Ingredients
- A package of penne pasta weighing 16 ounces
- 1 ½ cups of cubed chicken that has been cooked
- Chopped celery from 2 stalks
- A generous cup of dried cranberries
- 4 green onions, finely chopped
- A creamy poppy seed salad dressing amounting to 1 ½ cups
- 2 teaspoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
Step 1
Begin by bringing a generously salted large pot of water to a lively boil. Toss in the penne pasta and let it dance in the bubbling water until it reaches the perfect al dente texture, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once ready, drain the pasta and give it a refreshing rinse under cold water until it feels cool to the touch. Make sure to drain it thoroughly.
Step 2
Now, transfer the cooled penne pasta into a spacious mixing bowl and get ready to create a vibrant medley. Combine the tender chicken, crisp celery, juicy cranberries, and fresh green onions with the pasta. Next, drizzle in the salad dressing and a splash of zesty lemon juice. Gently mix everything together until all the flavors harmonize beautifully. Feel free to garnish with some additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an extra burst of flavor.
Extra Tips & Suggestions
- 1. Keep your pasta fresh and ready to use by storing it in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry place.
- 2. Store your cooked chicken in the fridge in an airtight container to maintain its flavor and texture.
- 3. Preserve the zesty flavor of the lemon dressing by storing it in a glass bottle in the fridge.
