Do I hear the doorbell?

If my doorbell was working, I would have heard it tonight. Due to my post earlier this month about how I long to have guests over more often, we had some over tonight. It was so nice to visit with our friends and enjoy a nice meal.

I worked hard to get my new pretties in place and have the rest of the house nice and tidy. Y'all, it looks so pretty. It smells good, too. I love to burn tarts to make my house smell nice when I have people over to visit.

This is what we had for dinner:


It's called Southwestern Chicken and Bean Pasta. It is very yummy and it makes enough for a crowd. I have tons leftover. Anyone want to come over for lunch tomorrow and help me finish this off?

After I took the picture, I realized that the chicken looks a little gross sitting up there on top. It would have been better for me to have mixed it in before I took the picture. It is a really pretty dish, I promise. Also in the picture is a bowl of Hot Tamale candies. We love them and so do our guests, so I had to get them. There are also chips (duh!) and the new Tostado's Southwestern Salsa dip stuff. It is SO good. I could have eaten that all by itself and been happy. Bloated, but happy.

So, do you want the recipe for Southwestern Chicken and Bean Pasta? I found it on someones blog before I entered bloggy world. Sorry, I have no idea who to credit for this. If it is you, then bless you. It is a new favorite in my home.

Southwestern Chicken and Bean Pasta

4 chicken breasts cooked and sliced
12oz pkg elbow macaroni, cooked per package directions
1/2 red onion, chopped
1-2 bunches green onion, chopped (I do 1, original directions calls for 2)
2 medium tomatoes, chopped
1/2 medium red pepper, chopped
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 small can sliced black olives, drained
1 cup corn (if canned, drained)
1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
1 cup sour cream
3 tbs lime juice (I use fresh)
2 tbs olive oil
1 packet taco seasoning

-- Combine all produce (fresh and canned) with pasta, toss until mixed
-- You can finish one of two ways
Option 1 (creamy sauce)
combine sour cream, lime juice, oil and taco seasoning with pasta mixture, stir over med heat until warmed through, top with chicken and serve
Option 2 (tangy sauce) This is the way I prepare the dish
Combine lime juice, olive oil, and taco seasoning, combine with pasta and chicken. Serve with sour cream on top or side.

Let me know if you try this one. I am one that is easily intimidated by a long list of ingredients, but I love this dish. I love to prepare it. I love the smells and the taste is awesome.