I’ve found this nutrient-packed salad to be an excellent addition to a healthy lifestyle. Not only does it provide a satisfying crunch, but each ingredient has been specifically chosen for its health-promoting properties.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of fresh, raw vegetables with lean protein creates a perfectly balanced meal that’s both filling and nutritious. The yogurt-based dressing adds creaminess without excess calories, while the mix of textures keeps every bite interesting.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 3-4 celery stalks, finely sliced
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1 apple (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- 1 cooked chicken breast (6-8 oz/170-225g), diced
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
- Salt to taste
For the Yogurt Dressing
- ⅔ cup (150g) plain yogurt
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Fresh lemon juice to taste
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Vegetables
- Wash all produce thoroughly.
- Trim celery stalks and slice them very thinly on a diagonal.
- Cut cucumber in half lengthwise, remove seeds if desired, then dice into small cubes.
- Peel and julienne the carrot into thin matchsticks.
- Core the apple and cut into small cubes.
- Finely chop fresh chives.
Preparing the Chicken
- Dice the cooked chicken breast into small, bite-sized cubes.
Making the Dressing
- In a small bowl, combine plain yogurt and mustard.
- Add fresh lemon juice to taste.
- Season with salt.
- Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Assembling the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine:
- Sliced celery
- Diced cucumber
- Julienned carrot
- Diced apple
- Chopped chives
- Diced chicken
- Pour the yogurt dressing over the ingredients.
- Toss gently to combine, ensuring even distribution of the dressing.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours
- For best results, keep dressing separate until ready to serve
- Add apple just before serving to prevent browning
- Store cut vegetables in cold water to maintain crispness
Nutritional Information
(Per serving, serves 4)
- Calories: 165
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 280mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 17g
Health Benefits
Celery
- Natural anti-inflammatory properties
- Supports joint health
- Rich in antioxidants
- Aids in digestion
Cucumber
- Natural diuretic properties
- High water content for hydration
- Low in calories
- Supports digestive health
Apple
- High in dietary fiber
- Promotes healthy digestion
- Contains beneficial antioxidants
- Supports heart health
Carrot
- Rich in beta-carotene
- Helps lower cholesterol
- Supports eye health
- High in fiber
Chicken Breast
- Lean protein source
- Supports muscle health
- Aids in immune function
- Promotes satiety
Chives
- Natural antibacterial properties
- Rich in vitamin A
- Supports eye health
- Contains beneficial antioxidants
Expert Tips
- Use a sharp knife for clean cuts of vegetables
- Choose crisp, fresh produce for best results
- Opt for Greek yogurt in the dressing for extra protein
- Toast some nuts or seeds to add for extra crunch
- Prepare extra dressing to have on hand for the week
- Consider using rotisserie chicken for convenience
- Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor
This healthy salad is perfect for anyone looking to improve their diet while enjoying delicious, satisfying meals. Its combination of fresh vegetables, lean protein, and light dressing makes it an excellent choice for weight management and overall health support.
