Ingredients

  • 1 lb romaine lettuce hearts, chopped (about 2)
  • 4 grilled boneless skinless chicken breast halves, chopped
  • 8 ounces crumbled feta cheese, divided
  • 2 ounces toasted pumpkin seeds, divided (pepitas)
  • 8 ounces cherry tomatoes or 8 ounces other small tomatoes
  • 1 cup julienned red onion
  • 1 avocado, peeled, seeded and diced
  • Avocado Dressing
  • 1/3 cup lime juice
  • 2 teaspoons champagne vinegar
  • 3/4 teaspoon chopped garlic
  • 1/3 bunch cilantro, chopped (about 15 sprigs)
  • 1/3 bunch green onion, green tops only, chopped (4 to 6)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper
  • 1/3 avocado, diced
  • 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup canola oil

Method

  • In a large bowl, combine the romaine, chicken, one-half each of the feta and pumpkin seeds, the tomatoes, onions and avocado. Add 1/3 cup of the dressing and toss gently to combine. Taste salad, adding additional dressing as desired and seasoning to taste. Divide salad among 4 plates, topping each with remaining cheese and pumpkin seeds. Serve immediately.
  • Avocado Dressing: In the bowl of a blender, combine the lime juice, vinegar, garlic, cilantro, green onion, salt, cayenne pepper and avocado and blend.
  • With the blender running, slowly add the oils to form a thick, creamy dressing. Taste and adjust the flavorings and seasoning if desired. This makes a scant 2 cups avocado dressing, which will keep, covered and refrigerated, up to three days.