Summer Recipe

Season: Summer
Focus: Cooling, hydrating, protein-rich meal for hot weather
Key Ingredients: Silkie chicken, cucumber, sesame oil, fresh herbs

“In the heat of summer, food should refresh the body and quiet the fire within.”

Why This Recipe Works

This light, chilled dish is a perfect way to enjoy Silkie chicken in the warmer months. After slow-cooking your Silkie bird, the meat can be shredded and repurposed into a crisp, flavorful salad that offers hydration, cooling energy, and plenty of nourishment—without weighing you down.

The cucumbers bring water content and digestive ease, while sesame oil and fresh herbs (like mint or Thai basil) add aromatic depth and a touch of richness. The result is refreshing, grounding, and ideal for hot days when your body craves light but complete sustenance.

Ingredients

• 1 to 2 cups cooked Silkie chicken (shredded or thinly sliced)

• 1 cucumber, julienned or thinly sliced

• 2 tbsp sesame oil

• 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar

• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for balance)

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger

• Sea salt to taste

• Optional: 1–2 tsp soy sauce or tamari (for a savory layer)

• Optional: 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds

• Handful of fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, Thai basil)

Instructions

1. Prepare Dressing:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, vinegar, garlic, ginger, honey, and optional soy sauce until well combined.

2. Assemble Salad:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded Silkie chicken, cucumber, and fresh herbs.

   • Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss to coat.

3. Chill & Serve:

   • Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 15–30 minutes.

   • Garnish with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over cold glass noodles or leafy greens

• Pair with iced herbal teas like chrysanthemum or lemongrass

• Add avocado slices or soft-boiled eggs for extra nourishment

Notes:

• Leftover Tip: This is a great use for leftover Silkie meat from broth-making

• Flavor Variation: Try adding chili oil or lime juice for a Southeast Asian twist

• Prep Tip: Persian or Japanese cucumbers work best for crunch and minimal seeds

This salad is a simple, satisfying way to keep cool while still eating nutrient-rich, whole foods—Silkie style. Up next: Light Herbal Broth for Seasonal Cleansing.