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Summer Chef's Salad with Grilled Pork, Chicken, and Chimichurri Ranch Dressing

This vibrant summer chef's salad offers a sophisticated twist on a classic high-protein dish, combining smoky grilled meats with a zesty, herbaceous dressing. The base of crisp romaine and refreshing cucumber provides a light crunch, while the addition of creamy avocado and Swiss cheese creates a satisfying depth of flavour. It is the chimichurri ranch, however, that truly elevates this recipe, offering a bright and tangy finish that ties the savoury ingredients together beautifully.

Ideal for a nutritious weekday lunch or an alfresco dinner, this versatile salad is a fantastic way to use up leftover roast chicken or BBQ pork. By preparing the dressing in advance, you can assemble this colourful bowl in mere minutes. Packed with fresh produce and quality proteins, it is a wholesome choice for anyone seeking a balanced meal that does not compromise on taste.

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Ingredients for Summer Chef's Salad with Grilled Pork, Chicken, and Chimichurri Ranch Dressing

  • 90ml buttermilk

  • 90ml Chimichurri Sauce

  • 5 tablespoons mayonnaise

  • 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt

  • 1450ml (packed) baby cos or cos hearts

  • 1 Kirby cucumber, sliced

  • 2 large hard-boiled eggs, sliced

  • 1 ripe Hass avocado, sliced

  • 2 radishes, thinly sliced

  • 150g shredded grilled whole chicken breast (from Spatchcock Grilled Chicken )

  • 200g shredded Brown Sugar BBQ Pork Butt

  • 275ml (150g ) cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 60g cubed Swiss cheese

  • 60g croutons

  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Combine buttermilk, chimichurri sauce, mayonnaise, and salt in a medium bowl.

Toss lettuce and cucumber with dressing in a large serving bowl. Arrange eggs, avocado, radishes, chicken, pork, tomatoes, cheese, and croutons over salad and season with salt and pepper.

Dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance. Cover and chill.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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