Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad

Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is a vibrant dish that beautifully combines the savory flavors of the East with the sweet, tart notes of cranberries. This salad is perfect for those looking for a nutritious and satisfying meal that is both quick to prepare and delightfully different. It’s an ideal choice for a light lunch or a special side dish during gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 4 cups mixed salad greens
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• ½ cup sliced almonds
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• 2 green onions, sliced
• ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
• Dressing:
  • 3 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

Step 1:

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, salad greens, shredded carrots, sliced almonds, dried cranberries, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro.

Step 2:

For the dressing, in a small bowl whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and grated ginger. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.

Step 3:

Drizzle the dressing over the mixed salad ingredients.

Step 4:

Toss everything gently to ensure the dressing coats the salad evenly.

Step 5:

For added texture and crunch, sprinkle the salad with sesame seeds or crispy wonton strips just before serving.

Variation:

Try adding mandarin orange segments or cashew nuts for an additional burst of flavor and texture.

Cooking Note:

The key to this salad is the balance of flavors in the dressing. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or honey to cater to your personal taste.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this salad as a standalone meal or alongside other Asian-inspired dishes such as dumplings or spring rolls for a fuller menu.

Tips:

• Use freshly cooked chicken breast instead of rotisserie if preferred.
• For a vegan version, substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

0 minutes

Total Time:

10 minutes

Nutritional Information:

Calories: 320 kcal

Protein: 25g

Sodium: 620mg

FAQs:

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time? A: Yes, but add the dressing just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.

Q: Is this salad gluten-free? A: Yes, if you use tamari instead of regular soy sauce, it will be gluten-free.

Conclusion

Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is a refreshing blend of textures and flavors, making it a perfect dish for health-conscious individuals looking for a meal that is both easy to prepare and delicious. With its simple steps and versatile ingredients, this salad promises to be a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply need a quick and tasty meal option, this salad is sure to impress.