Summer Mexican Salad

This delightful summer salad stands out for its refreshing mix of flavors and vibrant colors. It’s a perfect dish for barbecues or outdoor gatherings, offering a light yet satisfying meal. The salad features grilled chicken as its centerpiece, complemented by the earthy taste of brown rice and the creamy texture of avocado. Fresh vegetables like tomatoes and onions add a burst of freshness, while a hint of chili and cilantro injects a Mexican flair. Simple to prepare yet rich in taste, it's both healthy and appetizing. The combination of tangy lemon juice and spicy chili dressing enhances the flavors, making it a must-try during the warm months. It's versatile and can be adapted for different flavor preferences. This dish is not only delicious but also wonderfully wholesome, perfect for enjoying sunny days. Enjoy the fresh taste and nutrient-packed goodness of this delightful summer treat!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

Chicken breast fillet
Brown rice
Canned red beans (in brine)
Avocado
Tomatoes
Onion

Spices and Sauces

Fresh cilantro
Lemon
Olive oil
Chili

Preparation Time

Total: 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Boil a pot of water using three parts water to two parts brown rice. Simmer on low heat for 30 minutes until the rice is tender.
Grill the chicken until it’s crispy on the outside and cooked through inside. To check doneness, cut into the thickest part of the chicken. If the juices run clear, it's ready; if pink, cook longer.
In a separate bowl, chop the tomatoes, fresh cilantro, and finely chop the onion. Add a chopped chili and squeeze half a lemon over the mixture as a fresh salsa.
Choose a ripe avocado that is soft to the touch. Cut it in half, and scoop out the flesh using a spoon. Mash with a fork until creamy, add a tablespoon of olive oil, the remaining lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
Rinse the cooked rice under cold water and mix it with the rinsed red beans. Add the tomato salsa to the rice and beans, stirring well to combine.
To serve, layer the rice and bean mixture with sliced grilled chicken, topped with the avocado mixture. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and a lemon wedge for added zest.
Enjoy your healthy and refreshing Mexican-inspired salad!

Tips

Grilling Substitute: If a grill is unavailable, use a waffle pan for the chicken.
Avocado Ripeness: Ensure the avocado is ripe for the best texture; it should give slightly under pressure.
Salsa Balance: Adjust the amount of chili and lemon to suit your taste preference.

Nutritions

Calories: 350 per serving
Protein: 25g
Fats: 15g
Carbohydrates: 35g

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh.
Low-Carb Version: Substitute brown rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter option.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a light tortilla soup or a side of more grilled vegetables.
Add a margarita or lemonade for a refreshing beverage choice.

Best Places

The Salad Bar - Known for its fresh, vibrant salad options. Location: 123 Healthy Blvd, Los Angeles, USA.
Green Gourmet Café - Offers unique, mouth-watering salads and light bites. Location: 45 Greenway Terrace, Sydney, Australia.
Fresh Feast Bistro - Specializes in organic and fresh ingredients for basic delightful salads. Location: 60 Vine St, Toronto, Canada.
Tropical Salads & More - Tropical-inspired salads make this place a paradise. Location: 99 Bamboo Parkway, Miami, USA.
Garden of Eat'n - Noted for their garden-fresh salads and homey ambiance. Location: 302 Green Lane, London, UK.
Leafy Greens & More - Offers an array of creative salads in a lively setting. Location: 78 Orchard Rd, Singapore City, Singapore.
Salad Symphony - Celebrates fresh, local ingredients in artistic presentations. Location: 200 Symphony Court, Vienna, Austria.
Veggie Delights - A hidden gem for fresh, top-notch veggie salads. Location: 15 Veggie Ln, Kyoto, Japan.
Crisp Creations - Known for their crisp, creative, and colorful salads. Location: 4 Waterfall Street, Cape Town, South Africa.
Vibrant Veg Café - Celebrated for vibrant and hearty salad bowls. Location: 87 Vibrant Alley, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.