Chicken and Broccoli Salad with Avocado Pesto

Certified nutritionist

Elina Balode

"When it comes to the world of healthy eating, salads have always held a special place. Not only are they a vibrant canvas of colors and flavors, but they also offer endless possibilities to cater to a variety of dietary preferences. One such dietary trend that has gained immense popularity in recent years is the ketogenic diet, characterized by low carbohydrate intake and a focus on healthy fats. In this article, we'll explore the diverse world of salads and how they can seamlessly fit into a ketogenic diet. We'll also delve into the delightful realm of pesto, comparing it to traditional sauces, and discover the wonders of avocado pesto. Additionally, we'll uncover the health benefits of broccoli and its impact on your body. So, let's embark on this flavorful journey together!"

Salads: A Bounty of Diversity

Salads are not just a plate of greens; they are a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. From crisp, leafy greens to crunchy veggies, succulent proteins, and a plethora of dressings, the options are endless. The beauty of salads lies in their adaptability; you can customize them to suit your tastes and dietary needs.

Keto Recipes with Chicken

If you're on a ketogenic diet and love chicken, you're in luck! Chicken is a versatile and keto-friendly protein option. Incorporating chicken into your salads can be both delicious and satisfying. Consider crafting a chicken Caesar salad with homemade Caesar dressing using healthy fats like olive oil and anchovies. You can also whip up a zesty buffalo chicken salad, complete with creamy avocado dressing and a sprinkle of blue cheese. These clean keto recipes are not only mouthwatering but also align with your low-carb goals.

The Pesto Perspective

Now, let's talk about pesto, the green and aromatic sauce that has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. Pesto is a keto champion, thanks to its key ingredients: basil, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. Traditional pasta sauces are often loaded with carbs, but pesto offers a flavorful alternative. Its rich taste and vibrant green color make it a delightful addition to your keto journey.

Avocado Pesto: A Keto Dream

While traditional pesto is already keto-friendly, avocado pesto takes it up a notch. Avocado's creamy texture adds a luscious element to the sauce, making it even more satisfying. You can use avocado pesto as a dip, a salad dressing, or a topping for your favorite keto-friendly dishes. It not only enhances the flavor but also provides healthy fats and essential nutrients.

Broccoli: The Keto Superstar

No discussion of salads on a ketogenic diet is complete without mentioning broccoli. This green cruciferous vegetable is a keto superstar. With minimal carbs and a high fiber content, broccoli is an excellent addition to your clean keto recipes. It's rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support your overall health.

Impact on Your Body

Including salads, chicken, pesto, and broccoli in your ketogenic diet can have a profound impact on your body. You'll enjoy stable blood sugar levels, increased fat burning, improved mental clarity, and sustained energy throughout the day. Plus, the vitamins and minerals in these foods will keep you feeling vibrant and healthy.

Chicken and pesto salad recipe:

Ingredients:

• 100g broccoli

• 170g chicken

• 80g avocado

• 15g walnuts

• 40g green lettuce leaves

• 20g red onion

• Drizzle of olive oil (optional)

• 10g basil (optional)

• Pinch of garlic (optional)

• 5g mustard (optional)

• 10g lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

1. Boil broccoli for about 2 minutes and remove from the pot.

2. Heat olive oil on a pan and cook broccoli for about 2 - 3 minutes.

3. Sprinkle spices on chicken fillet and cook for 3 - 4 minutes from each side. Put aside to cool and cut into smaller pieces.

4. To prepare pesto blend or mash basil, avocado, garlic clove, walnuts, olive oil, lemon juice and a bit of water. If you want you can add spices, except salt.

5. Put lettuce leaves on a plate and add broccoli, thinly chopped red onion, lemon juice and chicken fillet. Toss to combine.

6. On top add a few basil leaves and sprinkle some flaxseed.

7. Serve with avocado pesto.

Incorporating salads into your ketogenic diet is a flavorful and nutritious way to stay on track with your clean keto journey. Chicken keto recipes offer endless possibilities for creating delicious and satisfying meals. Pesto, especially avocado pesto, adds an extra layer of taste and healthy fats to your dishes. And don't forget the keto superstar, broccoli, which brings a wealth of nutrients to your plate.

So, embrace the diversity of salads and the keto lifestyle, and let your taste buds savor the delicious and wholesome world of clean keto recipes. With salads as your canvas, you have the power to create culinary masterpieces that not only tantalize your taste buds but also support your health and well-being. Enjoy your keto adventure!