Kartaini Auglu Salati with Chicken and Cheese

This delightful salad recipe combines the freshness of fruits with the savory notes of chicken and cheese to create a fulfilling and delicious dish. Perfect for both light lunches and festive dinners, this salad will become a favorite in your household. The contrast of juicy apples, sweet bananas, and tangy pineapples with the robust taste of Džiugas cheese creates a harmonious blend. The dish is further elevated by a unique lemon-chili dressing that ties all the flavors together, ensuring each bite is as exciting as the last. Not only is this salad versatile, but it's also visually appealing, making it a great centerpiece for your table. It's a balanced meal that offers plenty of flexibility for dietary adjustments. Whether you are entertaining guests or just treating yourself, this salad is sure to impress with its rich flavors and textures. The addition of smoked or boiled chicken provides a protein boost, making it not just tasty but also nourishing. Finished off with aesthetic layering, this salad is the perfect synthesis of color, taste, and nutrition!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Chicken fillet (boiled or smoked)
• Apple
• Banana
• Pineapple (fresh or canned)
• Džiugas cheese

Dressing

• 1 Egg
• 1 Lemon
• 2 tsp Sugar
• Chili peppers
• Džiugas cheese

Preparation Time

Total: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Start by preparing the dressing. In a small bowl, mix the egg with sugar, whisking them together until well combined.
2. Squeeze the juice of one lemon into the mixture, stirring gently to integrate the flavors.
3. Place the bowl over low heat and continuously stir until the mixture thickens to your desired consistency.
4. Incorporate grated Džiugas cheese (about 2 teaspoons) into the thickened mixture, and let it melt completely. Set aside to cool.
5. For the salad, begin by grating more of the Džiugas cheese using a fine grater.
6. Slice the chicken fillet into small cubes and toss it into a large mixing bowl.
7. Next, peel and dice the apple into similar-sized cubes and add them to the mix.
8. Continue with the banana, cutting it into tidy pieces and mixing it into the bowl.
9. Cut the pineapple into cubes if using fresh; otherwise, drain canned pineapple before cubing it and adding it to the salad.
10. Thoroughly mix all the ingredients in the bowl to ensure even distribution.
11. Layering the salad is key for presentation. Use a cylindrical mold or small bowl to carefully layer salad ingredients, pressing firmly to compact them.
12. Pour a generous amount of the prepared lemon-chili dressing over one layer before adding an additional layer of salad, creating a stack effect.
13. Once the layers are complete, press down gently to hold everything in place and then invert onto a serving plate.
14. Remove the mold carefully, keeping the salad intact as a beautiful tower.
15. For extra flavor intimacy, drizzle some additional dressing on top and around the sides.
16. Garnish with a few thinly sliced chili peppers for a touch of color and heat.
17. Sprinkle some extra grated cheese for an appealing presentation.
18. Refrigerate briefly if needed to allow flavors to meld, but also fine to serve immediately at room temperature.
19. When ready to serve, pair this vibrant salad with some crusty bread or a light soup.
20. Enjoy your flavorful creation, delighted in the combination of textures and tastes that you've crafted!

Tips

• Substitution: Use cooked quinoa instead of chicken for a vegetarian option.
• Flavor Variation: Try using mango instead of bananas for a tropical twist.
• Cheese Choice: If Džiugas cheese is unavailable, pecorino romano makes an excellent alternative.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
• Protein: 18g
• Fats: 12g
• Carbs: 30g

Variations

• Vegan Option: Replace chicken with grilled tofu and swap egg in dressing with a vegan mayonnaise.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure cheese and other pre-packaged items are certified gluten-free.
• Spice Lovers: Add more chili for an extra kick if you enjoy spicier dishes.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside creamy tomato soup for a hearty meal.
• Pair with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc.
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an aromatic touch.

Best Places

• Noma - A renowned restaurant offering unique takes on fresh ingredients. Location: Refshalevej 96, Copenhagen, Denmark.
• The French Laundry - A celebrated spot for gourmet dishes with seasonal produce. Location: 6640 Washington St, Yountville, USA.
• Osteria Francescana - Artful and modern Italian dining experience. Location: Via Stella 22, Modena, Italy.
• El Celler de Can Roca - A family-run venue that pairs inventive dishes with Catalonian flair. Location: Carrer de Can Sunyer 48, Girona, Spain.
• Gaggan - An innovative Thai restaurant with progressive cuisine. Location: 68/1 Soi Langsuan Ploenchit Road, Bangkok, Thailand.
• Central - A celebrated Peruvian restaurant focusing on local biodiversity. Location: Calle Santa Isabel 376, Lima, Peru.
• Mugaritz - Known for its creativity and contemporary Basque cuisine. Location: Aldura Aldea 20, Gipuzkoa, Spain.
• Cosme - Modern Mexican cuisine in a stylish setting. Location: 35 E 21st St, New York, USA.
• Attica - Australian restaurant highlighting native ingredients. Location: 74 Glen Eira Rd, Ripponlea, Australia.
• Le Bernardin - French seafood venue renowned for refined dining. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, USA.