Chicken and Pineapple Salad
Chicken and Pineapple Salad Recipe from China and Latvia
Introduction
Chicken and Pineapple Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory taste of barbecued chicken. The addition of curried mayonnaise adds a unique and delicious twist to this classic salad.
History
The combination of chicken and pineapple in a salad is believed to have originated in the tropical regions of the world where both ingredients are abundant. The addition of curried mayonnaise is a modern twist on this traditional dish, adding a depth of flavor and complexity to the salad.
Ingredients
- 1 barbecued chicken
- 0.5 cup shredded coconut
- 1 (440 g) can unsweetened pineapple slices, drained
- 4 spring onions, chopped
Curried mayonnaise
- 1 tsp curry powder
- 0.25 tsp five spice powder
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 0.75 cup mayonnaise
- 0.25 cup coconut milk
How to prepare
Curried mayonnaise
- Thoroughly combine all the ingredients.
Chicken
- Toast the coconut on an oven tray in a moderate oven for about 5 minutes.
- Cut the chicken and pineapple into chunks and place them in a bowl. Mix in the coconut, shallots, and mayonnaise.
- Refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.
Variations
- Add diced bell peppers or celery for extra crunch.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter version of the salad.
- Use grilled chicken instead of barbecued chicken for a smokier flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to toast the coconut before adding it to the salad to enhance its flavor.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Feel free to customize the salad by adding other ingredients such as nuts, raisins, or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken and Pineapple Salad on a bed of lettuce or with a side of rice for a complete meal. It can also be served as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
Cooking Techniques
Toasting the coconut adds a nutty flavor to the salad, while grilling the chicken adds a smoky taste. Mixing the ingredients together and refrigerating allows the flavors to meld together for a delicious and refreshing salad.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have coconut milk, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or sour cream. You can also use canned pineapple chunks instead of slices.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the curried mayonnaise and toast the coconut ahead of time. Keep the ingredients separate until ready to assemble the salad to prevent the coconut from getting soggy.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the Chicken and Pineapple Salad in a hollowed-out pineapple for a fun and festive presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for added texture and flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair this Chicken and Pineapple Salad with a glass of chilled white wine or a tropical fruit smoothie for a refreshing and satisfying meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or enjoy cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 350 per serving
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 15g per serving
Fats
Total Fat: 20g per serving
Saturated Fat: 8g per serving
Proteins
Protein: 25g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin C: 30% of daily value per serving
Iron: 15% of daily value per serving
Alergens
Contains: Eggs, Coconut
Summary
This Chicken and Pineapple Salad is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Chicken and Pineapple Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The combination of flavors and textures makes this salad a crowd-pleaser that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
How did I get this recipe?
I can still picture the first time I came across this recipe for Chicken and Pineapple Salad. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small town in the countryside. My grandmother, who was an amazing cook, had invited some friends over for a summer picnic in our backyard. As I watched her prepare the dishes, I was mesmerized by the way she effortlessly chopped, mixed, and cooked with such grace and confidence.
One of the dishes she made that day was the Chicken and Pineapple Salad. I remember the vibrant colors of the ingredients - the bright yellow pineapple, the deep green lettuce, the juicy red tomatoes, and the tender, golden-brown chicken. The aroma that filled the kitchen as she tossed everything together was like a symphony of flavors dancing in the air.
I asked my grandmother where she had learned to make such a delicious dish, and she smiled and told me that she had picked up the recipe from a dear friend many years ago. She said that cooking was not just about following a recipe, but about infusing each dish with love, care, and memories.
From that moment on, I was determined to learn how to make the Chicken and Pineapple Salad myself. I watched my grandmother closely as she prepared the salad, taking mental notes of each step and ingredient. She patiently answered my questions, guiding me through the process with gentle encouragement.
Over the years, I have made this salad countless times, each time adding my own twist to the recipe. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all praised its delicious flavor and refreshing taste. The combination of the juicy pineapple, tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and tangy dressing never fails to impress.
As I sit here reminiscing about that summer day so long ago, I am grateful for the gift of cooking that my grandmother passed down to me. I have learned that food is not just sustenance for the body, but nourishment for the soul. Each dish we create is a reflection of our experiences, memories, and love.
The Chicken and Pineapple Salad will always hold a special place in my heart, as it reminds me of the bond I shared with my grandmother and the joy of cooking together. I can still taste the sweetness of the pineapple mingling with the savory chicken, the crunch of the lettuce, and the burst of flavor in every bite.
I hope that one day, I will be able to pass down this cherished recipe to my own grandchildren, along with the memories of my grandmother and the love that goes into every dish. Cooking is a gift that keeps on giving, connecting us to our past, present, and future. And for that, I am forever grateful.
Categories
| Chicken Recipes | Chinese Five-spice Powder Recipes | Chinese Recipes | Coconut Milk Recipes | Coconut Recipes | Curry Recipes | Latvian Recipes | Latvian Salads | Mayonnaise Recipes | Pineapple Recipes |