Chicken and Asparagus Salad in Tomatoes

Chicken and Asparagus Salad in Tomatoes Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

This Chicken and Asparagus Salad in Tomatoes recipe is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy celery, and savory asparagus mixed with creamy mayonnaise and curry powder creates a delicious filling for juicy tomatoes.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on classic stuffed tomato recipes that have been enjoyed for generations. The addition of chicken and asparagus adds protein and nutrients to the dish, making it a satisfying and healthy meal option.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice, cooled
1.5 cups diced cooked chicken
0.5 cup thinly sliced celery
1 can (10.5 oz or 298 g) drained green asparagus
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
0.75 cup mayonnaise
0.5 tsp curry powder
6 whole large tomatoes

How to prepare

Measure the rice, chicken, celery, and asparagus into a bowl. Season with pepper and salt.
Stir in the mayonnaise mixed with curry. Chill.
Turn the tomatoes upside down, with the stem end facing down. Cut each tomato, not quite through to the stem end, into 6 equal sections. Spread the sections apart.
Season lightly with salt and pepper and fill each tomato with the rice mixture.
Serve on a bed of crisp greens, if desired.

Variations

Substitute cooked shrimp or tofu for the chicken for a different protein option.
Add diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
Mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a burst of freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the rice ahead of time and allow it to cool completely before mixing it with the other ingredients.

- Drain the canned asparagus well to remove excess liquid and prevent the salad from becoming too watery.

- Adjust the amount of curry powder to suit your taste preferences - you can add more for a stronger flavor or omit it entirely for a milder dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Chicken and Asparagus Salad in Tomatoes on a bed of crisp greens for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the rice according to package instructions to ensure it is tender and fluffy.

- Drain the canned asparagus well to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.

- Use a sharp knife to carefully cut the tomatoes into sections without cutting all the way through to the stem end.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing option.

- Swap out the curry powder for other spices like paprika, cumin, or chili powder for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to wait to fill the tomatoes until ready to serve to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the filled tomatoes on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This Chicken and Asparagus Salad in Tomatoes pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the salad until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Chicken and Asparagus Salad in Tomatoes contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this Chicken and Asparagus Salad in Tomatoes contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this dish contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this salad provides approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate from the tomatoes, asparagus, and celery.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and soy from the mayonnaise, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

This dish is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This Chicken and Asparagus Salad in Tomatoes recipe is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With a mix of tender chicken, crunchy celery, and savory asparagus, all mixed with creamy mayonnaise and curry powder, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated. It was a warm summer day and I was at a gathering with friends, when one of them brought out a platter of Chicken and Asparagus Salad in Tomatoes. The colors and presentation were simply stunning, and I couldn't wait to try it.

I asked my friend where she had learned to make such a beautiful dish, and she told me that she had picked up the recipe from a cooking class she had taken a few years back. Intrigued, I asked her if she would be willing to share the recipe with me, and she happily obliged.

As I sat down to eat my first bite of the salad, I was instantly hooked. The flavors were bright and fresh, with the tender chicken and crisp asparagus perfectly complemented by the juicy tomatoes and tangy vinaigrette. I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

So, I set out on a mission to recreate the Chicken and Asparagus Salad in Tomatoes. I began by gathering all the ingredients I would need – chicken breasts, asparagus, cherry tomatoes, red onion, garlic, lemon, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. I carefully followed the instructions my friend had given me, grilling the chicken until it was tender and juicy, blanching the asparagus to retain its vibrant color, and mixing up a zesty vinaigrette to drizzle over the top.

The first time I made the salad, it was a resounding success. My family couldn't get enough of it, and I knew that I had stumbled upon a new favorite dish. I made it again and again, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my own tastes.

Over the years, I have continued to make Chicken and Asparagus Salad in Tomatoes for countless gatherings and celebrations. It has become a signature dish of mine, one that my friends and family request time and time again. And each time I make it, I think back to that warm summer day when I first laid eyes on the recipe that would become such a beloved part of my culinary repertoire.

But my journey with this recipe didn't end there. As I continued to make the salad, I began to experiment with different variations and additions. I added fresh herbs like basil and parsley to give it an extra kick of flavor, and sometimes I swapped out the chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for a lighter twist.

One day, I decided to try something completely new – I hollowed out the cherry tomatoes and filled them with the chicken and asparagus mixture, creating a stunning and elegant appetizer that wowed everyone who tried it. It was a hit, and soon I found myself being asked to share the recipe with friends and neighbors who had tasted it at my gatherings.

And so, the recipe for Chicken and Asparagus Salad in Tomatoes became not just a favorite dish of mine, but a beloved recipe that I shared with others. It became a symbol of my love for cooking and my joy in sharing delicious food with those I care about.

As I look back on my culinary journey with this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the friends and experiences that have brought it into my life. It has become more than just a dish – it is a part of my story, a reminder of the joy and creativity that cooking can bring.

And so, I will continue to make Chicken and Asparagus Salad in Tomatoes for years to come, sharing it with new friends and old, and passing on the recipe to future generations. It is a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, and one that I will always cherish.