This Blackberry Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is a tasty twist on a classic dish! Juicy chicken, creamy cottage cheese, and sweet blackberries come together for a refreshing meal.
If you’re like me, you appreciate a dish that’s quick to whip up. Just toss everything in a bowl, and you’ve got a healthy and yummy salad in no time. Perfect for lunch! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using poached or rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re vegetarian, chickpeas or tofu can be great substitutes, providing protein while keeping the salad light.
Cottage Cheese: I love using low-fat cottage cheese for a creamy texture. Greek yogurt can be a nice alternative if you want something a bit tangier or creamier.
Blackberries: Fresh blackberries add sweetness. If they’re out of season, you can use frozen blackberries (just thaw and drain them) or substitute with raspberries or blueberries for a similar flavor.
Fresh Greens: Spinach or mixed greens are excellent for this dish. If you want a different flavor, arugula can add a peppery kick. You could even omit greens altogether for a simpler salad.
How Do You Mix the Ingredients Just Right?
Mixing the ingredients without smashing the blackberries can be a bit tricky, but it’s easy! Here’s how to do it:
- In a bowl, first combine the cottage cheese, celery, green onions, and dill. Mix gently to ensure everything is well blended.
- When adding the blackberries, use a rubber spatula and fold them in carefully. This way, you keep their shape and avoid creating a berry mush.
- Once everything is mixed, adjust the seasoning with lemon juice, salt, and pepper, tasting as you go.
Remember, the key is to be gentle and enjoy the process. This salad is not only delicious but also a treat for the eyes with the vibrant colors!
Blackberry Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cooked chicken breasts, sliced
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup fresh blackberries, plus extra for garnish
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves or mixed greens
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 4 slices of crusty bread or toast
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for a leisurely lunch or a light dinner. Just gather your ingredients, toss them together, and you’re ready to eat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese, diced celery, chopped green onions, and fresh dill if you’re using it. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and looks creamy.
2. Add the Blackberries:
Carefully fold in the blackberries, making sure to reserve a few for garnishing later. Be gentle so you don’t crush them; we want those lovely berries to stay whole for that beautiful pop of color!
3. Season the Mixture:
Now, add the lemon juice, along with salt and pepper to your taste. Give it a good stir to make sure the flavors meld together nicely.
4. Prepare the Bread:
Take your slices of crusty bread or toast and lay them on plates. Top each slice with a layer of fresh spinach leaves or mixed greens to add some delicious crunch and freshness.
5. Assemble the Salad:
Spoon the cottage cheese mixture evenly over the spinach on each slice. Don’t be shy—make it generous!
6. Top with Chicken:
Now, add your sliced cooked chicken breast on top of the cottage cheese mixture for that hearty protein boost.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle some extra fresh blackberries over the top for a colorful and tasty garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful salad!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any grilled chicken that you have on hand will work perfectly. Just make sure it’s sliced or shredded before adding it to the salad.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the salad fresh, it’s best to store the bread separately, so it doesn’t become soggy.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! You can replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use a plant-based yogurt in place of cottage cheese for a creamy texture. The salad will still be delicious and nutritious!
What Variations Can I Try?
Feel free to add other ingredients such as diced apples for sweetness, walnuts for crunch, or substitute different berries based on availability. This salad is versatile!
