Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Our Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette—a symphony of flavors and textures designed to delight your palate and nourish your body, begins with succulent boneless, skinless chicken breasts, perfectly grilled to tender perfection.
The Lemon Vinaigrette, a harmonious blend of extra-virgin olive oil, lemon zest, juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper, is the crowning glory. Its zesty and tangy notes tie all the ingredients together, elevating the salad to a symphony of taste.
Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and cooked
- 4 cups mixed greens (e.g., spinach, arugula, or kale)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
For the Lemon Vinaigrette
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Interesting Facts about Kalamata Olives
Nestled in the sun-drenched groves of Kalamata, Greece, these olives have a storied history that echoes through time. Cultivated for centuries, Kalamata olives bear witness to the rich tapestry of Mediterranean culinary traditions. Recognized by their almond shape, deep purple hue, and distinct flavor, these olives are a testament to the artistry of Greek agriculture.
Kalamata olives have been integral to Greek gastronomy, often playing a starring role in salads, mezze platters, and savory dishes. Their production involves careful curing and brining, enhancing their robust flavor profile and giving them a unique texture. The olives’ rich, fruity taste with a hint of bitterness has made them a favorite among food enthusiasts worldwide.
Beyond their culinary appeal, Kalamata olives offer a treasure trove of health benefits. They are a source of monounsaturated fats, the heart-healthy fats known to reduce levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol. Additionally, these olives contain vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative stress.
In the realm of mental health, the gut-brain connection has gained prominence. A healthy gut is linked to improved mood, reduced stress, and enhanced cognitive function. Kalamata olives, being part of the Mediterranean diet, contribute to gut health. The monounsaturated fats in these olives support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, fostering a balanced and thriving gut microbiome.
When incorporated into salads like our Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Salad, Kalamata olives not only add a burst of flavor but also contribute to the overall well-being of both the body and mind. The combination of nutrient-rich ingredients and the gut-friendly properties of these olives creates a holistic approach to health.
So, as you savor the distinct taste of Kalamata olives in your salad, know that you’re not just indulging in a culinary delight; you’re embracing a tradition that spans generations and contributing to the well-being of both your body and mind.
Tragano Greek Organics Pitted Kalamata Olives
-A nutritious part of the Mediterranean diet, these olives deliver a tasty dose of healthy fats, fiber and vitamins
-Versatile & Easy to Use – Add pitted Kalamata olives to salads, serve as snacks, feature in your cocktails or eat them all by themselves
-Single Origin – Grown on a single estate and hand selected with minimal processing for the true flavor of Greece.
Here's a Few To Get You Started
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Instructions:
- Grill the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Grill over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side or until cooked through.
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes, then slice it into thin strips.
- Prepare the Lemon Vinaigrette:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives.
- Add the grilled chicken strips on top.
- Drizzle with Lemon Vinaigrette:
- Pour the prepared Lemon Vinaigrette over the salad.
- Toss the salad gently to ensure all ingredients are well-coated with the dressing.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish the salad with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Note: Adjust salt and pepper in the vinaigrette according to your taste preferences.
Nutrition Tip:
This culinary masterpiece isn’t just about pleasure for the taste buds—it’s a nutritious powerhouse. Lean protein from the grilled chicken, coupled with the complete protein profile of quinoa, makes this salad a satisfying and sleep-friendly option. The fresh vegetables offer a spectrum of vitamins and minerals, while Kalamata olives contribute heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
Whether you’re seeking a light lunch or a wholesome dinner, this Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Salad is a delightful choice. Its nutrient-rich composition caters to your well-being, providing a balanced and flavorful meal. Serve it on warm evenings, and let the burst of flavors transport you to the sun-kissed landscapes of the Mediterranean.
This salad, rich in lean protein, fiber, and vitamins, makes for a satisfying and sleep-friendly meal. The combination of quinoa and grilled chicken provides a balanced source of tryptophan, promoting better sleep. The fresh vegetables and olives contribute to the salad’s nutrient density, making it a delicious and healthful choice for any time of the day.
Disclaimer: The information and/or products mentioned in this article are provided as information resources only and are not to be used or relied on to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The statements made in this article have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Any products mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, but rather to be considered as an informational resource only to encourage critical thinking and personal research. The information in this article is intended for educational purposes only. The information is not intended to replace medical advice offered by licensed medical physicians. Please consult your doctor or health care practitioner for any and all medical advice.
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