Merken Discover the refreshing taste of our Lemony White Bean Chicken Salad, a Mediterranean-inspired dish that is as nutritious as it is delicious. With 20 minutes of preparation and 20 minutes of cooking, this high-protein, gluten-free meal is perfect for a light lunch or a summery main course that won't weigh you down.
Merken This salad is designed to be versatile and bright, featuring a harmonious blend of textures from creamy cannellini beans to crisp celery and juicy cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients
- Proteins: 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed), 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed.
- Vegetables: 2 celery stalks (finely diced), 1/4 red onion (finely diced), 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved, optional).
- Fresh Herbs: 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped), 2 tbsp fresh dill (chopped, or 1 tbsp dried dill).
- Vinaigrette: 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tsp lemon zest, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 garlic clove (minced), 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper.
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, white beans, celery, red onion, cherry tomatoes (if using), parsley, and dill.
- Step 2
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- Step 3
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Gently toss to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Step 4
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 5
- Let the salad rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To achieve the best flavor, ensure you let the salad rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to fully absorb the lemon vinaigrette. If you are using store-bought beans or mustard, double-check the labels for any hidden allergens like sulfites or gluten.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra beans or diced avocado for a boost of healthy fats. You can also increase your intake of greens by serving the mixture over a bed of arugula or baby spinach.
Serviervorschläge
This salad is excellent when served with a side of crusty bread or on a fresh bed of lettuce. To elevate the meal, pair it with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a chilled glass of rosé.
Merken Each of the 4 servings provides 320 calories, 27g of protein, and 14g of fat, making it a balanced choice for a healthy lifestyle. Enjoy this vibrant dish chilled or at room temperature!
