Greek Island Salad with Chicken & Avocado: A Healthy and Refreshing Recipe

Greek Island Salad with Chicken and Avocado: A Mediterranean Delight

Greek island salad with chicken and avocado is a vibrant, refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual buffet or preparing a nutritious family meal, this salad combines the Mediterranean flavors of feta cheese, olives, and oregano with the creaminess of avocado and the protein-packed goodness of chicken.

This dish is versatile, easy to prepare, and full of health benefits. Packed with healthy fats, lean protein, and essential vitamins, it’s an ideal option for those looking to enjoy a flavorful yet nutritious meal. Let’s dive into how you can create this delicious Greek-inspired recipe at home.

Why You’ll Love Greek Island Salad

This Greek island salad is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of wholesome ingredients and Mediterranean flavors. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

1. Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Avocados, chicken, and fresh vegetables provide a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
2. Low Carb, High Protein: With minimal carbohydrates and a healthy dose of protein, this salad is perfect for those on a low-carb or keto diet.
3. Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is great for busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings.
4. Versatile Pairings: Pair it with pita bread or serve it as a side dish for grilled meats.

Ingredients for Greek Island Salad

The ingredients for this recipe are simple, fresh, and easy to find at any grocery store:

Main Salad Ingredients:

• 1.8 kg roasted chicken (room temperature)
• 2 hearts of romaine lettuce
• 4 ripe tomatoes
• 3 spring onions (white and green parts)
• 2 ripe avocados
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (plus extra for squeezing)
• 200g feta cheese
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried mint
• Half a bunch of flat-leaf parsley
• 2 tablespoons black Kalamata olives

For the Dressing:

• 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Optional: Serve with pita bread for added texture and flavor.

How to Make Greek Island Salad with Chicken & Avocado

Prepare the Ingredients

1. Chicken: Pull the meat from the roasted chicken and shred it roughly into bite-sized pieces.
2. Lettuce: Trim the bases of the romaine hearts, wash and dry the leaves, then shred them roughly.
3. Tomatoes: Cut the tomatoes into wedges for a chunky, fresh texture.
4. Spring Onions: Finely slice the spring onions, using both the white and green parts for added flavor.
5. Avocados: Cut the avocados in half lengthways, remove the stones, and peel them. Slice them crosswise and drizzle with lemon juice to prevent browning.

 Make the Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of lemon juice, 5 tablespoons of olive oil, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

 Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, and spring onions.
2. Gently fold in three-quarters of the dressing, ensuring the ingredients are evenly coated.
3. Carefully add the avocado slices to the mixture, taking care not to break them.

 Garnish and Serve

1. Crumble the feta cheese with your fingers and toss it with dried oregano and mint. Sprinkle it over the salad.
2. Scatter the black Kalamata olives and flat-leaf parsley leaves on top.
3. Drizzle the remaining dressing over the salad. For an extra burst of freshness, squeeze additional lemon juice on top.
4. Serve immediately, with pita bread on the side if desired.

Nutrition Information

This Greek island salad is not only delicious but also a healthy choice. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 521 kcal
• Protein: 31g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fat: 42g (12g saturated fat)
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 2.05g

Health Benefits of Greek Island Salad

1. Rich in Healthy Fats: The avocados and olive oil provide monounsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health and lower bad cholesterol.
2. High in Protein: The roasted chicken ensures this salad is filling and promotes muscle repair and growth.
3. Packed with Antioxidants: Ingredients like tomatoes, parsley, and olives are rich in antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and protect against disease.
4. Low Carb Option: With only 5g of carbohydrates per serving, this salad is suitable for low-carb and keto diets.

Tips for Perfect Greek Island Salad

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for ripe avocados, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes to enhance the flavors of the salad.
2. Balance the Seasoning: The lemon juice and olive oil dressing should be tangy and well-seasoned to tie the flavors together.
3. Customize to Taste: Add your favorite ingredients like cucumbers, bell peppers, or grilled zucchini for extra crunch.

Internal Linking

• Avocado Tomato Mozzarella Salad Recipe
• Top 15 Best Tomato Recipes for Summer
• Healthy Salad Recipes for Weight Loss

Final Thoughts

Greek island salad with chicken and avocado is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that brings the essence of the Mediterranean to your plate. This recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, making it a perfect choice for any meal. Whether you’re a fan of healthy salads or looking for a unique dish to impress your guests, this salad checks all the boxes.

So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the refreshing taste of the Mediterranean right in your kitchen. Happy cooking!