Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe in 2024

Introduction of Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe in 2024

Straub’s chicken salad has been a beloved dish for many years, particularly known for its creamy texture, perfectly cooked chicken, and a delightful blend of flavors. Originating from Straub’s Fine Grocers in St. Louis, this salad is a staple for those who appreciate high-quality, homemade food. It’s not just a salad; it’s a culinary experience that brings comfort and satisfaction. This recipe is simple yet packed with flavor, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy a healthy and hearty meal.

The beauty of Straub’s chicken salad lies in its simplicity. With a few key ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can create a dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. Whether you’re planning a light lunch, a picnic, or a potluck, this chicken salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to make this iconic dish, along with some variations to suit different dietary needs.

Ingredients for Straub’s Chicken Salad

To make Straub’s chicken salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced: Chicken breast is a lean protein source that’s low in fat and high in essential nutrients.
• 1 cup mayonnaise: Mayonnaise adds creaminess to the salad. You can use regular, light, or even vegan mayo, depending on your preference.
• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped: Celery adds a crunchy texture and a refreshing flavor, along with fiber and vitamins.
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped: Red onion provides a mild, sweet taste with a bit of a bite, along with antioxidants.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard gives the salad a tangy flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Salt brings out the flavors of the ingredients.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Black pepper adds a bit of heat and complexity to the salad.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Parsley adds a fresh, herby flavor and a pop of color.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Cook the Chicken

Start by cooking the chicken breast. You can poach, grill, or bake the chicken until it’s fully cooked. If you prefer, you can use leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken. Once cooked, let the chicken cool before dicing it into bite-sized pieces.

2. Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken is cooling, finely chop the celery and red onion. The celery should be diced small enough to add crunch without overpowering the salad. The red onion should be minced to ensure a subtle, yet present, flavor.

3. Mix the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Stir the ingredients together until they are well mixed. This creamy dressing will bind all the ingredients together.

4. Combine Ingredients

Add the diced chicken, chopped celery, and red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold the ingredients together until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.

5. Add Fresh Herbs

Finally, add the chopped parsley to the salad. The parsley adds a burst of freshness and a nice color contrast. Gently mix it in, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the salad.

6. Chill Before Serving

For the best flavor, cover the chicken salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, making the salad even more delicious.

Variations and Customizations

Straub’s chicken salad is already a fantastic dish, but it can be easily customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some variations you might consider:

1. Low-Fat Version

If you’re looking to reduce the calorie and fat content, consider using a low-fat or fat-free mayonnaise. Greek yogurt can also be a great substitute for mayo, adding creaminess and a slight tang while boosting the protein content.

2. Vegan Option

For a vegan version, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu. Use vegan mayonnaise to maintain the creaminess of the salad. Adding extra vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, or avocado can enhance the texture and flavor.

3. Spicy Kick

If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the salad. You can also use spicy mustard instead of Dijon for an extra kick.

4. Fruity Twist

Adding fruit like grapes, apples, or dried cranberries can introduce a sweet contrast to the savory ingredients. These fruits also add extra vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber to the dish.

5. Nuts and Seeds

For added crunch and nutritional benefits, consider adding chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans. Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can also add a pleasant texture and boost the salad’s nutrient profile.

Nutrient Table for Straub’s Chicken Salad

Understanding the nutritional content of your meals is crucial, especially if you’re mindful of your diet. Below is a nutrient table for a standard serving of Straub’s chicken salad (approximately 1 cup or 240 grams):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	310	16%
Total Fat	25g	32%
Saturated Fat	4g	20%
Trans Fat	0g	–
Cholesterol	70mg	23%
Sodium	500mg	22%
Total Carbohydrate	4g	1%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Sugars	2g	–
Protein	18g	36%
Vitamin A	2%	–
Vitamin C	10%	–
Calcium	4%	–
Iron	6%	–

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Health Benefits of Straub’s Chicken Salad

Straub’s chicken salad is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients that can contribute to a balanced diet. Here are some of the health benefits associated with the key ingredients:

1. High in Protein

Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall energy levels. A serving of Straub’s chicken salad provides about 18 grams of protein, making it a satisfying option for those looking to increase their protein intake.

2. Rich in Healthy Fats

While mayonnaise is often viewed as an unhealthy ingredient, it contains healthy fats that are crucial for brain function and hormone production. If you opt for a mayo made with olive oil or avocado oil, you’ll increase the content of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.

3. Low in Carbohydrates

Straub’s chicken salad is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. With only 4 grams of carbs per serving, it’s a filling meal that won’t spike your blood sugar levels.

4. Contains Essential Vitamins and Minerals

The celery and red onion in the salad contribute essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. These nutrients support immune function, bone health, and overall well-being.

5. Customizable for Various Diets

As mentioned earlier, this chicken salad can be adapted to fit various dietary needs, including low-fat, vegan, and gluten-free diets. This versatility makes it a suitable dish for a wide range of people, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a tasty and nutritious meal.

FAQs

Conclusion

Straub’s chicken salad is more than just a simple dish; it’s a flavorful and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a quick lunch, or as part of your weekly meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Its simplicity, combined with the richness of flavors, makes it a timeless dish that you’ll want to make again and again.

The recipe is also highly customizable, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences and dietary needs. With the provided nutrient table, you can make informed choices about how this dish fits into your overall diet. So, why wait? Give Straub’s chicken salad a try today and enjoy a delicious, homemade meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.