Everyday Mom's Meals: Too Hot To Cook { A Post For Earth Fare}
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Friday, June 19, 2015

Too Hot To Cook { A Post For Earth Fare}

So lately I've become a little obsessed with eating things I can serve in lettuce. Call them boats, call them cups, call them wraps...however you describe them, I've been on a total kick lately.

It's the weather, I know it is. Sure, I love the healthier aspect of it, like swapping out shells for Romain leaves in my Taco Boats, but deep down I know the soaring temps are what is leading me back to this idea again and again. Light, flavorful meals we can eat later in the evening and not feel like we are going to bed with a brick in our stomachs.

Take that idea and combine it with another warm weather classic, chicken salad, and you have a party on a plate! For this one I wanted more of a mustard flavor than mayo to give it extra tang. The added grapes are like a little burst of freshness in every bite.

I served these with some crusty bread and fresh fruit on the side for a simple supper; but they would be perfect for a poolside or lake party too. Simply put out a big bowl of the chicken salad, and a platter with the lettuce leaves separated, so your guests can fill their own!

Summer time means lighter meals for us. Salads, fresh fruit, veggies, sandwiches...and apparently anything and everything I can find to stick inside a lettuce leaf!

Dijon Chicken Salad Cups
2 lbs. boneless chicken tenders
3 ribs celery, diced
1 c. seedless red grapes, halved
1/4 c. mayo
1/4 c. Dijon mustard
1 TBS lemon juice
1 TBS dried parsley
1/3 c. sliced almonds, reserve a few for garnish
1 head bibb lettuce
Garlic Powder, to taste
Salt and Pepper to taste 
Olive Oil

Preheat oven to 375. Drizzle chicken liberally with olive oil, and season with garlic powder, salt and pepper. Roast for 30-40 minutes until cooked. Allow to cool for a few minutes and then shred. Allow to finish cooling. In a small bowl combine mayo, mustard, lemon juice, parsley, salt and pepper. Mix to combine. In a large bowl combine cooled, shredded chicken, grapes, celery and almonds. Toss to combine. Add dressing. Stir well. Chill for at least an hour. When ready, fill leaves of lettuce with chicken salad. Sprinkle with extra almonds. *NOTE* In my store, the bibb lettuce is also marked "living lettuce" and has the roots still attached. Any lettuce will work, I just like the shapes of these leaves the best.



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