The tasty greens and protein in this Napa Cabbage Chicken Salad are always a hit at our house!

This easy dinner recipe is a family (and guest!) favorite – we never get tired of throwing this easy, fresh dish together for a light dinner.

Even though it's a salad, you might be surprised at just how filling it is just served by itself for a meal. The chicken and cabbage combination delivers lots of tasty nutrients, which help keep you full longer than most salads, yet it doesn't feel heavy on your stomach.

Even the kids like it, and ask for this crunchy entrée often!

Ingredients

Salad:

3 grilled chicken breasts, sliced

1 Head Napa Cabbage, sliced thin

1 bunch green onions, diced

Handful chopped cilantro

Crunchies for topping:

2 Tbsp butter

1 package ramen noodles, crushed

2 Tbsp sesame seeds

1/2 cup sliced or slivered almonds

Dressing:

1/4 cup cider vinegar

3/4 cup canola oil

1/4 cup maple syrup

2 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce

Instructions

Combine the shredded cabbage, green onions, and cilantro in a large bowl, cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Heat a medium nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Melt the butter, adding the ramen, sesame seeds, and almonds to the pan. Toast the mixture for about 3-4 minutes, or until browned nicely. Make sure not to burn them.

To make the dressing, set a small saucepan on high heat, and add in all the ingredients together. Stir frequently, until the mixture comes to a quick boil, then immediately remove the pan from the heat. Let the dressing cool to room temp.

Toss the salad mixture, crunchies, chicken, and dressing together just before serving for this quick and delicious dinner!

Here is a fun picture tutorial on making falafel. I am always looking for quick and easy bean recipes to add variety to our twice-weekly meatless routine, and this one is perfect!

So for vegetarian night, whip out the legumes, and get some health on your table!

Here are the simple instructions:

how-to make Falafel

Ingredients

•   1-15 oz. can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
•   1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
•   1/4 cup finely crushed baked tortilla chips
•   2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro
•   1/8 teaspoon ground cumin
•   1 large egg white
•   2 tsp olive or canola oil

Avocado Spread

•   1/2 mashed peeled avocado
•   3 tablespoons finely chopped tomato
•   1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
•   1/8 teaspoon salt

Remaining ingredients

•   4 pita pockets
•   4 thin red onion slices, separated into rings
•   Alfalfa or spicy sprouts

Instructions

1. To prepare patties, place pinto beans in a medium bowl; partially mash with a fork.

2. Add cheese and next 5 ingredients; stir until well combined.

3. Shape bean mixture into 4 oval-shaped patties that are about 1/2 inch thick. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, add oil.

4. When oil is ready, add patties to pan; cook 3 minutes on each side or until patties are browned and thoroughly heated.

5. To prepare spread, combine avocado and next 5 ingredients (through salt), stirring well. Place 1 patty in each pita half. Spread about 2 tablespoons avocado spread over patty in each pita half; top with onions and greens.

What do you think? Will you make this healthy recipe in your kitchen?

Tell me about YOUR favorite falafel recipe, and what you think of this tutorial here in the comments or over on our Facebook community today!

Napa Cabbage Chicken Salad Recipe

The tasty greens and protein in this Napa Cabbage Chicken Salad are always a hit at our house!

Here's how to make the Napa Cabbage Chicken Salad for your own family:

Napa Cabbage Chicken Salad Recipe

Ingredients

Instructions

How-to Make Falafel

how-to make Falafel