If you’re searching for a flavorful yet healthy dish that tantalizes your taste buds, look no further than this Luscious Low Carb Blackberry Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad Delight. This delightful recipe combines juicy chicken with the creamy richness of cottage cheese and the sweet-tart flavor of blackberries, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. With low carbs and high protein, it’s ideal for those on a keto or low-carb diet.
This salad is not just about being healthy; it’s about indulging in vibrant flavors and textures that leave you feeling satisfied. The combination of fresh ingredients creates a refreshing dish that is both nutritious and delicious. Whether you’re prepping for lunch or looking for a quick dinner option, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Luscious Low Carb Blackberry Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad Delight is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. First, it’s high in protein due to the chicken and cottage cheese, making it a filling meal that fuels your body without excessive calories. Second, the use of fresh blackberries adds a unique sweetness that complements the savory elements perfectly, creating an explosion of flavors in every bite.
Key Ingredients
To whip up this delightful salad, gather these key ingredients:
- Cooked Chicken Breast: Shredded or diced, this provides the main protein source.
- Cottage Cheese: A creamy base that enhances texture while keeping the dish low in carbohydrates.
- Blackberries: Fresh and juicy, these add natural sweetness and are packed with antioxidants.
- Celery: Chopped for crunch and freshness, adding a delightful contrast to the creaminess.
- Greek Yogurt: Used as a dressing alternative for added creaminess and tang without excess calories.
- Lemon Juice: A splash brightens the salad while balancing flavors.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds depth and complexity to the dressing.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken breast and cottage cheese until well mixed.
- Add fresh blackberries gently to avoid crushing them; fold them into the mixture carefully.
- Chop celery into small pieces and add it to the bowl along with lemon juice and Dijon mustard.
- Add salt and pepper to taste, mixing everything together until well combined.
- If desired, chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Scoop onto plates or serve in lettuce wraps for a refreshing presentation before digging in!
Expert Tips
Selecting ripe blackberries is crucial; ensure they’re plump and firm for optimal sweetness. If you’re meal-prepping, consider storing components separately until just before serving to maintain freshness. Add herbs like cilantro or parsley for an extra layer of flavor if desired! Finally, don’t hesitate to experiment with other fruits like strawberries or blueberries if you want variety!
Presentation Ideas
This Luscious Low Carb Blackberry Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad Delight can be presented beautifully by serving it in hollowed-out avocados or on crisp lettuce leaves. Consider garnishing with additional blackberries or sprigs of fresh mint for an eye-catching touch. For added flair at gatherings, serve it in individual cups or jars layered with colorful vegetables on top—this not only looks appealing but also makes portion control easier!
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken instead of freshly cooked?
Canned chicken can be used as a convenient substitute; however, ensure you drain and rinse it well to reduce sodium content. Freshly cooked chicken typically offers better flavor and texture but canned chicken makes preparation faster without sacrificing too much quality!
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
This salad is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare all components ahead of time—just keep them separate until serving time. Store in airtight containers in the fridge; consume within three days for best flavor and freshness while enjoying its delightful taste throughout the week!
What are some variations I can try?
You can customize this recipe by adding nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra crunch! Alternatively, substituting different fruits such as peaches or apples provides exciting flavor twists. For added greens, consider mixing baby spinach or arugula into your salad—enhancing both nutrition and visual appeal!
How do I store leftovers?
If you have leftovers from this salad, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should remain fresh for up to three days; however, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly due to moisture absorption from ingredients like blackberries over time!
Luscious Low Carb Blackberry Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad Delight
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
This Luscious Low Carb Blackberry Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad Delight is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring tender chicken, creamy cottage cheese, and sweet-tart blackberries. Ideal for those on a low-carb or keto diet, this salad is not only healthy but also quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for lunch or dinner. Packed with protein and vibrant ingredients, it’s a dish that will satisfy your cravings while keeping you on track with your dietary goals.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken breast and cottage cheese until well mixed.
- Gently fold in the fresh blackberries to avoid crushing them.
- Add the chopped celery, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard to the bowl.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing everything together until well combined.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving if desired.
- Serve on plates or in lettuce wraps for a refreshing presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 85mg