Ingredients
Creating a dish that not only tastes delicious but also tells a story starts with choosing the right ingredients. For this Santa Fe Salad with Chicken, you’ll need:
– Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Olive oil
– Chili powder
– Cumin
– Salt and pepper
– Mixed salad greens (such as romaine or spinach)
– Cherry tomatoes, halved
– Black beans, rinsed and drained
– Corn kernels (fresh or canned)
– Red onion, thinly sliced
– Avocado, sliced
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
– Fresh cilantro, chopped
– Lime wedges
For the dressing:
– Fresh lime juice
– Olive oil
– Garlic, minced
– Honey
– Salt and pepper
Each ingredient was carefully selected to honor the traditional flavors while adding my personal touch, reminiscent of the way Mama Lou would adapt recipes to make them truly her own.
Instructions
Crafting this delightful salad is a journey as rewarding as the final dish:
1. **Prepare the Chicken**: Start by marinating the chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Allow the flavors to meld for at least 30 minutes.
2. **Grill the Chicken**: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Let it rest before slicing.
3. **Assemble the Salad**: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, red onion, and avocado. Toss gently to mix.
4. **Make the Dressing**: Whisk together lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. **Combine and Serve**: Arrange the sliced chicken on top of the salad. Drizzle with the dressing, sprinkle with shredded cheese and cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Each step brings you closer to recreating the magic of that first unforgettable evening at Mama Lou’s table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International