We are experiencing a heat wave this weekend, which is unusual this early in the season, here in the mountains. Heck, it's not technically even summer yet. Because we don't have air conditioning in our home, we have all the windows wide open, and ceiling fans whirring away in every room.I wouldn't even consider baking anything! I don't even want to use the stovetop when it is this hot. In fact, I don't want anything hot to eat. I like getting adventurous with salads and sandwiches in the summer. Yes, and grilling.
But don't get me wrong. . .I love summer! It is by far my favorite season. I like the fresh air from having the windows open, love hearing the birds singing, the neighbors' children playing, the smell of their barbecues. I like the pastel hues of spring, but I really adore the brilliant colors of summer. Not to mention the summer fruits and vegetables.
Cherry Blue Chicken Salad
4 - 5 cups shredded chicken (I used a deli rotisserie chicken)
About 1 lb. fresh cherries, pitted and halved
2 stalks celery, sliced
1 small Vidalia onion, minced
1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
4 oz. blue cheese, diced
Dressing
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
1 tsp. sugar or honey
1 - 2 cloves garlic, crushed
Mix the dressing first, and chill while preparing the rest of the salad. Toss all the salad ingredients together then fold in the dressing. Chill the salad for an hour or two, if you can, for the best flavor. Even better the next day.
That sounds like such an interesting flavor combination! I like nuts in my chicken salad and fruit. What blue cheese did you use? Mine usually doesn't dice very well it's more of a crumble.
ReplyDeleteSusi, I went and got the package out of the recycling bin just for you. It is a Danish Blue Cheese, brand name Rosenborg Castello. I'm no blue cheese expert, and if had crumbled rather than dice, I wouldn't have cried.
ReplyDeleteOh I love Danish Blue Cheese, I think I've seen that brand at the store. I will look for it! Oh and I really appreciate you digging through the trash for me ;o)
ReplyDeleteThat's a great twist on chicken salad, I'll have to make it for my girlfriend she's nuts about cherries.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful salad. It is really perfect summer eating. I am new to your blog and have spent some time playing catch-up with your earlier posts. I really love your recipes and will be back often to see what else you've been cooking. I hope you are having a wonderful day. Blessings...Mary
ReplyDeleteThis sounds and looks delicious! A great thing for summer, for sure!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great idea. I just got a bunch of sweet cherries that are awesome. Can't wait to try this recipe!
ReplyDeleteCarolyn
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