Chick Fil A Kale Salad Recipe for a Fresh and Healthy Copycat Side
This vibrant salad is a delightful composition of hearty kale, crunchy toasted almonds, and dried cranberries, tossed in a tangy maple vinaigrette. Its balance of sweet and savory notes makes it a satisfying and nutritious choice for a light meal or a flavorful side dish.
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl: For massaging the kale and combining the salad ingredients.
- Small Mixing Bowl: For preparing the maple vinaigrette dressing.
- Whisk: To ensure the dressing is well emulsified and smooth.
- Skillet: For toasting the almonds to a golden brown.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Cutting Board: A stable surface for chopping kale and other ingredients.
- Knife: For efficiently chopping the kale.
Ingredients
- 6 cups chopped kale, stems removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Kale: Remove the tough stems from the kale and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Place the chopped kale in a large bowl.
- Step 2: Massage the Kale: Drizzle the olive oil and sprinkle the salt over the kale. Using clean hands, massage the kale for 2-3 minutes, until it becomes slightly tender and darker green. This process helps break down the kale's tough fibers, making it more palatable.
- Step 3: Toast the Almonds: Place the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant. Watch carefully to prevent burning. Alternatively, almonds can be toasted in a 350F oven for 5-7 minutes.
- Step 4: Make the Maple Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard until well combined. Ensure the mixture is smooth and emulsified.
- Step 5: Assemble the Salad: Pour the maple vinaigrette over the massaged kale and toss well to coat. Add the dried cranberries and toasted almonds. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
- Step 6: Serve Immediately or Chill: Serve the salad immediately for optimal freshness and crunch. Alternatively, the salad can be chilled for later consumption, allowing the flavors to meld together. Note that the kale may soften slightly as it sits. For a tangier dressing, increase the amount of apple cider vinegar. For a sweeter salad, add a touch more maple syrup. Other nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, can be substituted for the almonds. For a vegetarian version, ensure the Dijon mustard does not contain any animal products.
Notes
Variations
The “chick fil a kale salad recipe” is highly adaptable, allowing for numerous variations to suit individual preferences and dietary needs.
- Ingredient Swaps: Other nuts, such as pecans, walnuts, or pistachios, can replace the almonds. Blueberries, golden raisins, or chopped apples can substitute the dried cranberries. Feta or goat cheese can add a creamy, tangy dimension.
- Regional Twists: Incorporating regional ingredients can offer unique flavor profiles. Consider adding pepitas and lime juice for a Southwestern twist, or using local honey instead of maple syrup.
- Dietary Adjustments: To make the salad vegan, ensure the Dijon mustard is vegan-friendly or replace it with a suitable substitute. For a lower-sugar option, use sugar-free maple syrup or reduce the amount of sweetener in the dressing. Adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu can transform it into a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
This kale salad is exceptionally versatile and can be served in various ways. It is well-suited as a light lunch, a vibrant side dish for grilled proteins, or a nutritious accompaniment to sandwiches and wraps. The salad also makes an excellent addition to potlucks, picnics, and other gatherings. Its bright flavors and appealing textures make it a crowd-pleaser.
Consider adding grilled chicken for lunch or grilled salmon for a light, healthy dinner. It can be paired with a lemon vinaigrette for enhanced flavor.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is crucial to maintain the salad’s freshness and texture. The kale, cranberries, and almonds can be stored separately in airtight containers at room temperature. The dressing should be stored in the refrigerator. When assembling the salad, it is best to dress only the portion that will be consumed immediately to prevent the kale from becoming soggy.
Undressed kale will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dressing can be refrigerated for up to 1 week. Once the salad is dressed, it is best consumed within a few hours. The salad might become soft.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can the kale be prepared in advance?
The kale can be massaged up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This saves time during final assembly. - Question 2: How can I prevent the almonds from becoming soft?
Ensure the almonds are completely cool before adding them to the salad. Storing them separately until serving helps maintain their crunch. - Question 3: Can other types of vinegar be used in the dressing?
Yes, white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar can be substituted for apple cider vinegar, but the flavor profile will be slightly different. - Question 4: Is it possible to use frozen kale?
While frozen kale can be used, it is not recommended as it tends to be waterlogged and lacks the texture of fresh kale. Fresh kale is a must in the recipe to succeed. - Question 5: What if I don’t have Maple Syrup?
Brown sugar is the best subtitute for Maple syrup in this recipe. You can also mix honey with molasses.