I adore salads. Fresh. Green. Crisp. Gooooood.

I crave them.

Yet, sometimes it’s just too cold.

I like the cozy goodness of a nice warm meal in my belly.

Thus, a salad with lots of greenery, but with the more than welcome accessory of nourishing warmth can and does soothe my soul – not to mention excite the flutter in my heart I hold so dear as I dream of southern France and Italy; cherish the idea of existing upon the Mediterranean coastal cities. I’m there…can you see me yet?

Mediterranean Fusion Chicken Salad
Serves 2

1 large Japanese sweet potato – oh, these are the BEST!
1/2 red bell pepper, roughly chopped into 1 ” pieces
14 Essential Living Botija Olives
2 large grilled and seasoned chicken breasts, sliced or diced, and sautéed (if desired)
1/4 cup feta cheese (omit to avoid dairy)
2 cups fresh baby spinach
2 Tbs. extra virgin olive oil

Using a spiralizer or “noodling” machine, create long and gorgeous noodles from the sweet potato. Alternatively, the potato can be grated.
Steam for several minutes over boiling water, until soft. Allow to cool only slightly.
Toss all remaining ingredients together, along with some fresh pepper.

Winter warmth and warm-weather dreams all at once!