assemble on-site to maintain crispness.

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