CHICKEN CASHEW PASTA SALAD

RECIPES THAT MAKE YOUR EYES LIGHT UP AND YOUR STOMACH SAY, "HOWDY!"

Who says you can't enjoy a delicious cold chicken salad in December or that it won't taste as good as it would in July? Not me! This wonderful salad is good any time of the year and for any occasion. The first time I was served this salad, I definitely knew it was a recipe I wanted to have and to use whenever I needed something that would look good, be easy to make and make me look like a first-class hostess. It would seem that the combination of ingredients would not go together at all but, in fact, they compliment each other perfectly. You can fudge a little and change a few of the ingredients, but don't mess with the recipe too much because it's perfect the way it is. For example, in place of the cashews you can use almonds, but the cashews are simply better. In place of the green onions, you could use a red onion, but I prefer the green. Also, in place of iceberg lettuce you cold use romaine or spinach or whichever kind of salad greens that you prefer, but other than that you should pretty much leave well-enough alone. Here is how it's done:

1. Bring a pot of salted water to boil.

2. Add 3 C. dry rotini pasta. I think the garden variety is better only because it's more colorful. Cook until soft, then drain well. Put into a large bowl.

3. To this add 1/2 C. roasted cashews.

3. Add 2 C. chopped apples. Any kind will do, but I like a good sweet apple like red or golden delicious. Granny Smith apples might be a little too tart, but you can use them if that's what you like.

4. Add to this 1/2 C. chopped green onion.

5. Add 1 1/2 C. chopped celery.

6. Add 1/2 C. dried cranberries. You can use split green or red grapes if you would rather, but again, I think the cranberries are much better (and easier!)

7. Add to this 1 can white chicken breast, drained.

8. Finally add 1 can of pineapple tidbits or crushed pineapple, either one. I think the tidbits work better and definitely make the salad look better.

9. Add 1/2 bottle of coleslaw salad dressing (more or less to taste) and toss together well.

10. Wash and chop some lettuce or spinach and put on plates. Put the chicken and pasta mixture on top. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve with rolls, fresh bread or whatever tastes and looks good. This is a perfect "ladies luncheon" salad or one that you can use to feed a large crowd. With rolls, dessert and a fancy drink it is a perfect light meal. Serves 4-6. Enjoy!
There you go!