Healthy Salad Recipe

Healthy Salad Recipe: Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing

Servings: 4-6 Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes Ingredients: For the salad: - 1 cup cooked quinoa - 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce) - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cup sliced cucumber - 1 cup sliced carrots - 1/2 cup sliced red onion - 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional) - 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley - 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint - 1/2 cup sliced grilled chicken breast (see cooking instructions below) For the lemon-tahini dressing: - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice - 1 tablespoon tahini - 1 garlic clove, minced - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - 2 tablespoons olive oil

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Instructions: *Step 1: Cook the Quinoa* Rinse the quinoa in a fine mesh strainer and drain well. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the quinoa, cover, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set aside. *Step 2: Grill the Chicken* Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano). Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly. *Step 3: Prepare the Salad* In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, carrots, red onion, and feta cheese (if using). *Step 4: Make the Lemon-Tahini Dressing* In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, tahini, garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking the dressing until it's creamy and emulsified. *Step 5: Assemble the Salad* Add the cooked quinoa, sliced grilled chicken, and chopped parsley and mint to the bowl with the salad. Drizzle the lemon-tahini dressing over the salad and toss to combine. *Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!* Serve the salad immediately, garnished with additional parsley and mint if desired. Tips and Variations: - Use leftover cooked chicken or turkey if you prefer. - Substitute other grains like brown rice, farro, or bulgur for the quinoa. - Add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or avocado to the salad. - Use different herbs and spices to change up the flavor of the salad. - Make the salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Nutrition Information (per serving): - Calories: 420 - Protein: 35g - Fat: 20g - Saturated Fat: 3.5g - Cholesterol: 60mg - Carbohydrates: 30g - Fiber: 5g - Sugar: 5g - Sodium: 250mg

This healthy salad recipe is a delicious and nutritious way to fuel your body. The quinoa provides a boost of protein and fiber, while the grilled chicken adds lean protein. The lemon-tahini dressing adds a creamy and tangy flavor without adding excess calories. Enjoy!

For more articles visit healthy recipes and cooking methods.