If you are looking for a show-stopping dish that dazzles both the eye and the palate, then the Royal Salad with Pineapple Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This layered salad brings together tender chicken, luscious sautéed mushrooms, sweet pineapple, and creamy cheese, all crowned with a golden corn topping that whispers celebration with every bite. It’s a classic Russian-style salad reimagined for festive tables, guaranteed to spark joy and conversation at any gathering. The combination of textures and flavors strikes a perfect balance between savory and sweet, making it a memorable dish you’ll want to prepare again and again.

Royal Salad with Pineapple Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this salad is in its simplicity and the quality of the ingredients, each carefully chosen to build layers of taste, texture, and color. From juicy pineapple to rich cheese, every component plays an essential role in creating the magic of the Royal Salad with Pineapple Recipe.

Chicken breast fillet: Provides tender, lean protein that forms the hearty foundation of the salad.
Champignon mushrooms (300 g): Finely chopped and sautéed to add an earthy, umami richness.
Canned corn (1 can, drained): Offers a bright golden color and subtle sweetness for the salad’s crowning glory.
Hard cheese (200 g, Gouda or Emmental): Grated cheese adds creamy, melty texture and a mild tanginess.
Medium onion (1, finely diced): Infuses the mushroom layer with gentle savoriness and crunch.
Garlic cloves (2, minced): Boosts flavor complexity with aromatic warmth.
Canned pineapple (1 can, chunks or crushed, well drained): Brings crisp, juicy sweetness that brightens each bite.
Mayonnaise (to taste): The creamy glue that holds layers together and adds richness without overpowering.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential seasoning to enhance all ingredients.
Oil or butter (for sautéing): Adds flavor and helps soften vegetables and mushrooms perfectly.
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): A pop of fresh green and herbal brightness at the end.

How to Make Royal Salad with Pineapple Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by boiling the chicken breast in lightly salted water until fully cooked, which usually takes about 15 minutes. This step ensures your chicken is juicy and tender, perfect for shredding. Allow it to cool completely before shredding or finely chopping — this will help the chicken layer hold together beautifully and keep the salad neat and tidy.

Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms

Meanwhile, heat a skillet with a bit of oil or butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped champignon mushrooms and cook until their moisture evaporates, which concentrates their flavor and prevents sogginess in the salad. Next, fold in the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and lightly golden. Season with salt and pepper at this stage to build layers of seasoning. Then set this savory mixture aside to cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad (Layered)

For a stunning presentation, use a round mold or ring on your serving plate. Start layering carefully, beginning with the shredded chicken followed by a thin layer of mayonnaise to keep it moist. Next, add the cooled sautéed mushrooms and onions, again adding a light spread of mayonnaise to bind it all. The sweet layer of well-drained pineapple comes next, topped with another delicate coating of mayonnaise. Then scatter the grated hard cheese on top, finishing with a gentle layer of mayonnaise to unify the flavors and textures. Press each layer lightly but firmly to maintain clean, even lines and a regal appearance.

Step 4: Finish & Garnish

Complete your masterpiece by covering the top evenly with the canned corn, creating a golden, festive crown. Carefully remove the mold to reveal your beautifully layered salad. For an extra touch of freshness and color, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley around the base, making the presentation even more inviting and elegant.

How to Serve Royal Salad with Pineapple Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a fantastic garnish that brings a fresh herbal note and vibrant green color to the dish. If you want to go further, a few sprigs of dill or a sprinkle of finely chopped green onions could also elevate the salad visually and flavor-wise.

Side Dishes

Although this salad stands proudly on its own, it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or light, crisp crackers to provide a satisfying crunch. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside roast potatoes or a warm vegetable medley, as these complement the salad’s savory-sweet flavor profile beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests even more, try assembling individual portions in small glass jars or elegant bowls, so everyone gets to enjoy the layered effect. Alternatively, present the salad as a beautiful centerpiece on a festive buffet table, letting everyone admire the colorful, golden layers before digging in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying part of your Royal Salad with Pineapple Recipe, simply cover the leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to two days to keep the fresh layers intact. The flavors meld even better after resting a bit, so leftovers can taste even more delicious.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and chilled, so freezing is not recommended. The mayonnaise and pineapple layers don’t hold up well to freezing, and thawing could lead to watery texture and separation.

Reheating

Since this is a cold, layered salad, reheating is unnecessary. It’s designed to be served chilled, which helps the layers maintain their distinct textures and flavors, ensuring every bite feels fresh and festive.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in the Royal Salad with Pineapple Recipe?

Absolutely! Gouda and Emmental are traditional choices for their melting and mild characteristics, but feel free to experiment with cheddar, mozzarella, or even a sharp Parmesan to give the salad a unique twist.

Is there a vegetarian version of this Royal Salad with Pineapple Recipe?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and double up on the mushrooms and cheese for extra protein and flavor. You could also add boiled eggs or canned beans for additional texture and richness.

How early can I prepare the salad before serving?

You can assemble the salad up to a few hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. It’s best to chill for at least 30 to 60 minutes before serving to let the flavors marry and the layers set perfectly.

Can I replace mayonnaise with a lighter dressing?

Mayonnaise is key to binding the layers, but for a lighter option, try a mix of Greek yogurt and a touch of mayonnaise or sour cream. This keeps creaminess while reducing the calorie content.

What is the best way to slice the salad for serving?

Use a sharp, clean knife and wipe it between slices to maintain those crisp, beautiful layers. Serving chilled makes slicing easier and helps the salad hold its shape perfectly.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Royal Salad with Pineapple Recipe that makes it a memorable highlight for any celebration. Its beautiful layers, harmonious flavors, and festive look make it a dish you will be excited to share with friends and family. Give this recipe a try the next time you want to add a royal touch to your table—you might just find it becomes a beloved tradition in your home.

Royal Salad with Pineapple Recipe