Chicken salad with almonds and green onions is a delightful dish that can easily find its place on any table. Whether for a refreshing lunch, a light dinner, or even a party appetizer, this dish is versatile, nutritious, and incredibly tasty. The fusion of tender chicken, the crunchiness of almonds, and the sharp flavor of green onions not only provide an array of textures but also a well-balanced taste profile. In this blog post, we'll explore three different ways to create this beloved recipe, ensuring there's something for everyone's taste and dietary preference.
Classic Chicken Salad with Almonds and Green Onions
The classic version of chicken salad with almonds and green onions is known for its creamy, tangy dressing. Here's how you can whip up this timeless recipe:
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- ⅓ cup almonds, toasted and slivered
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Chicken: Season and cook your chicken until it’s tender. Shred or dice it once cooled.
- Mix the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the chicken, celery, almonds, and green onions to the dressing. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are well coated.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
⭐ Note: For a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for added protein and creaminess.
Healthy and Low-Calorie Chicken Salad
Looking for a healthier version of the classic chicken salad? Here's how to keep the flavors without adding extra calories:
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- ⅓ cup almonds, toasted and slivered
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
- Mix Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Salad: Add the chicken, celery, almonds, and green onions to the dressing. Stir gently until everything is evenly mixed.
- Refrigerate: Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors develop.
🍎 Note: You can enhance the flavor by adding a handful of chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
Vegan Chicken Salad with Almonds and Green Onions
For those following a plant-based diet, here's a vegan-friendly take on chicken salad:
Ingredients:
- 1 14-ounce block of extra firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- ¼ cup vegan mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- ⅓ cup almonds, toasted and slivered
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare Tofu: After pressing the tofu to remove excess water, cube it to resemble chicken pieces.
- Mix Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder.
- Combine Salad: Add tofu, celery, almonds, and green onions to the dressing. Stir until well mixed.
- Season and Chill: Season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate for an hour to let the flavors blend. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
🌱 Note: You can pan-fry the tofu with a bit of nutritional yeast to mimic the taste of chicken for an added layer of flavor.
The versatility of chicken salad with almonds and green onions allows for various interpretations, from traditional recipes to vegan adaptations. Each variation offers unique flavors and caters to different dietary needs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this delicious meal. With a bit of creativity, this simple salad transforms into a delightful and healthy dish perfect for any occasion. By playing with ingredients and flavors, you can make chicken salad your own, whether you prefer it creamy, light, or entirely plant-based.
Can I prepare chicken salad ahead of time?
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Yes, chicken salad can be made ahead of time. In fact, allowing it to sit for a few hours in the fridge can enhance the flavor as the ingredients meld together. Just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
How long does chicken salad last in the fridge?
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Chicken salad can last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container. Make sure to keep it away from cross contamination with other foods to maintain its freshness and safety.
What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken salad?
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Chicken salad pairs well with fruits like grapes or apple slices, various greens, crackers, or a slice of artisan bread. For a more hearty meal, serve with roasted vegetables or a quinoa salad.
💡 Note: Always taste your dish before serving to adjust seasoning. Everyone’s palate is different, so it’s worth customizing the recipe to your preference.
