A Family Recipe

Here’s a tasty, healthy salad recipe that includes a protein (grilled chicken) and a fruit (apple). This salad is very nutritious and deliscious. I rhymed and didn't even try . It's colorful, and perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Its a family recipe passed down and I'm sharing it with you.

Grilled Chicken, Apple, and Spinach Salad
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients
For the Salad:
2 cups baby spinach (washed and dried)
1 cup arugula (optional, for extra peppery flavor)
1 medium apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and thinly sliced
1/2 cup cooked quinoa (protein-packed and fiber-rich)
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons dried cranberries (for sweetness)
2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or almonds (for crunch and healthy fats)

For the Protein:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Dressing:
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C)
Remove from heat, let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.
Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the baby spinach, arugula (if using), cooked quinoa, apple slices, dried cranberries, and chopped walnuts.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly
Add the Protein:
Divide the salad between two plates or bowls.
Top each portion with sliced grilled chicken and a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese (if using).
Serve:
Serve immediately and enjoy this fresh, healthy, and satisfying salad!

Nutritional Benefits
Protein: The chicken and quinoa provide a complete source of protein, improtantfor muscle repair.
Fruit: Apples add fiber, vitamins (like vitamin C), and natural sweetness.
Healthy Fats: Walnuts and olive oil contribute heart-healthy fats.
Greens: Spinach and arugula are rich in vitamins A, C, K, and antioxidants.
Low-Calorie Dressing: The homemade dressing is light and flavorful without extra calories.

Enjoy!