Avocado and Smoked Turkey Salad in a Bread Basket

Avocado and Smoked Turkey Salad in a Bread Basket Recipe from France

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

The Avocado and Smoked Turkey Salad in a Bread Basket is a delightful and innovative recipe that combines the creamy texture of avocado with the rich flavor of smoked turkey, all served in an edible bread basket. This dish is perfect for those who appreciate a fusion of flavors and textures, making it an ideal choice for brunches, lunches, or light dinners. The unique presentation of the salad in a bread basket not only adds a creative touch but also makes it a conversation starter at any gathering.

History

The concept of serving dishes in an edible container has roots in various cuisines around the world, but the Avocado and Smoked Turkey Salad in a Bread Basket is a modern creation that combines elements of traditional and contemporary culinary practices. The use of avocado and smoked turkey in salads has been popular in American cuisine for decades, reflecting the country's love for these ingredients. The addition of a bread basket as the serving vessel is a creative twist that adds an element of surprise and delight to the dining experience.

Ingredients

Dressing

0.25 cup olive oil
3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp marmalade
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
0.5 tsp curry powder
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
0.25 tsp salt

Salad

2 loaves french bread (12 inches long)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
8 cup mixed greens
1 cup cubed (0.5 inch) smoked deli turkey
1 cup cubed (0.5 inch) papaya
1 cup red or green grapes (halved if large)
1 medium red apple, cored and cubed (0.5 inch)
1 ripe california avocado, seeded, peeled, and cut into crescents

How to prepare

Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients until blended.
Set aside.

Salad

Cut one inch off the top of each loaf of bread.
Using a serrated knife, cut around the inner edge of the crust to remove the inside of the bread.
Remove by tearing out all of the interior of the loaf.
A 0.5 inch shell should remain.
In a small bowl, mix together the oil and vinegar.
Brush the mixture on the inside of each loaf.
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (191°C) for 5 minutes.
Remove from the oven and let it cool.
In a large bowl, combine the greens, turkey, papaya, grapes, and apple.
Whisk together the dressing and pour it over the salad.
Toss to coat.
Spoon the mixture into breadbaskets.
Top with avocado crescents.
Cut each breadbasket into four pieces and serve.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, replace the smoked turkey with grilled tofu or tempeh. You can also experiment with different fruits based on seasonal availability, such as mangoes or berries. For those who prefer a bit more crunch, adding nuts like almonds or walnuts to the salad can provide an extra texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the bread baskets retain their shape and crispness, it's crucial to bake them until they are just golden and firm. Brushing the inside with a mixture of olive oil and balsamic vinegar not only adds flavor but also helps to create a barrier that prevents the bread from becoming soggy once the salad is added. For the salad, cutting the ingredients into uniform sizes ensures that each bite is a perfect blend of flavors and textures.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is best served fresh, immediately after assembling. It makes a perfect standalone meal but can also be paired with a light soup or a side of fresh fruit for a more filling meal. For a refreshing touch, serve with a glass of white wine or a light cocktail.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the preparation of the bread basket, which involves carefully hollowing out the bread and baking it to achieve the perfect crispness. For the salad, the technique of evenly coating the ingredients with the dressing is crucial for flavor distribution.

Ingredient Substitutions

If smoked turkey is not available, smoked chicken or even roast beef can be a good substitute. For a dairy-free version of the dressing, replace the marmalade with a dairy-free alternative or simply use honey or maple syrup for sweetness. Any type of mixed greens can be used based on preference and availability.

Make Ahead Tips

The bread baskets can be prepared a day in advance and stored in an airtight container to maintain their crispness. The dressing can also be made ahead and refrigerated. However, it's best to assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting and the bread from becoming soggy.

Presentation Ideas

To enhance the visual appeal of the dish, arrange the avocado crescents neatly on top of the salad before serving. A sprinkle of edible flowers or fresh herbs can add a pop of color and freshness. Serving the bread baskets on a wooden board can also enhance the rustic charm of the dish.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the flavors of this salad. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime or a light herbal tea complements the dish well.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

It's not recommended to store the assembled salad in the bread basket as it will become soggy. If there are leftovers, store the salad and bread separately in the refrigerator. The bread baskets can be reheated in the oven to restore their crispness before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of the Avocado and Smoked Turkey Salad in a Bread Basket contains approximately 400-450 calories. This makes it a suitable option for a filling meal that doesn't overload on calories, perfect for those monitoring their calorie intake.

