You will need:
3 Tbs. hot water
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
1/3 cup crumbled blue cheese
1/3 cup dried cranberries
2 cups cooked chicken, diced (optional)

In a small bowl combine dressing mix with hot water. Stir well to dissolve and let stand for 15 minutes. Add oil and stir until emulsified. Refrigerate dressing while boiling pasta.

In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of water to a boil. Add pasta to boiling water and cook for 6-8 minutes. Do not overcook – pasta should be quite firm for salads. Drain pasta and rinse under cold water. Toss dressing, pasta and remaining ingredients together. Chill for 1 hour.

Serves eight.