Grilled Chicken Drumsticks with Fresh Salad

This flavorful dish combines marinated grilled chicken drumsticks with a refreshing salad for a complete meal full of taste and texture. The chicken is marinated with a herb seasoning blend, which enhances its natural flavors. Grilling the chicken imparts a smoky aroma that complements the crisp and colorful salad beautifully. With juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and crisp lettuce, the salad is dressed in a light balsamic vinaigrette, topped with semi-hard cheese slices for a creamy finish. A creamy sauce made with sour cream, mayonnaise, and pickled cucumbers adds a delightful accompaniment, balancing the meal with richness and a touch of zest. Ideal for outdoor gatherings or a hearty family dinner, this recipe is a sure crowd-pleaser. Easy to prepare and satisfying to eat, it’s perfect for those summer evenings when you crave something both hearty and refreshing. Pair it with your favorite beverage for a memorable meal experience. Enjoy exploring this dish as you gather loved ones for a delicious culinary adventure.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 700 - 800 g chicken drumsticks
• 2 tomatoes
• 2 small cucumbers
• Lettuce leaves
• 100 g semi-hard cheese
• Balsamic vinaigrette
• Olive oil

Spices:

• 1 pack Santa Maria herb seasoning mix

Sauce Ingredients:

• 100 g sour cream
• 100 g mayonnaise
• 2 pickled cucumbers
• 1/2 tsp horseradish

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 80 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Marinate the Chicken: Rub the chicken drumsticks with the herb seasoning mix. Let them sit for 1 hour to absorb the flavors.
2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill. Once the chicken has marinated for an hour, place it on the grill. Cook until fully done, ensuring the internal temperature reaches a safe level.
3. Prepare the Salad: As the chicken cooks, chop the tomatoes and cucumbers into small pieces. Tear the lettuce leaves into bite-sized pieces.
4. Mix the Salad: Combine the tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce in a large bowl. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and olive oil. Add salt and pepper to taste if needed.
5. Add Cheese: Slice the semi-hard cheese thinly and place it over the salad.
6. Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, blend the sour cream, mayonnaise, and horseradish. Grate the pickled cucumbers and add to the mixture. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
7. Serve the Dish: Once the chicken drumsticks are grilled to perfection, serve them alongside the fresh salad and prepared sauce.
8. Enjoy: Dig in and savor the delicious balance of flavors and textures.

Tips

• Grilling Tip: Use medium heat to avoid burning the chicken before it’s cooked through.
• Cheese Substitution: Parmesan or cheddar can be used as alternatives to semi-hard cheese.
• Vegetarian Variation: Replace chicken with grilled tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian option.

Nutritions

• Calories: 450 per serving
• Protein: 40 g
• Fats: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g

Variations

• Vegan Variation: Replace chicken with plant-based protein such as grilled tempeh or seitan. Use vegan mayonnaise and yogurt as substitutes in the sauce.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially the seasoning mix.

Serving Suggestions

• Sides: Serve with a side of crusty bread or roasted potatoes for a hearty meal.
• Beverage Pairing: Complement the meal with a glass of chilled white wine or mint lemonade.

Best Places

1. The Herb Garden Café - Enjoy farm-to-table meals with a view of lush gardens. Location: 123 Green Lane, Seattle, USA.
2. Grill House Bistro - Renowned for its grilled specialties and relaxed atmosphere. Location: 45 Flame Street, Cape Town, South Africa.
3. Savory Haven - Offers delightful dishes in a cozy setting. Location: 78 Culinary Lane, Melbourne, Australia.
4. Gourmet Grills - A must-visit for a gourmet grilled experience. Location: 19 Barbecue Road, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
5. Fresh Eats Diner - Specializes in fresh and vibrant meals. Location: 32 Harvest Avenue, Toronto, Canada.
6. Garden Delight Restaurant - Enjoy a variety of fresh salads and grilled items. Location: 58 Blossom Boulevard, London, UK.
7. Elemental Eatery - Known for its innovative use of seasonal ingredients. Location: 87 Roots Street, New York, USA.
8. Flavor Fusion - Combines international flavors with local ingredients. Location: 9 Taste Circuit, Singapore.
9. Epicurean's Terrace - Offers a rooftop dining experience with exquisite dishes. Location: 25 Skyview Plaza, Los Angeles, USA.
10. Chef’s Palette - A blend of artistry in food and presentation. Location: 101 Artistry Alley, Paris, France.