Want to enjoy chick fil a kale salad recipe at home? Our simple recipe lets you make it with just a few ingredients1.
Table of contents
- Key Takeaways
- Introduction to Chick Fil A Kale Salad Recipe
- Essential Ingredients for the Salad
- Preparing the Chick fil a kale salad recipe
- Making the Dressing from Scratch
- Assembling Your chick fil a kale salad recipe
- Adding Protein to chick fil a kale salad recipe
- Storage Tips for Leftover chick fil a kale salad recipe
- Nutritional Benefits of Kale
- Conclusion and Serving Suggestions
- Source Links
Discover how to make the perfect copycat Chick fil a kale salad recipe at home. Learn the secret ingredients and easy steps to recreate this nutritious and flavorful restaurant favorite.
Is our homemade version as good as the original? Yes, it is! You’ll love the vibrant flavors and textures of our copycat Chick Fil A kale salad1.
Key Takeaways
- Prepare this copycat salad in just 5-10 minutes1
- Suitable for vegan, plant-based, dairy-free, and gluten-free diets1
- Made with nutrient-dense kale and crunchy cabbage1
- Topped with roasted almonds for added texture1
- Dressed in a flavorful Dijon apple cider vinaigrette1
Introduction to Chick Fil A Kale Salad Recipe
The Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad is a hit on their menu. It’s loved for its mix of flavors and textures2. Making it at home lets you pick your ingredients and avoid preservatives, making it a better choice for your health.
Why This Salad is a Favorite
The salad’s fame comes from its apple cider maple vinaigrette. It’s sweet and tangy, matching the curly kale and green cabbage well2. Roasted almonds add a nice crunch, making the salad even better2. It’s great as a side or a main dish, which is why people love it.
Flavor Profile and Ingredients
The Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad uses fresh, quality ingredients for a great taste2. It has curly green kale, which is full of nutrients and holds up well in the salad2. It also has shredded green cabbage, roasted almonds, and a special dressing made with apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and olive oil3.
By making it at home, you can adjust the ingredients to your liking. This makes it a flexible and fulfilling choice for your meals2.
Essential Ingredients for the Salad
Making a tasty kale salad at home begins with picking the right ingredients. You’ll need fresh, crisp kale, veggies, and quality cheese to make it shine. This is the secret to a great copycat Chick-fil-A kale salad.
Fresh Kale Varietals
Curly green kale is the top pick for its strong texture4. But, you can try Lacinato or baby kale for different looks and tastes. Always wash, dry, and chop the kale well before using.
Additional Vegetables to Consider
Adding shredded carrots, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes can make your salad pop4. These veggies add color, nutrients, and tasty flavors to your dish.
Choosing Quality Cheese
The original Chick-fil-A kale salad doesn’t have cheese, but you can add it for extra taste5. Try feta, goat cheese, or parmesan. For vegans, plant-based feta works great. Choose cheeses that taste good with the other ingredients.
With the right ingredients, you can make a kale salad that looks and tastes amazing4.
Preparing the Chick fil a kale salad recipe
Getting the kale ready is key to making a tasty copycat Chick-fil-A kale salad. First, wash the kale leaves well to get rid of dirt or debris4. After that, dry the kale thoroughly. You can use a salad spinner or gently pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial to keep the kale from getting soggy when you add the dressing.
Once the kale is clean and dry, chop it into small pieces. Take out the tough center ribs and chop or tear the leaves into uniform sizes4. For a softer texture, massage the chopped kale with olive oil and lemon juice. This simple step makes the kale more enjoyable to eat.
By properly preparing the kale, you’ll get a salad that looks great and tastes amazing6. Now, the kale is ready, and you can start putting together the rest of the copycat Chick-fil-A kale salad.
Making the Dressing from Scratch
Take your Copycat Chick Fil A Kale Salad to the next level with a homemade kale salad dressing. This homemade vinaigrette is quick and easy to make. It adds a burst of flavor to your salad.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious dressing. It perfectly complements the crisp kale and other fresh veggies.
Ingredients for the Dressing
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar7
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup7
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard7
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Dressing Instructions
To make the dressing, whisk all the ingredients together in a small bowl until well combined8. Or, shake them up in a mason jar for a quick emulsion7. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed8.
