Chopped Chef Salad

Introduction

Chopped Chef Salad is a hearty and versatile dish, perfect for lunch or a light dinner. This salad is packed with fresh vegetables, proteins like ham and turkey, and a variety of cheeses, all chopped into bite-sized pieces and tossed together. It’s often served with a tangy dressing, making it a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and customizable to your taste.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 cup chopped ham
• 1 cup chopped turkey breast
• 1 cup cubed cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• ½ red onion, chopped
• 1 cup shredded lettuce or mixed greens
• 1 avocado, diced (optional)
• ¼ cup crumbled bacon (optional)

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salad:
   • In a large bowl, combine the chopped ham, turkey, cheddar cheese, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and lettuce.
   • If using, add the diced avocado and crumbled bacon. Toss everything together gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
2. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
   • If desired, add the minced garlic for an extra kick.
3. Assemble the Salad:
   • Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to coat all the ingredients with the dressing evenly.
   • Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Conclusion

Chopped Chef Salad is a quick and delicious way to enjoy a balanced meal with plenty of vegetables and protein. The variety of textures and flavors makes every bite enjoyable, and the dressing ties it all together with a tangy, creamy finish. This salad is not only easy to customize but also perfect for meal prep or a refreshing, satisfying dish on a warm day.