Cucumber Melon White Balsamic Cold Chicken & Cucumber Salad

Description:
This cold chicken salad is light, refreshing, and easy to prepare. Cucumber Melon White Balsamic adds crisp brightness with subtle zippiness, while cool cucumbers and tender chicken keep the dish clean and balanced. It’s a simple, no-mayo salad that works well for warm days, light lunches, or make-ahead meals.

Ingredients:
3 cups cooked chicken, chilled and sliced or shredded
2 cups thinly sliced cucumber
¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or parsley

Dressing:
2 tablespoons Arbequina Olive Oil
¼ cup 25-Star Cucumber Melon White Balsamic Vinegar
½ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions:
• In a large bowl, combine the chilled chicken, sliced cucumber, red onion, and herbs.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the Arbequina Olive Oil, Cucumber Melon White Balsamic, salt, and pepper until well blended.
• Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until evenly coated.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
• Chill briefly before serving for the cleanest, most refreshing flavor.

Chef’s Tips:
• For a slightly silkier dressing, whisk in ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard before adding the dressing to the salad.
• Keep all ingredients cold for the freshest texture and flavor.
• Use English or Persian cucumbers for fewer seeds and a crisper bite.

Flavor Variations:
• Swap Arbequina Olive Oil for Herbes de Provence Olive Oil for a more savory, herb-forward version.
• Swap Arbequina Olive Oil for Jalapeño Olive Oil if you want gentle heat layered into the salad.

Pairings:
Crusty bread, chilled rice dishes, fresh fruit, or a simple vegetable side.

Recipe Notes:
This recipe highlights how Cucumber Melon White Balsamic works best in cold dishes. The balsamic provides brightness and subtle zip without heaviness, making it ideal for fresh, clean salads that stay light and refreshing.