Carbohydrates

The primary source of carbohydrates in this recipe comes from the French bread used to create the baskets and the fruits included in the salad. One serving of this dish provides approximately 45-55 grams of carbohydrates, making it a moderate source of carbs. The inclusion of fruits like papaya, grapes, and apple also adds natural sugars and dietary fiber to the dish.

Fats

The healthy fats in this recipe come mainly from the avocado and olive oil. Avocado is a great source of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. Olive oil, used in both the dressing and for brushing the bread, is also rich in monounsaturated fats. One serving of this salad contains about 15-20 grams of fat, most of which are healthy fats.

Proteins

The smoked turkey is the primary source of protein in this salad, providing about 15-20 grams of protein per serving. This makes the dish a good option for those looking to increase their protein intake. The protein from the turkey is complemented by the small amounts of protein found in the avocado and the bread, making the dish balanced in terms of macronutrients.

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the variety of fruits and vegetables used. Avocado is rich in Vitamin K, folate, Vitamin C, and potassium. The mixed greens provide a variety of nutrients, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, calcium, and iron. The fruits add additional Vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious.

Alergens

The main allergens to be aware of in this recipe are gluten (from the bread) and potentially nuts, depending on the type of marmalade used. Individuals with specific food allergies should modify the recipe accordingly or ensure that all ingredients used are free from their allergens.

Summary

Overall, the Avocado and Smoked Turkey Salad in a Bread Basket is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for a meal. The calorie count makes it suitable for those watching their intake, and with careful selection of ingredients, it can be adapted for those with food allergies.

Summary

The Avocado and Smoked Turkey Salad in a Bread Basket is a creative and nutritious dish that combines the rich flavors of smoked turkey and avocado with the freshness of mixed greens and fruits, all served in a crispy bread basket. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit different dietary needs and preferences, making it a perfect option for a variety of occasions. With its balance of flavors, textures, and nutrients, this salad is sure to delight and satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Avocado and Smoked Turkey Salad in a Bread Basket. It was a warm summer day, and I was browsing through a stack of old cookbooks that I had collected over the years. As I flipped through the pages, a picture of the salad caught my eye - it looked so fresh and delicious, the perfect dish for a light lunch or dinner.

I had always loved experimenting with new recipes and trying out different flavors and ingredients, so I knew that I had to give this one a try. The combination of creamy avocado, smoky turkey, and crunchy bread sounded like a match made in culinary heaven. I immediately set to work gathering the ingredients and preparing the dish.

As I sliced open the ripe avocados and diced the tender smoked turkey, memories flooded back to me of all the recipes I had learned over the years. Some I had picked up from my own mother, who was an incredible cook in her own right. Others I had learned from friends, neighbors, and even strangers I had met while traveling. Each recipe held a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and comfort that good food can bring.

The bread basket was the final touch that really set this salad apart. I had never thought of serving a salad in a bread basket before, but it was such a clever and creative idea. The crisp, golden crust of the bread would provide the perfect vessel for the creamy avocado and savory turkey. I couldn't wait to see how it all came together.

As I mixed the avocado and turkey with a tangy dressing of lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs, the kitchen filled with a mouthwatering aroma. The colors of the salad were bright and vibrant, a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. I carefully hollowed out the bread basket and filled it with the salad, arranging it so that each bite would be a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

When I finally sat down to enjoy my creation, I was not disappointed. The creamy avocado paired beautifully with the smoky turkey, and the crunch of the bread added a wonderful contrast. Each bite was a symphony of flavors, a celebration of the ingredients and techniques that had come together to create this masterpiece.

I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my repertoire, a dish that I would make again and again for family and friends. And as I savored each delicious bite, I felt grateful for the knowledge and experience that had led me to this moment. Cooking was not just a hobby or a passion for me - it was a way of connecting with the world around me, of sharing love and joy through the simple act of preparing and sharing food.

As the sun began to set and the day drew to a close, I sat back in my chair, feeling satisfied and content. I knew that there would be many more recipes to discover and learn in the years to come, but for now, I was happy to bask in the glow of this culinary triumph. Avocado and Smoked Turkey Salad in a Bread Basket had become more than just a recipe - it was a memory, a story, a part of my culinary journey that I would cherish forever.