Caesar salad (is one of the variations that appeared, not the original:)

Caesar Salad with Chicken - A Simplified and Delicious Version

In the culinary world, Caesar salad is a true star, dressed in many variations and reinterpretations over time. With a captivating history linked to the creativity of a chef who wanted to impress, this salad is an excellent choice for a fresh and healthy meal. Today, I will present to you a simplified recipe that combines classic ingredients with a modern twist, offering you a delicious salad that is easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 1 romaine lettuce (approximately 200-250 g)
- 150-200 g chicken breast, sliced
- 2 slices of whole grain bread
- 30 g parmesan, grated or thinly sliced
- 1 fat-free yogurt (125 g)
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 lemon (juice)
- 1 garlic clove
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A little dried oregano

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the romaine lettuce. Tear the leaves into larger pieces to maintain their crunchy texture. These green leaves will not only add a vibrant look to your salad, but they are also rich in vitamins, providing significant nutritional value.

2. Cooking the chicken breast: Heat a grill pan or grill. Add the slices of chicken breast and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 7-8 minutes on each side until well browned and juicy. Once cooked, cut them into strips or cubes. Make sure the chicken is cooked through but not dry!

3. Preparing the croutons: Cut the two slices of whole grain bread into cubes. You can toast them in a toaster or place them in the oven on a tray at 180°C for 5-7 minutes until golden and crispy. A trick to make the croutons even more flavorful is to rub each toasted slice with a garlic clove, allowing its aroma to infuse the bread.

4. Preparing the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the fat-free yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, grated garlic clove, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix well until you have a smooth dressing. This creamy yogurt dressing is a healthier alternative to classic mayonnaise-based dressings, bringing a fresh and slightly tangy note.

5. Assembling the salad: In a large bowl, add the torn lettuce, warm chicken strips, crispy croutons, and parmesan slices. Pour the yogurt dressing over all the ingredients and gently toss so that each ingredient is evenly coated.

6. Serving: You can serve the Caesar salad immediately to enjoy its freshness. If you wish, add a sliced boiled egg for an extra protein boost and flavor. This salad pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine, which will enhance the flavors.

Practical tips:

- If you want to reduce calories, you can skip the parmesan or use a light version, such as feta cheese.
- Salad variations may include adding sliced cherry tomatoes or black olives for a more intense flavor.
- Make sure the chicken breast is well-seasoned, as it is the main source of flavor in this salad.
- If you prefer a creamier dressing, you can add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the yogurt dressing.

Nutritional information: This Caesar salad with chicken offers a healthy meal, with a balanced content of proteins, fibers, and healthy fats due to the olive oil. One serving contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of parmesan used and the addition of the boiled egg.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I substitute the chicken breast with another type of protein?
Yes, you can use turkey breast, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

2. What types of dressing can I use instead of the yogurt dressing?
You can opt for a classic Caesar dressing made from olive oil, lemon, parmesan, anchovies, and garlic. Or you can use a balsamic dressing for a different note.

3. How can I keep the salad fresh if I prepare it a few hours before serving?
Keep the ingredients (lettuce, chicken, croutons, and dressing) separate until serving time to prevent the salad from getting soggy.

Whether you serve it for a family dinner or as a healthy lunch at the office, this Caesar salad with chicken will bring a touch of freshness and flavor to every bite. I encourage you to experiment with the ingredients and create your own unique version! Enjoy!