Ingredients

• Canned pineapples: 1 can
• Canned corn: 1 can
• Eggs: 6-7 large eggs
• Chicken fillet: 350 g
• Chicken seasoning: 1 tablespoon
• Walnuts (halves): 200 g
• Fresh parsley: A handful, chopped
• Mayonnaise: 3-4 tablespoons (or to taste)
• Salt: To taste

Preparation Steps

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cooking Time:

20-25 minutes

Total Time:

40-45 minutes

Servings:

4-6 servings

Calories per Serving:

Approximately 350-400 kcal (varies depending on the amount of mayonnaise used)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Begin by washing the chicken fillet under cold water, removing any excess fat.
2. Season the chicken fillet with 1 tablespoon of chicken seasoning and a pinch of salt.
3. Heat a skillet or frying pan with a little oil and cook the chicken fillet for 7-8 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through.
4. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and allow it to cool. Once cooled, cut the chicken into small cubes or shred it with a fork. Set it aside.

Step 2: Boil the Eggs

1. Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes to achieve hard-boiled eggs.
2. Once the eggs are cooked, remove them from the boiling water and transfer them to a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process. Peel the eggs once they are cool enough to handle, then chop them into small pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Pineapple and Corn

1. Open the canned pineapple and corn. Drain both of them thoroughly to avoid any excess liquid in your salad.
2. Cut the pineapples into small, bite-sized chunks if they aren’t already in pieces.

Step 4: Toast the Walnuts

1. For an added depth of flavor, lightly toast the walnut halves.
2. Place the walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they become golden and fragrant.
3. Remove from heat and let them cool, then chop the walnuts into smaller pieces.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken, chopped eggs, pineapple chunks, drained corn, and chopped walnuts.
2. Add fresh parsley to the bowl for a burst of color and freshness.
3. Stir the mixture gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.

Step 6: Dress the Salad

1. Add 3-4 tablespoons of mayonnaise to the salad and stir until everything is well-coated. You can adjust the amount of mayonnaise depending on your preference for creaminess.
2. Add salt to taste, keeping in mind that the chicken seasoning may already add some saltiness. Mix again to incorporate all the flavors.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

1. If you have time, refrigerate the salad for 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
2. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, garnished with a few extra walnut pieces or a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Salad “Tropical Island” is timeless because it embodies the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and freshness. The combination of savory chicken, creamy mayonnaise, sweet pineapple, and crunchy walnuts creates a satisfying and mouthwatering experience in every bite. This salad also caters to diverse palates, as it blends sweet and savory elements, making it suitable for nearly every occasion, from a family dinner to a festive holiday feast.

Furthermore, the simplicity of the ingredients makes this dish not only easy to prepare but also affordable. The inclusion of pantry staples like canned pineapple and corn, paired with fresh ingredients like chicken and eggs, makes this salad a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round.

In addition, this recipe is a great way to showcase the versatility of mayonnaise, which brings everything together with its smooth and creamy texture. The unique addition of walnuts adds an unexpected twist, giving a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the chicken and eggs.

This salad has become a timeless classic in many households because it’s both comforting and exotic—offering an escape to a tropical paradise with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a nutritious lunch, this recipe fits perfectly into any meal plan.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Protein: 20 g
• Fat: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 9 g
• Sodium: 600 mg

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?
A: Yes, you can substitute cooked chicken with freshly cooked chicken. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and let it cool before adding it to the salad.

Q: Can I make this salad in advance?
A: Yes, this salad keeps well in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. However, it’s best to add the mayonnaise just before serving to keep the salad fresh.

Q: Can I replace the walnuts with another type of nut?
A: Absolutely! You can replace walnuts with pecans, almonds, or cashews, depending on your preference.

Tips for Perfect Results

1. Use fresh, quality ingredients: The taste of this salad relies heavily on the quality of its ingredients, so opt for fresh chicken, high-quality mayonnaise, and ripe, sweet pineapples.
2. Toast the walnuts: Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor, making them even more aromatic and delicious.
3. Don’t over-mix the salad: When combining the ingredients, be gentle to avoid breaking up the pineapples and eggs too much.
4. Adjust the mayo to your preference: If you prefer a lighter salad, you can reduce the amount of mayonnaise or replace it with Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as it may alter the texture, especially the mayonnaise and pineapple.

Conclusion

Salad “Tropical Island” is more than just a dish; it’s an experience. The sweet pineapples, tender chicken, crunchy walnuts, and creamy mayo all combine to create a salad that transports you to a tropical getaway with each bite. Its simplicity, vibrant colors, and balance of flavors make it a dish that’s perfect for almost any occasion, from casual meals to festive celebrations.

What makes this salad truly timeless is its adaptability and universal appeal. It’s a crowd-pleaser, a comfort food with a twist, and a dish that never fails to leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a potluck, or a special holiday feast, Salad “Tropical Island” is sure to be a hit every time.

Embrace the flavors of the tropics, and let this salad become a regular feature on your dining table. The combination of savory, sweet, and crunchy will make every meal feel like a mini celebration of summer, no matter the season. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this timeless tropical treat that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!