Paleo Lunch: Asian Cucumber Bites

Appetizers, Asian, Chicken, Leftovers, Low-carb, Paleo

Eating Paleo can be very delicious and satisfying. However, planning meals and adhering to the “no dairy, no bread” diet can be a challenge. Personally I can follow Paleo for almost every meal, but I occasionally add a non-Paleo element to satisfy the masses. IMG_2055

The peanuts in this simple Asian Cucumber recipe aren’t Paleo, but my husband loves their flavor and crunch. So feel free to replace them with almonds or just omit them when you make this nice light lunch or pretty appetizer. These little guilt-free “bites” are perfect to pop into your watering mouth.

Using leftover or rotisserie chicken makes this recipe a snap. The key is to let the cooked chicken marinate in the ginger dressing for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors. Slice the cucumber and radishes thinly, and you can assemble this an hour ahead of time. This recipe serves one for lunch, but you can double or triple it if you are using it for an appetizer.

Ingredients

4 ounces shredded cooked chicken

8 cucumber slices, 1/8” to 1/4” thick

8 radish slices, 1/8” to 1/4” thick

2 tablespoons ginger dressing (I use Makoto)

2 tablespoons peanuts or almonds, chopped

Process

Marinate the shredded chicken with the ginger dressing for 30 minutes. Place one radish slice on top of one cucumber slice, then top with the shredded chicken and chopped peanuts. Enjoy!

Scrumptious Tomato and Cucumber Salad

10 minute side dish, Paleo, Salad, Tomatoes

Today I’m sharing a tomato and cucumber side dish. The key to this is the delIMG_0511icious olive oil and vinegar mixture. You can let this sit for hours before serving because the tomatoes and cucumber marinate in each other’s flavors. As embarrassing as it is, I’ve actually licked the bottom of the bowl after serving this side.

The tomato cucumber salad works nicely with grilled salmon or lamb. I’ve also served it with flatbread and homemade hummus for a vegetarian meal. Tomatoes are very versatile so try this dish or the Caprese salad I shared yesterday with your favorite protein.

 

Ingredients

3 beefsteak or vine ripe tomatoes, quartered

1 cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced

1/4 cup green onions, chopped

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar      IMG_0488

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon oregano

2 tablespoons virgin olive oil

Assembly

In a small bowl, combine vinegar, salt, pepper and oregano. Slowly whisk in the olive oil. In a larger bowl, combine the tomatoes, sliced cucumber and chopped green onions. Pour vinegar/oil mixture over the top and let sit for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve when ready.

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