Emerald Vintage
Background
The Emerald Vintage is a unique and vibrant dish that draws inspiration from a fusion of classic and modern culinary techniques. Its origin is steeped in history, believed to date back to the early 20th century where chefs from the Mediterranean and Asian regions wanted to create a refreshing, visually appealing dish that symbolized prosperity and health, giving it the name "Emerald Vintage" due to its green, gem-like appearance.
Ingredients
Preparation
Before embarking on creating the Emerald Vintage, it’s essential to gather all the ingredients and have your kitchen tools ready. Here is a step-by-step guide to prepare the components for this exquisite dish.
Step 1: Preparing the Quinoa
Start by rinsing the quinoa thoroughly under cold water. This is essential to remove the natural coating called saponin which can make it taste bitter if not properly cleaned.
Step 2: Marinating the Chicken Breast
Place the chicken breast in a bowl, and add minced garlic, lime juice, a splash of olive oil, a sprinkle of sea salt, and a dash of black pepper. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to infuse the flavors.
Step 3: Chopping the Greens
While the chicken is marinating, finely chop the spinach, dice the avocado, and slice the cucumber. Set these aside to incorporate later into the dish.
Cooking Process
Step 1: Cooking the Quinoa
Pour 2 cups of water into a saucepan and bring it to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce the heat, and let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes or until the quinoa grains are translucent. Once done, fluff it with a fork and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Grilling the Chicken Breast
Heat up a non-stick grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken breast on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 3: Assembling the Dish
In a large bowl, combine the cooked and slightly cooled quinoa with the chopped spinach, avocado, and cucumber. Drizzle with olive oil, and squeeze fresh lime juice over the top. Toss gently until everything is well mixed. Finally, add the grilled chicken slices and top with toasted pine nuts and freshly chopped cilantro.
How to Enjoy the Emerald Vintage
The Emerald Vintage is best enjoyed fresh. Its refreshing and zesty profile makes it perfect for a light lunch or a sophisticated dinner. Pair it with a chilled glass of white wine to enhance the vibrant flavors. Don't forget to set your cooking timer to ensure each component is cooked to perfection.