Bring a touch of the Mediterranean to your table with this hearty and vibrant chicken and avocado salad. Packed with the robust flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese, and topped with a creamy dressing, this salad is not only fulfilling but also bursts with a delightful mix of textures. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch or a light, nutritious dinner, this recipe promises to deliver both taste and health benefits.
Ingredients:
Salad:
- 2-4 cups shredded chicken
- 1 avocado, sliced
- ½ red onion, sliced
- ½ cup halved kalamata olives
- One 12-ounce jar of julienned sun-dried tomatoes, drained and rinsed
- ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup pine nuts, optional (toasted for extra flavor)
Dressing:
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (0% fat for a lighter option)
- ¼ cup reduced-fat mayo (or substitute with extra Greek yogurt for a healthier twist)
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried dill (or ¼ cup chopped fresh dill)
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- Juice of ½ lemon
Directions:
- Prepare the Salad Components: In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, sliced avocado, red onion, kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted pine nuts (if using).
- Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl or a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine olive oil, Greek yogurt, mayo, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried dill, sugar, white wine vinegar, and lemon juice. Whisk or shake vigorously to create a smooth and creamy dressing.
- Combine and Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure everything is well-coated. Adjust the seasoning as needed by adding more salt or lemon juice.
- Chilling (Optional): For best flavor, you can chill the salad briefly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions:
This salad is perfect as a standalone meal thanks to its rich content of proteins and healthy fats, or it can serve as an impressive side dish at your next barbecue or family gathering. Pair it with crusty bread or a light, crisp white wine for a complete Mediterranean experience.
Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Calories: 350 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4
Conclusion:
This Mediterranean Chicken and Avocado Salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treasure trove of flavors and textures. With its combination of creamy, tangy, and crunchy elements, it’s a versatile dish that fits beautifully into any meal plan. Enjoy the health benefits and delicious taste of this quick and easy-to-make salad any day of the week!
