Chicken Or Crab Salad Indienne
A flavorful chicken or crab salad with curry, raisins, nuts, and coconut, perfect for a light, satisfying meal or appetizer for gatherings and casual dining.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rice as directed on the package.
- Several hours before serving, combine cooked rice with cooked chicken or crab meat, celery, green pepper, bacon, and raisins.
- Make the dressing by mixing curry powder, mayonnaise, and sour cream.
- Blend three-quarters of the dressing into the salad mixture.
- Chill the salad until ready to serve.
- Serve on crisp greens and top with the remaining dressing.
- Optional: Garnish with coconut, nuts, and chutney if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try substituting the crab meat with shredded rotisserie chicken for a different flavor profile. If you're looking to reduce calories, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream in the dressing. Toasting the nuts can enhance their flavor and add a delightful crunch to the salad. Be sure to let the salad chill for several hours to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chicken Or Crab Salad Indienne on a bed of crisp greens for a refreshing meal. It pairs beautifully with Aussie Cheese Fries for a satisfying side dish. Consider adding a slice of crusty bread or a light fruit salad to round out the meal. A chilled white wine or sparkling water can complement the flavors nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the salad's freshness, avoid mixing the dressing with the salad until you are ready to serve. If reheating rice, sprinkle a little water over it and microwave briefly to avoid drying it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Or Crab Salad Indienne contains roughly 20 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just mix the ingredients and dressing separately, then combine and chill before serving. This allows the flavors to develop and intensify, making it even tastier when served.
What can I substitute for crab meat if I have allergies?
If you have a shellfish allergy, you can replace crab meat with cooked chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. The dressing and other ingredients will still provide a delicious flavor, making it a versatile recipe.
How can I make this salad spicier?
To add some heat to the Chicken Or Crab Salad Indienne, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. Adjust according to your spice preference to create a salad that suits your taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).