This homemade vinaigrette can be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week8.
With this tasty kale salad dressing, you can enjoy your Copycat Chick Fil A Kale Salad anytime. Elevate your salad game with this homemade vinaigrette!
Assembling Your chick fil a kale salad recipe
Making the perfect kale salad is about knowing how to put it together. Begin by placing the kale and cabbage in a big bowl9. Then, pour the homemade dressing over the greens and massage it into the kale. This makes the kale tender and blends the flavors well4.
Layering Ingredients for Best Flavor
To get the best taste, layer your salad ingredients carefully. Add the chopped almonds just before serving to keep them crunchy9. You can also add more almonds or cheese on top for a nice look.
Tips for Presentation
- Use a large, shallow bowl to show off the layers and make it inviting.
- Arrange the salad in a way that looks good, like putting the kale and cabbage in the middle and the toppings around it.
- Drizzle the dressing in a pretty pattern, or serve it on the side for more control.
- Top with some reserved toppings, like cheese or nuts, for a fancy touch.
By following these easy tips, you can make your kale salad stand out. It will show off the bright flavors and textures of this healthy dish94.
Adding Protein to chick fil a kale salad recipe
To make this protein-rich salad a full and tasty nutritious meal, add a protein source. Grilled chicken is a great pick that matches the kale salad’s bright tastes10.
For a veggie option, try chickpeas or crispy air-fried tofu. You can also use grilled salmon, hard-boiled eggs, or edamame10. Quinoa or lentils are good for plant-based diets, adding protein and texture10.
Grilled Chicken Options
Grilled chicken is a top choice that makes this protein-rich salad a full meal. It pairs well with the kale and veggies, offering a mix of flavors and textures10.
Vegetarian Protein Sources
Looking for a meatless option? There are many tasty protein sources for this protein-rich salad. Chickpeas, whether roasted or straight from the can, add crunch and protein10. Crispy air-fried tofu is another great choice, adding savory flavor and texture10.
This protein-rich salad is versatile. Choose grilled chicken, plant-based proteins, or mix them for a nutritious meal that’s filling and flavorful1011.
Storage Tips for Leftover chick fil a kale salad recipe
When storing your homemade Copycat Chick Fil A Kale Salad, keep the greens and toppings separate. This keeps the salad fresh and prevents the kale from getting soggy12.
Keeping Your Kale Crisp
To store leftover salad, put the dressed kale and cabbage in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add the almonds, croutons, or other toppings just before serving12.
For longer storage, keep the kale, cabbage, dressing, and toppings apart. The undressed kale and cabbage can stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge12.
Best Practices for Storing Dressing
Store the salad dressing in a separate airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week13. Always shake the dressing well before using. This is because the ingredients might separate12.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your Copycat Chick Fil A Kale Salad all week. You’ll get to enjoy the fresh, crisp flavors every time12.
Nutritional Benefits of Kale
Kale is a superfood, full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s great for your Chick-fil-A inspired kale salad. Every bite offers many health benefits14.
Richness in Vitamins and Minerals
A single serving of this kale salad has 205 calories, 13g of carbs, 4g of protein, and 17g of healthy fats14. It’s rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals like calcium, potassium, and manganese14. These nutrients boost your immune system, bone health, and heart health.
Low-Calorie Yet Filling Option
This kale salad is low in calories but very filling14. Kale’s high fiber content keeps you full, making it great for weight management14. The mix of crunchy kale, tasty veggies, and dressing makes it a joy to eat.
Adding this Chick-fil-A kale salad to your meals brings many health benefits15. It’s packed with nutrients and is low in calories but filling. It’s a healthy and easy choice for your meals.
Conclusion and Serving Suggestions
This copycat Chick-fil-A kale salad is great on its own or as a side. Making it at home saves money9 and lets you pick the freshest ingredients9. You can also make it your own with your favorite toppings9.
Perfect Pairings and Meal Ideas
The kale salad goes well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or soups. It’s perfect for a light lunch with bread or quinoa. Its healthy and low-calorie nature916 makes it a great side for many meals.
