I first tasted this salad at a potluck. Since then I've served it several times at brunches, dinners, etc. If you're thinking of a salad, this always garners compliments and is easy to make:

Island Chicken Salad

4 - 5 cups Cooked chicken, diced (marinated in a curry or honey mustard marinade then sautéed is best)

20 oz. can Pineapple tidbits, well drained

1 cup Celery, sliced

2 cups Thompson and/or red seedless grapes. cut in half

8 oz. can Sliced black olives

1/2 cup Green onion, sliced (I used 1/3 cup)

2 cups Small elbow macaroni (cooked) Optional

Dressing:

3/4 cup Mayonnaise (More if adding pasta)

1/4 cup Miracle Whip (or omit and add 1/4 cup more mayo)

2 tbsp. Fresh lemon juice

2 tbsp. Soy sauce

2 tbsp. Mango chutney

2 teas. Curry powder (or to taste)

Mix dressing. Toss with first seven ingredients and chill overnight.

Serves 8-10 as main dish (if pasta is used). Can be doubled or halved.

Thanks Azure, I printed this one up and will try it out this weekend on my hubby before I try it at my event.

LOL

I, too, always try a recipe out on husband before I make it for company! Smart...

have you thought about doing a clam bake? ina garten did a great one in her kitchen on her barefoot contessa show. couldn't find that recipe but here's emeril's:

http://tinyurl.com/4cgadp

some other ideas:

cioppino

paella

all of these are great for large groups, you can get most of the work done before everyone gets there.

Try the website for Cooking Light magazine. Tons of options.