Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! Mary's Cashew Chicken Rotini Salad is not just another pasta salad – it's a culinary adventure that combines the crunch of cashews, the tenderness of chicken, and the perfect blend of creamy textures that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're planning a picnic, a quick lunch, or a refreshing dinner option, this recipe is about to become your new go-to crowd-pleaser that's both easy to prepare and impossible to resist!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups rotini pasta, cooked
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup cashews
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down. Shake off excess water and set aside.
- If using raw chicken, season with salt and pepper, then cook thoroughly in a skillet until no pink remains. Let cool and dice into small, uniform cubes.
- Finely chop the celery into small, consistent pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the salad.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini pasta, diced chicken, chopped celery, and cashews.
- Add mayonnaise to the mixture, stirring gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together and chill thoroughly.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with additional cashews if desired.
Tips
- Pasta Perfection: Always cook your rotini al dente and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This prevents mushy pasta and helps the salad maintain a great texture.
- Chicken Choice: For maximum flavor, use leftover grilled or roasted chicken, or quickly pan-sear fresh chicken with a light seasoning of herbs.
- Cashew Crunch: Lightly toast the cashews in a dry skillet for a few minutes to enhance their nutty flavor and add an extra layer of depth to the salad.
- Chill Factor: Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and creates a more cohesive dish.
- Customization: Feel free to add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or red onions for more color and crunch.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This salad actually tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or potluck gatherings!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 435kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 35mg
