Bitsys Kitchen. Hot Macaroni Salad

Hot Macaroni Salad
2 cups cooked, drained macaroni 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell peppers 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions including tops 1/2 cup finely chopped celery 1/4 cup chopped pimientos 1 can (6 oz.) sliced mushrooms, drained 1 can (4 oz.) chopped mild green chilies 2 teaspoons lemon juice	1 can (10 3/4 oz.) condensed. cream of mushroom soup 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup grated low fat cheddar cheese 1 can (6 oz.) tuna in water, drained 1/8 teaspoon paprika 1/3 cup crushed cracker crumbs

This dish, with a salad and garlic toast, makes a family favorite meal. It is cooked at a temperature comparable to the way it would be cooked conventionally. For example, Medium high power (70%) is like a 350 degree conventional oven. Also, chicken or turkey may easily be substituted for the tuna. For a special treat, add 1/2 cup sliced almonds, 1/8 teaspoon thyme and 1/8 teaspoon marjoram.

Place macaroni in large mixing bowl. Cook onion, green pepper and celery, covered, in microwave casserole for 1-3 minutes on High power (100%). Add pimientos, mushrooms and chilies. Mix vegetables and all other remaining ingredients, except for paprika and crumbs, with macaroni. Put in 8 x 12 inch casserole, partially covered. Microwave for 20-30 minutes on Medium high power (70%) until bubbly hot. Sprinkle with cracker crumbs while standing.