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–+ servings

Autumn Spinach and Apple Pasta Salad

A vibrant and healthy pasta salad featuring crisp apples, fresh spinach, and dried cranberries, tossed in a tangy homemade poppyseed dressing. Perfect for fall gatherings!
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 245
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 10 ounces fresh baby spinach (or other favorite green)
  • 1.5 cups uncooked pasta (choose your favorite shape, such as rotini or bowtie)
  • 3 stalks celery (chopped)
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 2 medium apples (Fuji, cut into thin slices)
  • 1 lemon juiced
  • 1/2 cup pecans
  • 1 can mandarin oranges (15 ounces, liquid drained)
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
  • 4 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
  • Salt (to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon poppy seeds

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small Bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Guide
  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  2. Prepare the dressing by blending the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, sugar, orange juice, orange zest, and salt until smooth. Stir in the poppy seeds and set aside.
  3. Toss the apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning, then drain the lemon juice.
  4. Combine the apple slices, celery, cranberries, and pecans in a large bowl.
  5. In another bowl, mix the cooked pasta, mandarin oranges, and half of the dressing. Toss well to coat.
  6. Add the pasta mixture and spinach to the apple and cranberry mixture in the large bowl. Drizzle with the remaining dressing and toss gently to combine.
  7. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness of the salad.

Nutrition

Calories: 245kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 5gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 1.5gSodium: 175mgPotassium: 210mgFiber: 4gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1.8mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate to avoid soggy spinach. This salad is best enjoyed fresh and doesn't freeze well.
Nutrition information is estimated based on common ingredients and serving sizes and may vary.

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