Mock Chicken Salad

vegan, gluten-free, grain-free, nut-free

Adapted from a recipe on PlantPureNation

I know, I know - I already had a chickpea salad recipe, but when summer rolls around, I need as many options as possible for cold meals. This recipe uses textured vegetable protein (TVP) or soy curls instead of whole beans and the result is a flaky, chewy texture that's even more similar to traditional chicken salad. If you've ever had the amazing mock chicken salad in the deli section at Whole Foods, this one gets close to that! This salad can be served on a bed of lettuce, on a sandwich, or with crackers, and it packs well for a potluck or picnic.

Serves: 3 / Active time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 4 ounces textured vegetable protein (TVP) or Soy Curls (about half a package)*
• 3/4-1 cup vegan mayonnaise**
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 2 celery stalks, small diced
• 1 carrot, small diced
• 3 green onions, sliced
• ¼ cup chopped dill pickles (or dill pickle relish)
• 1 cup grapes, chopped
• 2 tablespoon fresh chopped dill or 1 teaspoon dried dill
• 2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Serving:

• crusty bread, crackers, leafy greens, and/or extra grapes

Directions:

1. Re-constitute the soy curls/TVP by placing them in a bowl and pouring 2 cups of hot water (or veggie broth) over them. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. When they are soft and hydrated, drain and squeeze out the excess water. 
2. Pulse the soy curls in a food processor until a finer texture is achieved (no need for this step if using TVP since it's already in small pieces)
3. Place the processed soy curls/TVP into a medium size mixing bowl and begin adding the remaining ingredients. Mix together until ingredients are well combined. Serve immediately with crackers, in a sandwich, or on a bed of greens, or chill for later. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. 

*TVP and soy curls, which are defatted soy flour products, can sometimes be found unrefrigerated  in the baking aisle at your grocery. Bob's Red Mill is a popular brand. Soy curls are harder to find locally and may need to be ordered online.
**There are many egg-less vegan mayonaises to choose from these days (Vegenaise, Just Mayo, Earth Balance, even Hellman's makes a vegan version now) including soy-free versions if you're looking for a soy-free option.