Description
Try this delicious grilled chicken and avocado garden salad! A fresh, healthy mix of greens, grilled chicken, and creamy avocado – perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, romaine) – These provide a crunchy base and a wealth of vitamins.
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes – Sweet and juicy, these add a burst of flavor and vibrant color.
- 1 ripe diced avocado – Rich in healthy fats, avocados provide creaminess and nutrients such as potassium and Vitamin E.
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots – These add natural sweetness and a lovely crunch.
- 1 sliced cucumber – Cool and refreshing, cucumbers hydrate the salad.
- 1 cup sliced grilled chicken tenderloin – A lean protein option, grilled chicken complements the fresh veggies wonderfully.
- 2 quartered hard-boiled eggs – These contribute additional protein and richness.
- 1/2 cup fresh or grilled corn kernels – Sweet corn introduces summer flavors and adds a pleasant texture.
- 1/4 thinly sliced red onion – Providing a mild sharpness, red onion brightens the salad.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or blue cheese (optional) – A touch of cheese enhances the overall flavor profile, but feel free to omit for dairy-free options.
For the dressing:
- Juice of 1 lime – Offers a zesty kick and balances flavors.
- 1/4 cup olive oil – A key ingredient that adds richness and helps emulsify the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup – A hint of sweetness that complements the tangy lime.
- 1 minced garlic clove – Garlic introduces a robust flavor, amplifying the dressing’s taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for enhancing the flavors of each ingredient.
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional) – Adds depth and a touch of creaminess to the dressing.
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients: Start by washing the 4 cups mixed salad greens thoroughly and spin them dry. Halve the 1 cup cherry tomatoes and dice the 1 ripe avocado. Splash the diced avocado with lime juice to prevent browning. Then, slice the 1 cucumber and shred the 1/2 cup carrots. If not done already, grill and slice the 1 cup grilled chicken tenderloin and hard-boil the 2 eggs. Lastly, thinly slice the 1/4 red onion.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, layer the ingredients. Start with the mixed greens at the bottom, then add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, grilled chicken, quartered hard-boiled eggs, corn kernels, and sliced red onion. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it over the top.
- Whisk the dressing: In a separate small bowl, combine the juice of 1 lime, 1/4 cup olive oil, 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup, 1 minced garlic clove, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you wish to use it, add 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard for an extra flavor boost. Whisk this mixture until well incorporated.
- Dress and toss: Drizzle the dressing over the assembled salad. Toss gently to combine all ingredients delicately, ensuring the dressing coats every element. Avoid squashing the avocado and tomatoes.
- Serve immediately: Once coated, your salad is ready for enjoyment! Serve fresh for the best texture and flavor.