A Honey of a Pasta Fruit Salad

A Honey of a Pasta Fruit Salad


1-1/2 cups dried rotini (spiral-shaped pasta)( I like to use Orzo better. I think the tiny pasta is less overpowering)
1/2 cup raisins
1 cup halved seedless grapes
2 or 3 peeled peaches or nectarines, chopped
1/2 cup sliced celery
1/4 cup toasted chopped walnuts
1/2 of an 8-ounce tub cream cheese
1/4 cup vanilla or plain low-fat yogurt
2 or 3 tablespoons honey
1/2 teaspoon shredded lemon peel
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons whipping cream

Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and cool.

Meanwhile, plump raisins, if you like: In a large bowl, pour boiling water over raisins. Let stand for 5 minutes. Drain thoroughly.

Add grapes, peaches or nectarines, celery, walnuts, and cooled pasta to drained raisins.

For dressing, in a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, yogurt, honey, lemon peel, and lemon juice. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until nearly smooth and well mixed. Stir in whipping cream.

Pour dressing over pasta mixture; stir to coat. Cover and chill for 2 to 6 hours. If necessary, stir in a little milk to moisten the salad before serving. Makes 8 side-dish servings.