Whole30 Chinese Chicken Salad with Dates (Paleo, Gluten Free)
As the sun sets on a balmy evening, I love to relive summer memories through my cooking. One recipe that brings back feelings of warmth and coziness is my Whole30 Chinese Chicken Salad with Dates. Picture this: a vibrant salad bursting with crisp vegetables, tender chicken, and luscious dates that add a hint of sweetness. This dish is perfect for any weeknight dinner, offering a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. In this post, I’ll share this delightful recipe that makes for an easy weeknight dinner and will surely become a staple in your kitchen. So, grab your cutting board and let’s dive into this delightful creation — this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with lean protein and colorful veggies, this salad is a nourishing choice for any meal.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in a snap, allowing you more time to relax.
- No Cooking Required: With pre-cooked chicken and fresh ingredients, you’ll love how simple it is to prepare.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The sweet and savory sesame dressing complements the crunchy textures, making it a favorite among family and friends.
- Adaptable: With healthy ingredients, this recipe is perfect for those following Whole30, Paleo, or gluten-free diets.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Whole30 Chinese Chicken Salad with Dates (Paleo, Gluten Free)
- 2 cups cubed cooked chicken (about 2lb raw)
- 4 cups romaine lettuce
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 2 Natural Delights® pitted medjool dates (chopped)
- 2 green onions (chopped)
- Optional sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 Natural Delights® pitted medjool dates
- 3 tbsp coconut aminos
- 3 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 garlic clove (peeled)
- 1/2 inch ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s Make It Together
Begin by combining all ingredients for the sesame dressing in a blender. Let the dates soak and soften while you chop and put together the salad.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, red cabbage, shredded carrots, cubed chicken, sliced almonds, chopped dates, and green onions. Set aside the sesame seeds for garnishing later.
Once the dates have softened, blend all the dressing ingredients until smooth and creamy.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well-coated and the vibrant colors shine through.
If using, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for an added touch before serving!
Variations & Creative Twists
- Tropical Delight: Add fresh pineapple or mango for a zesty twist that brightens up the salad with fruity sweetness.
- Rich & Creamy: Blend in a scoop of creamy avocado to the dressing for an indulgent and velvety texture.
- Spice It Up: Toss in a pinch of chili flakes or sriracha to the dressing for a kick of heat that will wake up your taste buds.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in some fresh cilantro or mint to introduce an aromatic element that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the salad ingredients and dressing separately a day ahead. Just toss together right before serving to keep everything fresh.
- Ingredient Swaps: You can easily substitute the chicken with shredded rotisserie turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Chopping Tricks: Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly thin carrots and cabbage to enhance the texture of your salad.
- Storing Leftovers: Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed within 2 days.
What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sugar: 8g
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 24g
- Sodium: 300mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this ahead? Absolutely! Just store the dressing and salad ingredients separately in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
- Can I use different ingredients? Yes! Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins based on what you have at home.
- How do I store leftovers? Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days for optimal freshness.
- How long does it last? The salad is best consumed within two days, but the dressing can last up to a week refrigerated.
Wrapping It Up
This Whole30 Chinese Chicken Salad with Dates is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a comforting dish that warms the soul. It beautifully combines fresh and vibrant ingredients, making each bite a delicious experience that you and your loved ones will savor. Whether you’re preparing it for a easy weeknight dinner or a delightful lunch, it’s bound to impress!
Be sure to save this Whole30 Chinese Chicken Salad with Dates (Paleo, Gluten Free) to your Cozy Meal Ideas board so it’s ready when you need a wholesome treat! Enjoy every delicious bite!
Whole30 Chinese Chicken Salad with Dates
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo, Gluten Free
Description
A vibrant salad bursting with crisp vegetables, tender chicken, and luscious dates that add a hint of sweetness, perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cubed cooked chicken (about 2lb raw)
- 4 cups romaine lettuce
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 4 Natural Delights® pitted medjool dates (chopped)
- 2 green onions (chopped)
- Optional sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 3 tbsp coconut aminos
- 3 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 garlic clove (peeled)
- 1/2 inch ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
Instructions
- Begin by combining all ingredients for the sesame dressing in a blender. Let the dates soak and soften while you chop and put together the salad.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, red cabbage, shredded carrots, cubed chicken, sliced almonds, chopped dates, and green onions. Set aside the sesame seeds for garnishing later.
- Once the dates have softened, blend all the dressing ingredients until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well-coated and the vibrant colors shine through.
- If using, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for an added touch before serving!
Notes
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the salad ingredients and dressing separately a day ahead; just toss together right before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No Cooking Required
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
