Cashew Chicken Rotini Salad

The Cashew Chicken Rotini Salad is one of those dishes that brings back fond memories of summer barbecues and family gatherings. I remember the first time I made this salad for a picnic; the sun was shining, and the laughter of friends surrounded me. As I tossed the vibrant ingredients together, I couldn’t help but feel excited about how the crunchy cashews and juicy grapes would complement the tender chicken. This recipe quickly became a staple at our outdoor events, perfectly capturing the essence of fresh, flavorful ingredients.

The beauty of the Cashew Chicken Rotini Salad lies in its simplicity. With just a few key ingredients, you can create a dish that’s not only visually appealing but also bursts with flavor. The combination of rotini, grapes, dried cranberries, and a creamy dressing creates a delightful harmony that satisfies every palate. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for an easy weeknight meal, this salad never fails to impress.

What I love most about the Cashew Chicken Rotini Salad is its versatility. You can easily customize it to fit your preferences by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping the chicken for something else. This makes it an excellent option for gatherings, where everyone can find something to enjoy. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company around you.

So, if you’re searching for a dish that’s perfect for any occasion, look no further than the Cashew Chicken Rotini Salad. It’s a recipe that invites creativity and joy, bringing your friends and family together with every bite.

Cashew Chicken Rotini Salad Shopping List

The ingredients for the Cashew Chicken Rotini Salad come together to create a refreshing and satisfying dish that works beautifully for any occasion. Each component plays a significant role, from the rotini that acts as the perfect base to the creamy dressing that unites the flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 16 oz rotini – This pasta shape holds onto the dressing and provides a hearty base for the salad.
• 4 cups cubed cooked chicken – Adds protein and makes the salad more filling.
• 1 cup seedless green grapes, halved – Provides a sweet and juicy contrast.
• 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved – Adds color and sweetness to the mix.
• 5 oz dried cranberries – Offers a chewy texture and tart sweetness.
• 1 cup ranch salad dressing – The creamy element that brings everything together.
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise – Enhances the creaminess and flavor profile.
• 2 cups salted cashews – Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.

Cooking Instructions for Cashew Chicken Rotini Salad

Making the Cashew Chicken Rotini Salad is a breeze and so rewarding. Follow these simple steps to whip up this delightful dish. You’ll be amazed by how quickly it comes together!

1. Start by cooking the rotini according to the package directions. Make sure to stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick. You want it to be al dente, which adds a nice bite to the salad.
2. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water. This step cools the pasta down and helps prevent it from becoming sticky. You want the rotini to stay loose for the salad.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken, halved green grapes, halved red grapes, and dried cranberries. This colorful mixture is not just beautiful but also full of flavor.
4. Add the cooled rotini to the bowl with the other ingredients. Stir gently to combine, taking care not to break the pasta.
5. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the ranch salad dressing and mayonnaise. This creamy dressing will bring all the flavors together beautifully.
6. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Make sure the rotini and the chicken are well coated with the dressing.
7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the dish.
8. Just before serving, stir in the salted cashews. This adds a delightful crunch and keeps the nuts fresh and crispy.
9. Serve the salad chilled, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures. It’s a dish that you’ll be proud to share with family and friends!

Helpful Hints

Here are some helpful hints to ensure your Cashew Chicken Rotini Salad turns out perfectly every time:

• Storage: Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh.
• Freezing: This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the creamy dressing, which may separate upon thawing.
• Pairing: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables or a light soup for a satisfying meal.
• Variations: Try adding diced bell peppers or shredded carrots for added crunch and color!
• Serving Temperature: Serve it chilled for the best flavor. The coolness complements the creamy textures perfectly.

What to Pair With Cashew Chicken Rotini Salad

When it comes to serving the Cashew Chicken Rotini Salad, there are many delicious options to complement this dish. Here are some suggestions:

• Grilled Vegetables: Pair the salad with some grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a delightful crunch.
• Fresh Bread: Serve with crusty bread or soft rolls to soak up any leftover dressing.
• Light Soups: A light soup, such as a tomato basil or vegetable broth, can be a perfect accompaniment.
• Picnic Favorites: This salad is an ideal addition to any picnic spread, alongside fresh fruit or cheese platters.
• Lunch or Dinner: It works well for both lunch and dinner. You can pack it for lunch at work or serve it as a light dinner option.
• Special Occasions: Perfect for gatherings or parties, where it can serve as a refreshing side dish.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Cashew Chicken Rotini Salad is a truly special dish that combines wonderful flavors and textures, making it a favorite for many occasions. I encourage you to try making it for your next gathering, as it’s a dish that everyone will love and talk about. Enjoy the vibrant mix of ingredients, and let it bring joy to your table!

Cashew Chicken Rotini Salad

The ultimate comfort food, Cashew Chicken Rotini Salad is a creamy and crunchy delight, perfect for warm weather. This easy weeknight dinner is bursting with fresh flavors and textures, making it a hit at any gathering. Try it tonight for a refreshing twist!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 16 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 16 oz rotini
• 4 c cubed cooked chicken
• 1 c seedless green grapes
• 1 c seedless red grapes
• 5 oz dried cranberries
• 1 c ranch salad dressing
• 3/4 c mayonnaise
• 2 c salted cashews

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Cook the pasta according to packaged directions. Drain pasta and rinse in cold water.
2. In a large bowl combine chicken, grapes and cranberries. Add pasta.
3. In a small bowl, whisk ranch dressing and mayonnaise. Pour over salad and toss to coat.
4. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour. Just before serving stir in cashews.

Notes

• Rinsing Pasta: Rinsing your cooked pasta is essential for this salad. It cools down the temperature and helps prevent the pasta from clumping together, ensuring a light and airy salad.
• Making Ahead: You can prepare the Cashew Chicken Rotini Salad the evening before. Just remember that the dressing may be absorbed, so you might want to add a little extra before serving.
• Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad will last for three to five days when properly stored, maintaining its delicious flavors.
• Customization Options: Feel free to experiment with different ingredients. You can add your favorite veggies or swap the chicken for another protein to make it your own!

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Meet Violet Lane

The Creative Spark I see the kitchen as my art studio. I love experimenting with colors and textures, and I’m usually the one asking, “What if we added this?” I encourage the team to take risks and try new flavor combinations. I love the energy of cooking with six other people it’s chaotic, colorful, and inspiring. I’m hands-on with the cooking and styling, always trying to make our plates look as artistic as they taste.