Looking for a refreshing, wholesome meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner? This Avocado, Chicken Tenderloin, and Egg Spinach Salad brings together the best of protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish. Packed with nutrients, it offers a well-balanced blend of ingredients that will fuel your body while delighting your taste buds.
Why This Salad Stands Out
What makes this salad a must-try? It’s the combination of simple yet nourishing ingredients that come together effortlessly. The creamy avocado adds healthy fats, the chicken tenderloin provides lean protein, while the hard-boiled eggs offer extra richness and texture. Paired with spinach, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing, this salad is both light and filling, making it ideal for anyone looking to eat healthy without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients List
To bring this delicious salad to life, here’s what you’ll need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped or sliced
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken tenderloin, sliced or diced (leftover chicken works well)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (parsley or chives), chopped for garnish
For the Dressing:
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp honey or Dijon mustard (optional for added flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Salad Base: Start by washing and drying the spinach leaves. These vibrant greens serve as the foundation for your salad, providing a nutritious base.
2. Add the Toppings: Slice the avocado and place it on top of the spinach. Next, chop or slice the hard-boiled eggs and distribute them across the salad. Add your sliced or diced chicken tenderloin, followed by the halved cherry tomatoes. If you enjoy a bit of onion for extra flavor, go ahead and add the thinly sliced red onion.
3. Whip Up the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and either honey or Dijon mustard for a subtle sweetness or tang. This simple dressing enhances the natural flavors of the salad without overpowering them.
4. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss all the ingredients together, ensuring that the flavors are evenly distributed.
5. Garnish and Serve: For a finishing touch, sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives on top. Add a little more salt and pepper if needed, and your salad is ready to serve.
Nutritional Benefits of This Salad
This salad is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits:
- Spinach is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C.
- Avocado provides heart-healthy fats and fiber, helping you stay full for longer.
- Chicken tenderloin offers lean protein to support muscle growth and repair.
- Eggs are a great source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients like vitamin D.
- Cherry tomatoes add a burst of flavor and are rich in antioxidants like lycopene.
Perfect for Any Meal
Whether you’re looking for a light yet satisfying lunch or a nutritious dinner, this Avocado, Chicken Tenderloin, and Egg Spinach Salad is the perfect go-to. It’s easy to prepare, packed with wholesome ingredients, and incredibly versatile. You can even modify it to suit your taste by adding extra veggies or swapping the dressing for your favorite vinaigrette.
Enjoy this delightful salad that not only nourishes your body but also pleases your palate!