Green bean salad with chicken

Green bean salad with smoked chicken, fresh vegetables, and herbs – A delicious and quick recipe for your meals

Cooking is an art, and every recipe has its story, filled with traditions and exquisite flavors. Today, I challenge you to explore a vibrant green bean salad with smoked chicken, fresh vegetables, and herbs, perfect for lunch or dinner. This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also extremely tasty. Get ready to surprise your family and friends with a healthy and flavorful dish!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

The story of the recipe

Green bean salad is a dish that has gained popularity due to its versatility. Green beans, a nutrient-rich ingredient, are often associated with light and healthy meals. Combined with smoked chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this salad becomes an explosion of flavors that will delight your taste buds. It is a recipe that invites personalization, so feel free to experiment!

Ingredients

- 1 large jar (800 g) of green beans
- 2 smoked chicken thighs (or 200 g smoked chicken breast)
- 2 medium carrots
- 1 medium onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1/2 lemon (juice)
- A handful of fresh parsley
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons of flaxseed or sesame seeds (optional)

Ingredient details

Green beans - An excellent source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, green beans are a healthy ingredient that improves digestion and contributes to cardiovascular health.

Smoked chicken - It adds an intense flavor and delicious texture. You can use any part of the smoked chicken, but thighs provide extra juiciness.

Carrots - Grated, they add a touch of sweetness to the salad, being important sources of beta-carotene and vitamins.

Onion - Adds a slightly spicy flavor, perfectly balanced by the other ingredients.

Bell pepper - With its sweet aroma and crunchy texture, it perfectly complements the dish.

Parsley - This herb not only adds a vibrant appearance but is also rich in nutrients.

Flaxseed or sesame seeds - These can be added for extra crunch and essential nutrients, such as Omega-3 fatty acids.

Preparation technique

Step 1: Preparing the beans
The first step in this recipe is to thoroughly drain the green beans from the jar. Place a sieve over a large bowl and pour the beans into it, allowing the excess liquid to drain. This step is essential to prevent a soggy salad.

Step 2: Cutting the ingredients
In the meantime, you can start preparing the other ingredients. Cut the chicken into small cubes. If using thighs, remove the skin and bones to get tender and easy-to-eat meat. Cutting into small cubes will help with even distribution of flavors.

Grate the carrots using a grater. They will not only add color but also a crunchy texture. Slice the onion thinly and chop the bell pepper into small cubes.

Step 3: Mixing the salad
In a large bowl, combine the drained beans, smoked chicken, grated carrot, sliced onion, and chopped bell pepper. This combination of colorful ingredients is full of vitality and health!

Step 4: Adding the herbs
Finely chop the fresh parsley and add it to the bowl. The lemon juice will add a touch of freshness and enhance the flavors of the ingredients. Pour in the olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Carefully mix everything so that each ingredient is evenly coated.

Step 5: Finalizing and serving
For extra crunch, add the flaxseed or sesame seeds. Mix again to distribute them evenly. Transfer the salad to small bowls and serve immediately. This salad is delicious when cold but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

Serving suggestion
A personal suggestion would be to serve the green bean salad alongside a slice of toasted rye bread or a crunchy baguette. A bottle of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade would perfectly complement the meal.

Possible variations
If you want to bring a touch of innovation, you can try adding some green or black olives for a Mediterranean flavor. Additionally, by replacing the smoked chicken with smoked tofu or feta cheese, you can transform the salad into a delicious vegetarian dish.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use fresh green beans?
Of course! If you prefer fresh green beans, boil them for 5-7 minutes in salted water, then drain and let them cool before adding them to the salad.

How can I store the salad for the next day?
This salad is best consumed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 1-2 days. The food will taste delicious, but consume it as soon as possible to enjoy the freshness of the ingredients.

How can I adapt the recipe to be vegan?
Replace the smoked chicken with marinated and fried tofu, and soy yogurt can replace olive oil for a creamier version.

Nutritional benefits
This salad is an excellent choice for a healthy meal. With low calories, being rich in protein due to the chicken and fiber due to the beans, it is ideal for a balanced diet. Additionally, carrots and herbs add essential vitamins, contributing to the health of the immune system.

So now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to start cooking! With just a few simple ingredients and a creative approach, you will create a tasty and healthy salad that will surely become a favorite on your menu. Enjoy your meal!