Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, crispy vegetables, and crunchy cashews, all tossed in a flavorful dressing. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner and is packed with protein and nutrients, making it a great choice for a healthy meal.

Ingredients List

For the Salad

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced)
• 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, spinach, and arugula)
• 1 cup red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• 1 cup cucumber (sliced)
• 1/2 cup carrots (shredded)
• 1/2 cup green onions (sliced)
• 1 cup cashews (lightly toasted)
• Optional: 1/2 cup mandarin oranges (drained)

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• Optional: 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Timing

Preparing Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad takes about 20 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

1. Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic until well combined.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad

1. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, add the mixed salad greens, cooked chicken, red bell pepper, cucumber, shredded carrots, green onions, and mandarin oranges (if using).
2. Add Cashews: Toss in the toasted cashews for crunch.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

1. Drizzle Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are coated.

Step 4: Serve

1. Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad (per serving, assuming 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	30g
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	15g
Fiber	3g

Tips for Customization

• Add More Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like snap peas, bell peppers, or shredded cabbage for added nutrition and color.
• Protein Variations: Substitute chicken with grilled shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas for a different protein source.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the dressing for some heat.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If storing, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Conclusion

Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad is a flavorful and nutritious meal that combines a variety of textures and tastes. It’s perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner, and it’s sure to please everyone at the table!

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the salad ingredients in advance, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the greens fresh.

What can I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or as a side dish with grilled meats.

Is this salad gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.