Gluten Free Macaroni Salad

It has been 6 months since I have blogged. I must admit that I really have not missed it. Next week, we will start a new adventure in my home....I will begin homeschooling my daughters! This will be quite an adjustment. I hope to blog more this next year..about homeschooling and adding more gluten free recipes.

For this macaroni salad, I used Tinkyada brand Brown Rice Penne Pasta. This pasta does not get mushy, like some gluten free pastas can. I only measure the dressing ingredients. For the rest, just throw in however much you like.



Gluten Free Macaroni Salad

1 16 oz bag Tinkyada Brown Rice Penne Pasta, cooked according to package..rinse in cold water and drain thoroughly

Chopped green pepper, red pepper, celery

6 slices crispy, crumbled bacon

Frozen peas

diced cheddar cheese

For the Dressing

3/4 cup mayo..I use Hellman's because it says "Gluten free" on the bottle

1 T mustard

a little salt and pepper to taste

1 T apple cider vinegar

1/3 cup sugar

Mix all the dressing ingredients well

Combine it all in a big bowl (makes a lot), chill and enjoy!

Fruity Curried Chicken Salad

When I first began blogging, I mentioned that much of my cooking was measurement free. This is one of those recipes. I am trying to eat better and have been bored with sandwiches for lunch. The other day I thought I'd go in the kitchen and whip up some chicken salad. This is different from the traditional southern chicken salad that I normally make...with eggs, and homemade sweet pickle. This turned out so delicious.. I will be making it in a larger portion soon!

One small can chicken breast
1-2 TBSP light mayonnaise (start w/ one tbsp and add more if needed)
not quite 1/4 tsp curry powder
craisins
diced apple
chopped celery
toasted chopped pecans
Fresh spinach

Add as much as you like of the fruit, celery, nuts and curry powder. Its all a personal preference. Mix it all together. Layer some fresh spinach leaves on a plate and spoon chicken salad over spinach. So good!!