Sesame Chicken Pasta Salad

Source: Vicky’s Kitchen

Why I Like It: I’ve shared this recipe numerous times! Everyone asks for it. It’s a great dish to bring to a BBQ or other family function because it's different from the typical pasta salad. Sometimes I make it without the chicken as a side dish. Add sugar snap peas for crunch and color!

Ingredients:
1/4 cup sesame seeds
1 (16 ounce) box of bow tie pasta
1/2 cup vegetable oil (I use a combo of peanut oil / olive oil.)
1/3 cup soy sauce
1/3 cup rice wine vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
3 teaspoons white sugar
1/2 teaspoon dry ginger (substitute with fresh if possible!)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 cups chicken, cooked and diced
1/3 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/3 cup green onions, chopped

Directions:
Heat skillet, add sesame seeds and toast. Set aside. Cook pasta 8 - 10 minutes or as directed on box. Transfer pasta to a large bowl. In a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine vegetable oil, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, sesame seeds, ginger, and pepper. Shake well. Pour dressing over pasta and toss to coat. Add chicken, cilantro and green onions. Toss and serve at room temperature.


Photo: Jade, 1 year old