Recipe: Crunchy Turkey (or Chicken) Salad (using almonds and chow mein noodles)

CRUNCHY TURKEY SALAD

"My friend Cheryle gave this recipe to me several years ago," recalls Chris. "It's a big hit whether I serve it as a main dish or as a side salad without the turkey or chicken. "

FOR THE DRESSING:
1/3 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons white vinegar
3 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
FOR THE SALAD:
1 large head Bibb lettuce
2 cups diced cooked turkey or chicken (about 3/4 pound)
2 scallions, sliced
1 cup sliced almonds
1 cup chow mein noodles (like La Choy)

In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, vinegar, sugar, poppy seeds and pepper; set aside.

Clean lettuce and chop; you should have about 8 cups. Transfer to a medium-size bowl and add turkey, scallions, almonds and noodles. Toss with dressing and serve immediately.

DO AHEAD TIP:
Place the chopped Bibb lettuce in a serving bowl, top it with damp paper towels and refrigerate until ready to toss.

Makes 4 servings
Source: Chris Vollmer, Toledo, OH in Family Circle magazine, August 2007