Published on November 18th, 2023
Chicken salad is incredibly versatile and easy to make. This classic Southern dish is a go-to dish when you’re craving something different that’s also delicious.
It’s also an ideal dish to make use of foods that are going past their prime. Got too much chicken in the kitchen? Make some chicken salad out of it.
It’s good by itself, but you can also add vegetarian sides to liven up your meal.
Check out this guide on surprising vegetarian side dishes for chicken salad.
Roasted Cauliflower With Chickpeas
Roasted cauliflower is a delicious and hearty addition to any meal. When paired with chickpeas, it becomes a protein-packed side dish that complements chicken salad perfectly. Plus, the combination of roasted cauliflower and chickpeas adds a satisfying crunch to your plate.
To make this dish, toss cauliflower florets and drained chickpeas with some olive oil, garlic, and your favorite spices. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast in the oven at 400 degrees for 25-30 minutes.
Serve alongside your chicken salad for a tasty and unexpected twist.
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Cabbage Slaw With Peanut Dressing
Cabbage is an underrated vegetable that deserves more attention. Not only is it incredibly nutritious, but many types of cabbage offer unique flavors and textures.
Purple cabbage, for example, is a vibrant and flavorful option that works well in this side dish.
To make the cabbage slaw, thinly slice purple cabbage and toss it with some grated carrots, chopped fresh herbs (such as cilantro or parsley), and sliced green onions.
For the dressing, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, and sesame oil.
Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes before serving with your chicken salad.
Grilled Eggplant With Balsamic Glaze
Eggplant is a versatile vegetable that can be cooked in various ways – including grilling! Grilled eggplant has a smoky flavor that pairs well with the tangy balsamic glaze. This side dish takes some extra prep time, but it’s well worth the effort.
To make this dish, slice eggplant into 1/2-inch rounds and brush them with olive oil. Grill the eggplant on both sides until charred and tender.
While the eggplant is grilling, make the balsamic glaze by simmering balsamic vinegar with some honey and garlic until thickened. Drizzle the glaze over the grilled eggplant and serve it alongside your chicken salad.
Quinoa Salad With Roasted Vegetables
Quinoa is a complete protein that adds great texture to any dish. In this side dish, quinoa is combined with roasted vegetables for a healthy and satisfying addition to your chicken salad meal.
To make this dish, cook quinoa according to package instructions.
While the quinoa is cooking, toss diced bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion with olive oil and roast in the oven at 400 degrees for 20-25 minutes.
Once the quinoa and vegetables are cooked, mix them and season with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs. Serve alongside your chicken salad for a tasty and unexpected side dish.
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Give Side Dishes For Chicken Salad A Try Today
Incorporating unexpected vegetarian side dishes for chicken salad not only adds variety and nutrition to your meal but also caters to different dietary preferences and restrictions.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with unique ingredients like quinoa, edamame, or roasted cauliflower.
Try out these ideas and elevate your chicken salad game today! Give them a try and discover a new favorite dish.
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Feature Image Source: Anna Pelzer