Chilled Asparagus and Chicken Salad Delight
This Chilled Asparagus and Chicken Salad Delight is a refreshing and nutritious dish perfect for spring and summer days. Inspired by a classic Betty Crocker recipe from 1992, this salad combines tender chicken, crunchy walnuts, and sliced almonds, all paired with sweet pineapple chunks and crisp asparagus. Each bite offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it an ideal option for a light lunch or a wholesome snack. Plus, with the added chill time, the flavors meld beautifully, ensuring a burst of freshness with every serving. Enjoy it served on a bed of crisp romaine or red leaf lettuce for an extra pop of color and nutrition.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pineapple chunks
1 (8 ounce can, drained)
Cooked chicken
2 cups (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Walnuts
1/4 cup (chopped)
Sliced almonds
1/4 cup (sliced)
Light mayonnaise
1/4 cup (none)
Asparagus spears
1 cup (cooked and cut into 1 inch pieces)
Romaine or red leaf lettuce
as needed (washed and leaves separated)
Instructions
1
Begin by draining the pineapple chunks and reserving 1 tablespoon of the juice for later use.
2
In a medium bowl, combine the cooked and cut-up chicken, chopped walnuts, sliced almonds, and drained pineapple pieces. Gently mix until evenly distributed.
3
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the reserved pineapple juice and light mayonnaise until smooth and creamy.
4
Pour the mayonnaise mixture over the chicken and pineapple mixture, and gently toss until everything is well coated.
5
Carefully fold in the cooked asparagus pieces, ensuring they are evenly incorporated without breaking them.
6
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
7
When ready to serve, arrange romaine or red leaf lettuce leaves on a serving platter. Spoon the chilled asparagus and chicken salad onto the lettuce leaves and serve cold.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Chilled Asparagus and Chicken Salad Delight?
This is a refreshing salad that combines cooked chicken, asparagus, pineapple chunks, walnuts, and almonds in a light mayonnaise dressing, inspired by a 1992 Betty Crocker recipe.
How long should I refrigerate the salad before serving?
You should cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the dish to chill properly.
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of cooked chicken cut into bite-sized pieces. You can use rotisserie chicken, poached chicken, or grilled chicken breast.
How should the asparagus be prepared?
The asparagus spears should be cooked until tender and then cut into 1-inch pieces before being folded into the salad.
Do I need to save the juice from the pineapple chunks?
Yes, you should reserve 1 tablespoon of the pineapple juice from the 8-ounce can to mix with the light mayonnaise.
What kind of lettuce is recommended for serving?
The salad is best served on a bed of washed and separated romaine or red leaf lettuce leaves.
Can I substitute the light mayonnaise?
While the recipe calls for light mayonnaise, you could substitute it with plain Greek yogurt or a mixture of both for a different flavor profile.
What types of nuts are used in this salad?
This recipe uses a combination of 1/4 cup chopped walnuts and 1/4 cup sliced almonds for a crunchy texture.
Is this recipe easy to make?
Yes, with only 7 ingredients and straightforward mixing steps, this is considered an easy recipe perfect for lunch or snacks.
How do I prevent the asparagus from breaking when mixing?
To keep the asparagus intact, carefully fold the cooked pieces into the mixture last, after the chicken and dressing have been combined.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but ensure you have at least 1 tablespoon of pineapple juice available for the dressing mixture.
Is this salad suitable for a summer meal?
Absolutely, its chilled temperature and refreshing ingredients like pineapple and asparagus make it ideal for spring and summer days.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 main ingredients: pineapple chunks, cooked chicken, walnuts, sliced almonds, light mayonnaise, asparagus spears, and lettuce.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, making it ahead is recommended as the 2-hour chill time is essential for the best flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As long as your mayonnaise and pre-cooked chicken are gluten-free, the core ingredients of this salad are naturally gluten-free.
What is the best way to serve this salad for a party?
Arrange the lettuce leaves on a large serving platter and spoon the chilled salad mixture into the center for an attractive presentation.
Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
While fresh or rotisserie chicken provides better texture, canned chicken can be used in a pinch if drained well.
How do I prepare the dressing?
Whisk together the reserved 1 tablespoon of pineapple juice and 1/4 cup of light mayonnaise in a small bowl until smooth.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes, you could add ingredients like sliced celery or bell peppers for extra crunch if desired.
What size should the pineapple chunks be?
The recipe specifies an 8-ounce can of pineapple chunks; if the pieces are very large, you can cut them in half.
Is this salad considered a healthy option?
Yes, it is tagged as healthy and light, featuring lean protein, green vegetables, and heart-healthy nuts.
Can I substitute the walnuts with other nuts?
Yes, if you prefer, you can use pecans or cashews as a substitute for walnuts.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
While not explicitly stated, the ingredient quantities (2 cups chicken, 1 cup asparagus) typically yield about 4 servings.
Should the chicken be warm or cold when mixing?
It is best to use cooled, cooked chicken so the salad stays at a safe temperature before and during the chilling process.
Does this salad store well as leftovers?
Yes, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though the lettuce should be kept separate until serving.
Why is light mayonnaise used instead of regular?
Light mayonnaise is used to keep the calorie count lower and the overall feel of the dish refreshing and light.
Can I add herbs to this recipe?
Fresh dill or chives would make a wonderful addition to the dressing to enhance the flavor of the chicken and asparagus.
What is the origin of this recipe?
This dish is inspired by a classic Betty Crocker recipe from 1992.
Is the asparagus raw or cooked?
The asparagus should be cooked until tender-crisp before being added to the salad.
What makes this salad 'refreshing'?
The combination of the chilled temperature, the juicy pineapple chunks, and the crisp lettuce provides a burst of freshness.