Exotic Salad Siang

Exotic Siang Salad

Discover an explosion of flavors and colors with this Exotic Siang Salad, perfect for warm days or as a special appetizer at a dinner with friends. This recipe combines fresh and healthy ingredients in a creative way, bringing together the sweetness of fruits, the delicate texture of chicken, and the crunchiness of vegetables. Plus, it's a simple and quick recipe that can be prepared in about 40 minutes. So, get ready to impress with a vibrant salad!

Total preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1-2 chicken breasts
- 100 g of pickled shrimp (we recommend the Vici brand)
- 2-3 kiwis
- 1 mango
- 2 medium tomatoes
- ½ orange bell pepper
- ½ green bell pepper
- 50 g of cucumber
- 50 g of fresh pineapple
- 30 g of carrot
- 50 g of black grapes
- 50 g of white grapes
- 50 g of sesame seeds
- olive oil
- soy sauce (1-2 teaspoons)
- balsamic vinegar
- rice vinegar

Preparation:
1. Cooking the chicken: Start by preparing the chicken breast. Heat the grill to a medium-high temperature. Brush the chicken breast with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Place it on the grill and cook for about 20 minutes, turning it halfway through. Check if it's cooked properly; the meat should be white inside and juicy. If it's not done, leave it on the grill for a few more minutes.

2. Preparing the ingredients: While the chicken is cooking, you can prepare the vegetables and fruits. Cut the carrots into thin strips using a knife or a grater. Peel the kiwis and mango and cut them into cubes. The tomatoes, peppers, and cucumber are diced for easy eating. The fresh pineapple is also cut into cubes. The black and white grapes can be used whole, pitted.

3. Cooking the shrimp: If using pickled shrimp, they are already pre-cooked. However, to bring them to the desired temperature, boil them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain well.

4. Toasting the sesame seeds: In a dry skillet (without oil), add the sesame seeds. Toast them over medium heat, stirring constantly, until they become golden and fragrant. This process takes about 3-5 minutes, so keep an eye on them!

5. Preparing the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and rice vinegar. Mix well to achieve a smooth dressing. This dressing will add a note of flavor to your salad, blending sweet and sour tastes.

6. Assembling the salad: In a large bowl, add all the chopped ingredients: sliced chicken, shrimp, vegetables, and fruits. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently mix so that all the ingredients combine well.

7. Finishing touches: After the sesame seeds are toasted, remove them from the skillet and add them to the assembled salad. At this point, you can get creative! Decorate the edge of the plate with chocolate syrup and a few fresh strawberries for an elegant look. This presentation will make the salad look not only appetizing but also festive.

Nutritional benefits:
This Exotic Siang Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The chicken breast provides lean protein, essential for tissue repair, while the fruits and vegetables bring a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Additionally, sesame seeds are an excellent source of calcium and healthy fats.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I replace the chicken breast with another type of meat? Absolutely! You can use turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
2. How can I make the salad spicier? Add a few thin slices of chili pepper or chili sauce to the dressing for an extra kick.
3. Can I use other fruits? Certainly! You can add mango, papaya, or even pineapple and strawberries to vary the taste.
4. What is the best way to store the salad? It’s best to consume the salad fresh, but if you need to store it, separate the dressing from the other ingredients to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Serving suggestions:
This Exotic Siang Salad pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine or a fresh fruit-based cocktail. It can also be served alongside basmati rice or quinoa for a nourishing lunch.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to start cooking! I invite you to enjoy every step of the process and let yourself be inspired by the flavors of fresh fruits and vegetables. Enjoy your meal!