Description
A refreshing high-protein cucumber salad combining crisp cucumbers, tangy red onion, and lean chicken breast, tossed in a creamy Greek yogurt dressing with fresh herbs and lemon zest. Perfect as a light meal or side dish, this chilled salad offers a healthy boost of protein and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups sliced English cucumber
- 1 medium red onion (can substitute with green onions)
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (or canned chickpeas for vegetarian)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-fat Greek yogurt (or non-dairy yogurt for vegan)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup diced fresh herbs (dill or parsley)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Finely slice the cucumber and red onion into thin pieces to ensure a crisp texture and balanced flavor throughout the salad.
- Prepare the protein: Dice or shred the cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces to make it easy to mix and eat.
- Minced garlic: If using fresh garlic, mince it finely to release its flavor evenly in the dressing.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, add the sliced cucumber, red onion, cooked chicken, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Add brightness: Stir in the lemon zest to give the salad a fresh and zesty aroma.
- Mix well: Cover the bowl and either shake vigorously or stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated and combined.
- Chill and serve: Enjoy the salad immediately chilled or cover and refrigerate it for later use to let the flavors meld together.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, replace cooked chicken with canned chickpeas.
- Use non-dairy yogurt to make the recipe vegan friendly.
- Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor.
- Add more fresh herbs like dill or parsley according to your taste preference.
- Adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
- Serve chilled for optimal refreshing taste.
