Refreshing Chopped Salad Recipe – Vibrant & Easy to Make

Chopped salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that dances with colors and flavors, making it an ideal companion for any meal. Imagine sinking your fork into crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and crisp bell peppers, all mingling in a zesty dressing that sings with every bite. refreshing Mexican coleslaw This salad is not just a side—it’s the life of the party on your plate.

I remember the first time I made chopped salad for a family gathering; I was convinced it would take forever. Spoiler alert: it didn’t! As my relatives devoured the colorful medley, I felt like a culinary rockstar. Caprese skewers for a summer meal Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy winter dinners, this dish is always an instant hit, promising delightful flavors and a crunch that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients for Chopped Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems burst with sweetness and add vibrant color to your salad.
• Cucumber: Use English cucumbers for their crisp texture and minimal seeds. They provide refreshing crunch.
• Bell Peppers: A mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers brings sweetness and a pop of color.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a mild sharpness that complements the sweet veggies perfectly.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds an aromatic touch and elevates the flavor profile.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the whole salad with its tangy zest.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of good-quality olive oil helps to bind all those lovely flavors together.

For added protein:

• Cooked Chicken Breast: Shredded or cubed chicken adds heartiness to turn this into a main course.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this Vegetarian Chili recipe recipe.

How to Make Chopped Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Wash all vegetables thoroughly under cold water. Cut cherry tomatoes in half, slice cucumbers into quarters lengthwise before dicing them into bite-sized pieces, and chop bell peppers and red onion finely.

Step 2: Combine Veggies

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, and fresh parsley. Toss gently until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil until well combined. Feel free to add salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the chopped veggies in your mixing bowl. Toss everything together until each piece is well coated with that zesty goodness.

Step 5: Add Protein (Optional)

If you’re using cooked chicken breast, now’s the time to fold it gently into your salad mixture. This step is optional but highly recommended if you want to amp up the protein!

Step 6: Serve

Transfer the beautifully colorful salad onto serving plates or bowls. For extra flair, you can garnish with additional parsley or even some seeds for crunch!

This chopped salad is not only delightful but also incredibly versatile; serve it chilled or at room temperature as part of your next gathering or simply enjoy it as a healthy lunch during your busy workweek!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating your chicken while you chop veggies for the salad. Sear the chicken to lock in flavors, then prepare your dressing while the chicken rests. This multitasking magic ensures everything is hot and fresh when serving.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on seasonality or personal preferences. Toss in some avocado for creaminess or add nuts for crunch. Experiment with different dressings to keep this chopped salad exciting and fresh every time.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, reheat chicken separately to maintain its juicy goodness, and enjoy your salad cold for a refreshing meal.

Sharing a memorable moment, I once whipped up this chopped salad for a summer barbecue, and my friends raved about it all night long! It’s moments like these that make cooking so rewarding and fun.

FAQs:

What is a Chopped Salad?

A chopped salad is a fresh, vibrant dish made from a variety of finely chopped vegetables, herbs, and proteins. The key to a great chopped salad lies in its balance of flavors and textures. You can customize it by adding ingredients like chicken, turkey, or beef for protein. creamy apple and walnut salad Dressings made from vinegar or fruit juices add zest to the mix. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy option for any meal.

How do I make the best dressing for my Chopped Salad?

Creating a delicious dressing for your chopped salad is simple and enhances the overall flavor. Combine olive oil with vinegar or citrus juice as a base. Add ingredients like mustard, honey, garlic, or herbs to elevate the taste. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference. This homemade dressing pairs perfectly with the fresh ingredients in your salad and allows you to control the flavors without any preservatives. For more inspiration, check out this Blood Orange Salad recipe recipe.

Can I customize my Chopped Salad?

Absolutely! The beauty of a chopped salad lies in its versatility. You can easily tailor it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what’s in season or available at your local market. You can also experiment with different proteins such as grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or marinated beef. Adding nuts or seeds provides extra crunch and nutrition. Get creative!

Is Chopped Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, chopped salads are excellent for meal prep! They hold up well when stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To prevent sogginess, keep dressings separate until you’re ready to eat. Prepare individual servings for grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners during the week. This way, you’ll always have a healthy option available while saving time on busy days.

Conclusion for Chopped Salad:

In summary, a chopped salad is a versatile and nutritious dish that can be customized to fit various tastes and dietary preferences. By selecting fresh ingredients like vegetables and proteins such as chicken or turkey, you can create a colorful meal that’s both satisfying and healthy. Don’t forget to experiment with dressings using vinegars or fruit juices for added flavor! With its ease of preparation and endless variations, chopped salad makes an excellent choice for any occasion.

Print

Chopped Salad

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Indulge in a vibrant chopped salad that bursts with freshness and flavor! This colorful medley features crunchy cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crispy bell peppers, all tossed in a zesty lemon dressing. Perfect as a refreshing side or light main dish, this easy-to-make salad is a delightful addition to any meal.

• Total Time: 28 minute
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium English cucumber, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), diced
• 1/4 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed (optional)

Instructions

1. Wash the vegetables thoroughly. Cut cherry tomatoes in half, slice cucumber into quarters lengthwise, then dice into bite-sized pieces. Chop bell peppers and red onion finely.
2. In a large bowl, mix cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, and parsley. Toss gently.
3. Whisk together lemon juice and olive oil in a small bowl; season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the veggie mixture and toss until well coated.
5. Gently fold in shredded chicken if desired.
6. Transfer to serving plates or bowls and garnish with extra parsley or seeds for crunch.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Customize your salad by adding seasonal vegetables or toppings such as avocado or nuts for added nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; keep dressing separate until ready to serve.