Main Course Tuscan Chicken Spinach Salad

Why Try This Recipe?

It's healthy, keto-friendly, easy to make, and packed with the vibrant flavors of Italian cuisine.

Table of Contents

Why Try This Recipe?
Description
When is the Best Time to Make It?
Pairing Ideas
Allergies
Ingredient Substitutions
Inspiration
Storage Instructions

Description

Imagine the rolling hills of Tuscany, with its beautiful vineyards and olive groves. Now imagine bringing that taste of Italy right to your kitchen with our Tuscan Chicken Spinach Power Salad. This salad is a beautiful blend of vibrant, fresh ingredients, just like the Tuscan countryside itself. Fresh spinach leaves provide a crisp, earthy base, topped with juicy, grilled chicken breast marinated in a mix of Italian herbs and spices. Add to that a sprinkle of sun-dried tomatoes and a handful of olives, and you've got a salad that's not just a meal, but an experience. This salad is not only visually appealing but also packs a powerful nutritional punch, making it a perfect choice for those following a keto diet or anyone looking for a healthy, balanced meal. The chicken provides a lean source of protein, while the spinach is rich in iron and other essential nutrients. The sun-dried tomatoes and olives add a touch of Mediterranean flavor, and a homemade Italian vinaigrette ties it all together. The result is a salad that's hearty enough to be a main course, yet light enough to leave you feeling energized and satisfied.

When is the Best Time to Make It?

This recipe is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, especially during the summer months when fresh spinach is in season.

Pairing Ideas

Pairs well with a glass of dry white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio or a Sauvignon Blanc.

Allergies

None

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe by substituting the listed ingredients with alternatives of your choice from the list below to suit your taste and dietary preferences:

Can replace spinach with arugula or kale
Sun-dried tomatoes can be replaced with fresh cherry tomatoes.

Inspiration

Inspired by the fresh, vibrant flavors of Tuscan cuisine and the need for healthy, balanced meals that don't compromise on taste.

Cooking Tips

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before grilling.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas.

Storage Instructions

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Dressing should be stored separately.

Ingredients

▢ 4 chicken breasts grilled
▢ 8 cups fresh spinach washed and dried
▢ 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
▢ 1/2 cup black olives sliced
▢ 1/2 cup olive oil for dressing
▢ 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar for dressing
▢ 1 tsp Italian seasoning for dressing
▢ 1 clove garlic minced, for dressing

steps

Let's make it

▢
Marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Grill until fully cooked, then slice.
▢
In a large bowl, combine the spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives.
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To make the dressing, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
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Add the sliced chicken to the salad, then drizzle with the dressing. Toss to combine before serving.