The ‘Surprise Guests’ Summer Salad!

Try serving this gorgeous salad when guests pay a surprise visit this summer.  It’s perfect for impromptu parties because it takes just 15 minutes to make.  I love the way it tastes and looks with its delicious layers of sweet, sour and crunchy!   Add a fresh loaf of country bread and you have a hearty lunch or lite dinner.  The recipe comes from the Betty Crocker website, which is full of great ideas for everything from sides to dessert. Enjoy!

Summer Layered Chicken Salad – PREP TIME 15 Min – TOTAL TIME 15 Min – SERVINGS 6

Ingredients

Salad

• 7 cups torn romaine lettuce (from 1 head)
• 2 packages (9 oz each) frozen fully cooked chicken breast strips (not breaded), thawed (4 cups)
• 1 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese (about 4 oz) – *I like Feta
• 1 cup pecan halves (4 oz)
• 1 quart fresh strawberries, quartered (3 cups)

Dressing

• 1/3 cup olive or vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, finely chopped

Directions

1. In deep 3-quart salad bowl, place half of the lettuce. Layer with chicken, cheese, pecan halves, remaining lettuce and strawberries.
2. In small bowl or glass measuring cup, mix dressing ingredients with wire whisk until well blended. Just before serving, pour dressing over salad.