Labor Day weekend is all about relaxation, good company, and delicious food. But this year, let's ditch the heavy, greasy fare and opt for something lighter and healthier without sacrificing flavor! This recipe for Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken and Quinoa Salad is the perfect solution – it’s quick, easy, healthy, and absolutely delicious. It’s a fantastic centerpiece for your Labor Day gathering, guaranteed to impress your friends and family. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, quick dinner ideas, and healthy meals without compromising on taste.
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
This recipe is a simple way to elevate a classic dish. The grilling process imparts a beautiful smoky char while the lemon herb marinade adds a burst of fresh flavor. It's a great example of homemade cooking at its finest.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Make sure each chicken breast is fully covered with the marinade.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors fully.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Quinoa Salad
This vibrant quinoa salad is packed with fresh vegetables and a delightful lemon vinaigrette. It’s a perfect complement to the grilled chicken and offers a healthy and satisfying side dish. This simple salad offers a delicious and healthy alternative for your quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Lemon Vinaigrette:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Cook the quinoa according to package directions. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, water, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
- Add feta cheese (if using) and gently toss again.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the grilled lemon herb chicken over the quinoa salad for a complete and satisfying meal. This dish is perfect for a Labor Day barbecue, picnic, or a light and healthy dinner. For extra flavor, consider adding grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or corn on the cob to your grilling lineup.
Tips and Variations
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade for a touch of heat.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or portobello mushrooms.
- Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken and prepare the salad ingredients in advance to save time on Labor Day.
- Customize your salad: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as avocado, bell peppers, or black beans.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe is a healthy and delicious addition to your Labor Day meal plan. While exact nutritional information will vary based on specific ingredients used, a serving of this dish provides a good source of lean protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a balanced and satisfying meal. We recommend using a nutrition calculator for personalized data based on your specific ingredient choices. This recipe is an excellent example of delicious dishes that are both healthy and easy to prepare. It is among the best recipes for those seeking healthy options without sacrificing flavor.