Chicken and Nectarine Salad

Kenyan Chicken and Nectarine Salad Recipe with Cumin and Sliced Almonds

Region / culture: Kenya | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This Chicken and Nectarine Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The combination of tender chicken, sweet nectarines, crunchy celery, and toasted almonds creates a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on the classic chicken salad, incorporating the sweetness of nectarines for a unique flavor profile. Chicken salad has been a popular dish for many years, with variations found in cuisines around the world.

Ingredients

2 tsp of cumin seeds
0.5 cup of mayonnaise
3 tbsp of fresh lemon juice
5 cups of shredded or diced cooked chicken
1.5 cups of diced firm but ripe nectarines
0.75 cup of chopped celery (about 2 stalks)
0.67 cup of chopped red onion
0.5 cup of toasted sliced almonds

How to prepare

Toast cumin in a heavy small skillet over medium heat until slightly darkened, about 1 minute.
Transfer the toasted cumin to a small bowl.
Add mayonnaise and lemon juice to the bowl; whisk the dressing until smooth.
In a large bowl, toss the chicken, nectarines, celery, and onion together.
Stir in the dressing.
Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste.
Spoon the salad into lettuce leaves and sprinkle with almonds.

Variations

Substitute peaches or mango for the nectarines for a different flavor profile.
Add diced avocado for extra creaminess.
Mix in some chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to toast the cumin seeds before adding them to the dressing to enhance their flavor.

- Use firm but ripe nectarines for the best texture and sweetness in the salad.

- Adjust the amount of mayonnaise and lemon juice to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Chicken and Nectarine Salad on a bed of lettuce leaves for a light and refreshing meal. It can also be enjoyed on its own or with a side of crusty bread.

Cooking Techniques

Toasting the cumin seeds enhances their flavor and adds a nutty aroma to the dressing.

- Shredding or dicing the chicken ensures that it is evenly distributed throughout the salad.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.

- Walnuts or pecans can be used instead of almonds for a different nutty flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

The Chicken and Nectarine Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just wait to add the almonds until ready to serve to maintain their crunchiness.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the salad with fresh herbs or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation. Serve it in a colorful bowl or on a platter for an eye-catching dish.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer. It can also be served with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the salad in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 15g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 9g

Fats

- Total Fat: 22g

- Saturated Fat: 3g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 28g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10%

- Vitamin C: 20%

- Calcium: 6%

- Iron: 10%

Alergens

Contains eggs and tree nuts (almonds)

Summary

This Chicken and Nectarine Salad is a balanced meal with a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

This Chicken and Nectarine Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and satisfying meal. With a balance of flavors and textures, it is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Chicken and Nectarine Salad. It was a warm summer day, and I was attending a potluck gathering with some friends from my cooking club. Everyone was bringing their favorite dish to share, and I wanted to make something special that would wow the crowd.

As I perused through my vast collection of cookbooks, I came across a tattered and stained recipe card tucked away in the back of one of my oldest books. It was handwritten in beautiful cursive script, and the title at the top read "Chicken and Nectarine Salad." Intrigued, I decided to give it a try.

The recipe called for simple ingredients that I already had on hand - cooked chicken, ripe nectarines, mixed greens, and a homemade vinaigrette dressing. It seemed like the perfect dish for a hot summer day, light and refreshing yet satisfying.

I followed the instructions carefully, slicing the nectarines into delicate wedges and shredding the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. The vinaigrette dressing was a combination of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey, creating a sweet and tangy flavor that complemented the ingredients perfectly.

As I tossed everything together in a large bowl, the vibrant colors of the salad popped against the green backdrop of the mixed greens. The aroma of fresh herbs and juicy nectarines wafted through the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

When I brought the Chicken and Nectarine Salad to the potluck, it was a hit. The sweet and savory flavors mingled together harmoniously, creating a symphony of tastes that delighted everyone who tried it. My friends showered me with compliments, asking for the recipe and begging me to make it again.

From that moment on, Chicken and Nectarine Salad became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for myself on lazy summer afternoons. The recipe held a special place in my heart, not only for its delicious taste but also for the memories of that sunny day when I first discovered it.

Over the years, I tweaked the recipe here and there, adding new ingredients and experimenting with different variations. Sometimes I would throw in some toasted almonds for extra crunch, or drizzle a bit of citrus dressing over the top for a zesty kick.

But no matter how many times I made it, the Chicken and Nectarine Salad never failed to impress. It was a timeless classic that never went out of style, always bringing a smile to the faces of those who tasted it.

As I sit here now, reflecting on that fateful day when I stumbled upon the recipe, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for all the culinary adventures it has brought me on. Cooking has always been my passion, and this salad recipe was a shining example of the joy and creativity that comes with experimenting in the kitchen.

So here's to Chicken and Nectarine Salad - a dish that has brought me joy, memories, and delicious flavors throughout the years. And here's to the many more recipes waiting to be discovered, shared, and enjoyed with those I love. Cooking truly is a gift that keeps on giving, and I am grateful for every bite of it. Cheers!