Celery salad with chicken breast

Celery Salad with Chicken Breast - a fresh, healthy, and flavorful delight

Who doesn't love a delicious salad that combines fresh and healthy ingredients? Celery salad with chicken breast is a perfect choice for those hot summer days, but also a light and nourishing option for quick lunches. In this guide, I will share a simple and quick recipe that is packed with flavor and will surely become one of your favorites.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 500 g celery (about one medium celery)
- 1 chicken breast (about 300 g)
- 4 - 5 pickles
- 2 eggs (for mayonnaise)
- 3 - 4 tablespoons sour cream
- Vinegar or lemon juice (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Optional: white pepper for a subtler taste
- Fresh celery leaves for garnish

Preparation steps:

1. Boil the chicken breast: In a pot of boiling water, add the chicken breast. Boil for about 15-20 minutes, until the meat is tender and well-cooked. A useful tip is to add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance the flavors. Once the chicken breast is ready, remove it from the water and let it cool slightly before cutting it into cubes.

2. Prepare the celery: Peel the celery and grate it on a fine grater. It is important to immediately sprinkle the celery with a little vinegar or lemon juice to prevent oxidation and keep the fresh color. This step not only helps with the salad's appearance but also adds a note of acidity that will balance the flavors.

3. Chop the pickles: While waiting for the chicken breast to cool, chop the pickles into small cubes. They will add a crunchy texture and a touch of tanginess to the dish.

4. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the grated celery, chopped chicken breast, and pickles. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the mayonnaise and sour cream, mixing well to combine all the ingredients. If you prefer a lighter dressing, you can adjust the amount of mayonnaise and sour cream to your liking.

5. Finish and garnish: Once all the ingredients are well mixed, transfer the salad to a serving platter and garnish with fresh celery leaves. This not only looks beautiful but also adds an extra layer of flavor.

Suggestions and variations:
- If you want to add a bit of crunch, you can include nuts or roasted sunflower seeds.
- Vary the recipe by adding diced green apples for a sweet-tart note.
- For a more colorful salad, try adding diced bell peppers or grated carrots.

Nutritional benefits:
This salad is not only delicious but also extremely healthy. Celery is known for its diuretic properties and low calorie content, making it an ideal ingredient for diets. Chicken breast provides lean protein, essential for maintaining muscle mass, while pickles add beneficial probiotics for digestion.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can the salad be made with grilled chicken breast?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken breast will add a wonderful flavor to the salad.

2. Can I use celery root instead of regular celery?
Yes, celery root will provide a more pronounced flavor and a crunchy texture.

3. How long can the salad be stored in the refrigerator?
The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Make sure to cover it well to prevent drying out.

4. What other dishes pair well with this salad?
Celery salad with chicken breast pairs wonderfully with a side of baked potatoes or alongside a slice of toasted bread. You can also serve it as a filling in tortillas for a quick and tasty lunch.

In conclusion, celery salad with chicken breast is a quick, simple, and flavorful recipe that will delight the whole family. Experiment with the ingredients and find the perfect combination for you! Don't forget to serve this refreshing salad alongside a cool drink, like fruit tea or fresh lemonade. Enjoy!