Description
A vibrant and refreshing salad blending grilled chicken with strawberries, Gala apples, and dried cranberries. The homemade strawberry vinaigrette ties together the creamy mozzarella, nutty walnuts, and crisp greens for a balanced summer dish.
Ingredients
6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6–8 oz total)
2 teaspoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup strawberries (hulled and quartered)
1 gala apple (thinly sliced)
1/2 cup craisins (dried cranberries)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup walnuts, crushed and toasted
For the dressing: 1 shallot (finely chopped)
For the dressing: 2 tablespoons honey
For the dressing: 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
For the dressing: 1/4 cup olive oil
For the dressing: 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Instructions
Wash and chop romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces
Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Brush with olive oil and grill 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Let rest, then slice into strips
Cut strawberries into quarters. Thinly slice the gala apple and spread on a baking sheet with craisins. Toast at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until golden (or serve raw for crunch)
In a small pan, sauté shallot with remaining olive oil until softened. Let cool and whisk in honey, Dijon mustard, and balsamic vinegar to create dressing
Assemble salad by layering romaine, chicken, strawberries, apple slices, craisins, and mozzarella. Top with toasted walnuts and drizzle dressing over the salad
Notes
Substitute grilled tofu for chicken in a vegetarian version
Use vegan mozzarella for a dairy-free option
Dressing can be stored separately and added just before serving
Salad keeps in the fridge for up to 3 days in airtight containers (do not pre-toast apples or fruits)
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling & Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1 1/2 cups)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 45mg