Papa's Salad from Jason's Deli features fresh mixed greens, ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, shredded cheddar cheese, and tender grilled chicken, tossed in a zesty ranch dressing, offering a colorful and satisfying blend of savory flavors and crisp textures.
Equipments
- Salad mixing bowl
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Salad tongs
- Cheese grater
- Grill or grill pan
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Serving plate or bowl
Ingredients
- 6 cups mixed greens
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 1 large cucumber
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
Fresh mixed greens and ripe tomatoes should be washed thoroughly to ensure cleanliness and enhance the salad's crisp texture. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even grilling, and marinate with olive oil, salt, and black pepper to boost flavor. Shred the cheddar cheese yourself with a cheese grater for better texture and freshness. Measure the ranch dressing carefully to achieve the right balance without overpowering the salad. Your Papa's Salad from Jason's Deli copycat menu will capture the vibrant, savory flavors and textures of the original dish.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan.
- Brush chicken breasts with olive oil; season with salt and pepper.
- Grill chicken until fully cooked; let rest, then slice thinly.
- Wash and dry mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumber.
- Dice tomatoes and slice cucumber.
- Shred cheddar cheese using cheese grater.
- In salad mixing bowl, combine mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumber, and cheddar cheese.
- Add sliced grilled chicken to bowl.
- Drizzle ranch dressing over salad ingredients.
- Toss salad gently with salad tongs to mix well.
- Transfer salad to serving plate or bowl.
Substitution
Papa's Salad from Jason's Deli copycat menu combines fresh mixed greens, ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, shredded cheddar cheese, and grilled chicken, dressed with zesty ranch. If fresh tomatoes are out of season, cherry tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes can be used without compromising flavor. To make this salad vegetarian, replace grilled chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas for protein. When ranch dressing is unavailable, a mix of mayonnaise, buttermilk, and herbs creates a similar creamy texture. You can grill chicken in a grill pan or bake it if access to a grill is limited.
Tips
Ensure the chicken breasts reach an internal temperature of 165degF to guarantee they are fully cooked and safe to eat. Thoroughly washing and drying the mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers prevents excess water from diluting the salad's flavor and dressing. Use a sharp chef's knife when slicing vegetables to maintain their crisp texture and avoid bruising. When tossing the salad with ranch dressing, do it gently to evenly coat the ingredients without crushing the greens, preserving your salad's vibrant look and taste.
Nutritions
Papa's Salad from Jason's Deli provides a balanced mix of macronutrients with protein from grilled chicken and cheddar cheese, healthy fats from olive oil and ranch dressing, and fiber from fresh mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumber. One serving typically delivers about 350-450 calories, rich in vitamins A and C, calcium, and iron, supporting immune health and bone strength. Your body benefits from the combination of lean protein and fresh vegetables, making this salad a satisfying and nutrient-dense option. Low in carbohydrates and high in protein, it suits those monitoring their carb intake while maintaining energy levels.
Storage
Store your Papa's Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the mixed greens crisp and the grilled chicken fresh. Keep the ranch dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. Use within 1-2 days for optimal flavor and texture.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, swap the grilled chicken with seared shrimp or crispy tofu to cater to different dietary preferences. You can replace cheddar cheese with feta or goat cheese for a tangier flavor profile. Try mixing Greek yogurt with the ranch dressing for a lighter, creamier texture. Use lemon juice and fresh herbs like dill or parsley to enhance freshness without overpowering the existing savory flavors.
Allergies
Papa's Salad from Jason's Deli contains common allergens such as dairy from shredded cheddar cheese and ranch dressing, which may pose a risk for those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. The salad also includes chicken, which some individuals could be allergic to, and the ranch dressing may contain eggs or other additives triggering allergies. Your sensitivity to any of these ingredients should be carefully considered before consumption.
Why this recipe?
Papa's Salad from Jason's Deli restaurant is celebrated for its fresh, high-quality ingredients, including crisp greens, ripe tomatoes, and savory cheeses, providing a balanced and flavorful meal. The salad is packed with nutrient-rich components and offers a satisfying texture combination that appeals to health-conscious diners. Creating a copycat version allows you to customize the salad to your taste preferences while enjoying a wholesome, restaurant-inspired dish at home. This makes Papa's Salad a popular choice for those seeking both taste and nutrition.