Souper Salad: The Ultimate Meal-in-a-Bowl Experience, a time-saving recipe that your family will love!

Tired of choosing between a light salad and a hearty soup? Look no further than the Souper Salad, a culinary innovation that combines the best of both worlds. This clever dish transforms a simple green salad into a satisfying meal by topping it with warm, protein-packed lentils and tender chicken.

Imagine the perfect balance of crisp, cool greens and warm, comforting lentils in every bite. The contrast of temperatures and textures creates a truly unique dining experience that will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive lunch to pack for work, this Souper Salad has got you covered.

This recipe draws inspiration from Mediterranean cuisine, where beans and lentils are often paired with fresh vegetables for a nutritious and delicious meal. Not only is it a feast for your taste buds, but it’s also a nutritional powerhouse. Lentils provide fiber and plant-based protein, while the colorful array of vegetables offers a variety of vitamins and antioxidants. Pair this Souper Salad with crusty whole-grain bread for a complete and balanced meal.

Souper Salad
Souper Salad

Souper Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

4 cups mixed salad greens

1 cup cooked lentils, warm

1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup cucumber, diced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or mint)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cucumber.

2. In a small saucepan, gently warm the cooked lentils over low heat.

3. While the lentils are warming, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to create the dressing.

4. Toss the salad with half of the dressing.

5. Divide the dressed salad between two large bowls or plates.

6. Top each salad with warm lentils and diced chicken.

7. Drizzle the remaining dressing over the lentils and chicken.

8. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh herbs over the top.

9. Serve immediately and enjoy your Souper Salad!

Air fryer instructions:

If you prefer to use an air fryer for the chicken, follow these steps:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

2. Season chicken breast with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs.

3. Place the chicken in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

4. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before dicing and adding to the salad.

Notes:

  • Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with roasted chickpeas or tofu
  • For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative
  • Try different types of lentils for variety in texture and flavor
  • Add a handful of toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch

Nutrition Information

Serving size: 1 salad (half of the recipe)

Calories: 420

Fat: 22g

Protein: 35g

Carbohydrates: 30g

Fiber: 10g

Sodium: 380mg

Other Information

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 5 minutes (for warming lentils)

Equipment used: Small saucepan, mixing bowls, whisk

Estimated cost per serving: $3.50

Total cost: $7.00

In Conclusion, Souper Salad

In conclusion, the Souper Salad is a versatile and nutritious meal that combines the freshness of a salad with the heartiness of a soup. By incorporating protein-rich ingredients like lentils and chicken, this dish transforms a simple salad into a satisfying main course. It’s an excellent option for those looking to increase their vegetable intake while still enjoying a filling meal.

Find more Cheap Cheerful meals here!

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