Encouragement to Customize Your chick fil a kale salad recipe
Feel free to add your own twist to the salad. Try cranberries for sweetness or apples for freshness. You can also change up the nuts or seeds for different tastes. This recipe is all about making it your own while keeping the Chick-fil-A flavor.
FAQ
What are the key ingredients in this copycat Chick-fil-A kale salad?
The main ingredients are curly green kale, green cabbage, and roasted salted almonds. You can also add shredded carrots, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for more nutrition and taste.
How do I prepare the kale for the salad?
First, wash the kale leaves well and dry them completely. Then, remove the tough center ribs and chop or tear the leaves into small pieces. Massage the kale with olive oil and lemon juice for 2-3 minutes to soften it.
What is the homemade dressing made of?
The dressing has extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and honey or maple syrup. It also includes Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix all the ingredients together or shake them in a mason jar until they’re well combined.
How do I assemble the salad?
Put the prepared kale and shredded cabbage in a big bowl. Pour the homemade dressing over the greens and massage it into the kale. Add the chopped almonds just before serving to keep them crunchy.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Yes, you can make this salad a full meal by adding protein. Grilled chicken, chickpeas, crispy air-fried tofu, grilled salmon, hard-boiled eggs, or plant-based proteins like quinoa or lentils are all great options.
How do I store leftover kale salad?
To store leftover salad, keep the dressed kale and cabbage separate from the almonds. Store the dressed greens in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add the almonds just before serving to keep them crunchy.
What are the nutritional benefits of kale?
Kale is a superfood packed with vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals like calcium, potassium, and manganese. It’s full of antioxidants and fiber, which support digestive health and overall well-being.
Source Links
- Kale Crunch Salad (chick fil a kale salad recipe) | Sinful Kitchen – https://sinfulkitchen.com/kale-crunch-salad/
- Kale Crunch Salad (Chick-fil-A Copycat) – https://www.livveganstrong.com/kale-crunch-salad-chick-fil-a-copycat/
- Chick-fil-A Copycat Kale Crunch Salad with Dressing – The Hearty Life – https://theheartylife.org/chick-fil-a-copycat-kale-crunch-salad-with-dressing/
- Simple Kale Crunch Salad – (chick fil a kale salad recipe) – https://pinchmegood.com/kale-crunch-salad-copycat-chick-fil-a-recipe/
- Kale Crunch Salad with Salty Almonds {chick fil a kale salad recipe} – https://letsdishrecipes.com/kale-crunch-salad-with-salty-almonds-chick-fil-a-copycat-recipe/
- Kale Crunch Salad – Copycat Chick-fil-A Recipe – Chisel & Fork – https://www.chiselandfork.com/kale-crunch-salad/
- Copycat Chick-Fil-A Superfood Side Salad – https://ourbestbites.com/copycat-chick-fil-superfood-salad/
- Chick-Fil-A Kale Salad – https://www.chelseasmessyapron.com/chick-fil-a-kale-salad/
- Easy Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad Recipe: (Copycat Recipe) – https://delicatrecipes.com/chick-fil-a-kale-crunch-salad-recipe/
- Kale Crunch Salad – https://thehealthfulideas.com/kale-crunch-salad/
- Make The Chick Fil A Kale Crunch Salad Recipe – https://www.fastfoodclub.com/p/chick-fil-a-kale-crunch-salad-recipe/?srsltid=AfmBOordCa8JsOj3Npi6tt7W1Jr9rcBHD60olwjYU8ncr4qav8H-7BWI
- Kale Crunch Salad – https://healthmylifestyle.com/kale-crunch-salad/
- Copycat Chick Fil A Kale Crunch Salad Recipe – https://www.hauteandhealthyliving.com/chick-fil-a-kale-salad/
- Kale Crunch Salad (chick fil a kale salad recipe) – https://www.eatingbirdfood.com/chick-fil-a-kale-salad/
- This High-Protein Chick-fil-A Salad Is My Favorite Lunch – https://www.eatingwell.com/this-high-protein-chick-fil-a-salad-is-my-new-favorite-lunch-8383364
- Delicious chick fil a kale salad recipe 2024 |Recipes Crunch – https://recipescrunch.com/chick-fil-a-kale-salad-recipe-how-to-make/