RAINBOW CHICKEN SALAD

When I go through the produce aisle at the grocery store, I’m usually looking at all the various fruits and veggies trying to decide how each one will fit with the others and what I can pair with it. I also like to try new things, especially if they will make my life easier, so I’m happy to see lots of veggie noodles on the market these days.

If you try to eat a healthy diet, you’ve probably tried veggies noodles in some form or another, probably zucchini noodles, but you can make noodles out of a variety of veggies, from sweet potatoes and winter squash, to beets, to turnips, to carrots and broccoli. Basically any veggie you can think of, you can turn into noodles.

So, that’s what this salad is. A variety of brightly colored noodles, a few other veggies, tossed with some chicken, almonds, and a delectable dressing that will keep your stomach full and your taste buds happy. If you have ever thought you couldn’t enjoy a bowl full of veggies, you are sorely mistaken.

The main thing when working with veggie noodles is that you want them to be crisp and firm and not soggy and limp. You do this with an ingredient you already have in your pantry: salt. Just lay out your noodles, sprinkle with salt and let them sit for a good 15 minutes. Then pat dry with paper towels, and you’re good to go. You’ll be amazed at how much water comes out of them.

As far as how you get the noodles? Well, that’s up to you. If you have one of those fancy spiralizers, by all means use it — it will definitely be the cheapest way to get your veggie noodle (voodle?) fix. A julienne peeler will also work. But you may just head to the produce department at your grocery store and see what’s there, because even if you’re in a remote area, you might be surprised what you find.