Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Spain right to your table? Our Spanish Style Chicken Salad with Roasted Pepper Dressing is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey that combines the heartiness of shredded chicken with the freshness of mixed greens and the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers. Perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner, this salad is a feast for the eyes and the palate! With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a delightful dish that will impress your family and friends. Dive into this recipe and discover how to elevate your salad game!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup mixed greens
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the ingredients. If you haven't done so already, cook the chicken by boiling, grilling, or baking until fully cooked, then shred it into bite-sized pieces. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you are roasting fresh red peppers. If using jarred roasted red peppers, skip this step.
- If you are roasting fresh red peppers, place them on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skins are blistered and charred. Remove from the oven and let them cool. Once cooled, peel off the skins, remove the seeds, and slice the peppers into strips.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mixed greens, sliced roasted red peppers, and sliced olives. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
- In a separate small bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Drizzle the dressing over the chicken salad mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated with the dressing.
- Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve the salad in individual bowls or on a large platter. Optionally, garnish with additional olives or roasted red pepper strips for a beautiful presentation.
- Enjoy your Spanish Style Chicken Salad with Roasted Pepper Dressing as a light lunch or a refreshing dinner option!
Tips
- Use Leftover Chicken: To save time, consider using leftover rotisserie chicken. It’s a great way to add flavor without the extra cooking time!
- Roasting Red Peppers: If you choose to roast fresh red peppers, keep an eye on them in the oven. The skins should be blistered and charred for the best flavor. Don’t forget to let them cool before peeling!
- Mixing Greens: Feel free to customize your mixed greens. Spinach, arugula, or even kale can add a different texture and taste to your salad.
- Dressing Variations: Experiment with the dressing by adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a dash of smoked paprika for an extra kick.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the salad to sit for about 5 minutes after tossing with the dressing helps the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Presentation Matters: For a stunning presentation, serve the salad in a large bowl and garnish with additional olives or red pepper strips. It makes for an eye-catching centerpiece!Enjoy making this delicious and colorful salad that’s sure to become a favorite!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 400kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 110mg
