Asian Pasta Salad

This is amazing. You have to try it!!! I don't usually love pasta salad, but this is to die for!

Cook 16 oz bowtie noodles.

Dressing:
1/2 c canola oil
2/3 c teriyaki sauce
1/2 c white wine vinegar
4 T sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper

1/2 bag spinach ( I usually add more the next day)
1 c craisins
2 cans mandarin oranges drained
1 bunch green onions
1 bunch cilantro chopped
1/4 c toasted sesame seeds (you have to toast them yourself in the oven. sometimes I skip this step)
1 c honey roasted peanuts
2 c chicken (or leave this out for a lighter salad)

Mix dressing and pasta. Chill for at least 4 hours. It will be soupy if you don't. Add the rest and toss together before serving. This is a big recipe, so be prepared to give some away or eat it all week! Enjoy!

Layered Mexican Chicken Bake

My sister found this recipe on Picky Palate. I take no credit for it, other than trying it and loving it. There are more pictures on Picky Palate website. This picture is from there!

2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 medium white onion, finely chopped

1 anaheim chili pepper (it’s mild), finely diced

1 1/2 Cups chopped sweet peppers

1 1/2 Tablespoons minced fresh garlic

4 Cups cooked/steamed rice (Not minute rice. I use brown rice.)

1 Tablespoon ground cumin

2 Cups cooked shredded chicken breast (Can use canned chicken)

1/4 teaspoon Garlic Salt

1/2 teaspoon dry Ranch Dressing Seasoning (I buy a big container of this from Costco instead of the packets)

1/2 Cup prepared Salsa

1 can corn, drained

1 can black beans, drained

1/2 Cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped

1 Cup shredded cheddar cheese

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Place oil into a large skillet over medium heat. Saute onion and peppers for about 5 minutes or until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute. Stir in cooked rice and cumin, reduce heat to low. Transfer mixed rice to a 9×13 inch baking dish.

2. Place chicken breast into a medium skillet over medium heat. Season with garlic salt, ranch seasoning and salsa; mix and reduce heat to low.

3.Pour corn over rice. Next layer the beans, cilantro, chicken and top with cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted.