Mandarin Pasta Salad

So... I am aware that this is a "summer salad", but it is seriously scrumptious!

Plus all of these ingredients are easily accessible year round.

Make it.  You will not be disappointed!

Mandarin Pasta Salad
Recipe from Confessions of a Bake-a-Holic
Dressing

1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
1 clove garlic, diced
1/3 c. rice vinegar
1/4 c. orange juice
1/4 c. vegetable oil
1 tsp. sesame oil
1 envelope Lipton onion soup mix
2 tsp. sugar
Mix well and refrigerate.
Salad
8 oz bowtie pasta, cooked
1/2 of a cucumber, diced
1/2 c. diced red bell pepper
1/2 c. chopped red onion
6 oz. baby spinach
11 oz can mandarin oranges, well drained
1/2 c. sliced almonds, toasted (350 for 8 minutes)
Toasted sesame seeds.
 
Toss together.
Pour all of the dressing over entire salad or serve on the side (do the latter if you plan to have leftovers).