Description
A fresh and nutritious weight loss salad featuring mixed greens, colorful vegetables, lean grilled chicken breast, and a tangy homemade dressing. Packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats, this salad is a perfect light meal to support your weight loss goals while keeping you satisfied and energized.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine lettuce)
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 3 oz grilled chicken breast (or another lean protein like turkey or tofu)
- 2 tbsp sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds (for crunch)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for tang)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, diced avocado, and shredded carrots. Toss gently to mix all the ingredients evenly.
- Add the Protein: Slice your grilled chicken breast or chosen lean protein into bite-sized pieces, then add it to the salad mixture to boost protein content and make the meal more filling.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning as needed for your preferred balance of tanginess and saltiness.
- Assemble the Salad: Drizzle the freshly made dressing over the salad in the large bowl, then toss gently to ensure every ingredient is coated with the dressing without bruising the delicate greens.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the sunflower or pumpkin seeds on top to add a satisfying crunch. If desired, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a fresh aromatic touch.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy this vibrant and healthy weight loss salad fresh to experience the best flavors and textures. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute chicken breast with turkey, tofu, or other lean proteins to suit dietary preferences.
- For a vegan version, omit the chicken and perhaps add chickpeas or lentils for protein.
- You can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add some lemon zest or fresh herbs like basil for additional flavor variations.
- If avoiding seeds or nuts, omit sunflower or pumpkin seeds or replace with toasted nuts if preferred.
