Smoked Chicken and Mushroom Cheese Salad

This smoked chicken and mushroom cheese salad is a delightful and satisfying dish that's perfect for any season, though it shines in the colder months. The smoky flavor of the chicken, combined with the creamy texture of Holland or cheddar cheese, creates a rich and comforting meal. Using marinated mushrooms adds a tangy element, while ripe tomatoes bring a touch of freshness. This salad is easy to prepare and serves as a substantial appetizer or a light main course. It’s a dish that relies heavily on the quality of its ingredients, so selecting the best ones makes all the difference. With a blend of mayonnaise and tomato sauce, the dressing ties everything together perfectly. Simple yet flavorful, this salad is a fantastic option when you’re looking to impress without much fuss. Enjoy it on its own, or pair it with fresh, crusty bread for a more complete experience. This recipe allows for creativity with substitutions and additions, catering to various tastes and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1/2 smoked chicken
• 2 medium-sized ripe tomatoes
• 500 g marinated mushrooms
• 200 g Holland cheese, grated
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 200 g mayonnaise
• 50 g tomato sauce
• 1/3 tsp salt

Preparation Time

25 min (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Begin by preparing all your ingredients. **Grate** the Holland cheese with a medium-coarse grater and set it aside.
2. Next, take the smoked chicken and remove the skin, if any. **Shred** the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
3. Cut the tomatoes into small cubes, ensuring they are ripe and soft for optimal flavor.
4. Finely **chop** the small onion. This will add a bit of crunch and a pungent bite to the salad.
5. In a large mixing bowl, **combine** the shredded chicken, cubed tomatoes, chopped onions, and marinated mushrooms.
6. Add the grated Holland cheese to the mixture. Ensure that the cheese you select is of good quality for the best flavor.
7. Season the mixture with a bit of salt, keeping in mind that the smoked chicken and cheese might already be salty.
8. In a separate bowl, **mix** mayonnaise and tomato sauce to prepare the dressing.
9. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients, and gently **toss** until everything is well-coated.
10. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If it needs a bit more tang, consider adding a splash of lemon juice.
11. Transfer the salad to a serving dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
12. For an added touch, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives if available.
13. Place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
14. Once chilled, the salad is ready to be served.
15. For a more substantial meal, serve with warm, toasted bread or crispy crackers.
16. Feel free to add additional veggies like sliced cucumbers or sweet bell peppers for more crunch.
17. If you prefer a lighter version, use low-fat mayonnaise or replace it with Greek yogurt.
18. This salad is also excellent with some added heat; try sprinkling red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
19. If you run out of marinated mushrooms, fresh sautéed mushrooms work well too.
20. Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Tips

• **Quality** matters, so choose the best available ingredients.
• Smoked chicken can be substituted with grilled chicken for a milder flavor.
• In place of tomatoes, consider using fresh cucumber for a crisp texture.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add more mushrooms or chickpeas.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Protein: 15 g
• Fats: 28 g
• Carbs: 10 g

Variations

• For a vegan version, use tofu in place of chicken and a vegan cheese substitute.
• Add nuts like almonds or walnuts for a crunchier texture.
• Experiment with herbs like dill or basil to give a unique flavor profile to the salad.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the salad in chilled bowls to maintain its refreshing taste.
• Add a side of garlic toast or parmesan crisps for a delightful pairing.
• Complement the meal with a light white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Best Places

Here is a list of the Top 10 places worldwide to enjoy similar delightful dishes:

1. Le Café des Boulots - A cozy cafe serving hearty cheese and mushroom salads. Location: 45 Rue Montmartre, Paris, France.
2. Trattoria Luigi - Known for its smoked meats and creative salads. Location: Via Roma 23, Florence, Italy.
3. The Rustic Bowl - Famous for its fresh salads and vibrant atmosphere. Location: 789 High Street, Edinburgh, Scotland.
4. Café Stella - Offers a gourmet twist on classic dishes. Location: 123 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, USA.
5. Green Leaf Cuisine - Renowned for their farm-to-table salads. Location: 245 Auckland Drive, Sydney, Australia.
6. Bistro Gourmet - A charming spot with a focus on local ingredients. Location: 15 King Street, Wellington, New Zealand.
7. Salad & Smoke - This restaurant combines smoked flavors with fresh produce. Location: 2000 Market Street, San Francisco, USA.
8. Café Central - Known for its delightful array of salads and sides. Location: 10 Albert Street, Auckland, New Zealand.
9. La Table de Sophie - Offers a unique blend of flavors and fresh ingredients. Location: 85 Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.
10. Gourmet Greens - A popular hangout with a vast selection of salads. Location: 500 Main Avenue, Toronto, Canada.