Get ready to turn up the taste with our awesome recipe for a Copycat Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad. This healthy and delicious salad is a total game-changer, and it's so easy to make at home. We're about to break down the secret ingredients and show you step-by-step how to whip up this crave-worthy dish. So get your aprons on and let's make something you and your taste buds will love!
Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad Recipe: A Flavorful Kitchen Delight
Imagine savoring the crisp crunch of kale and shredded cabbage, smothered in a tangy apple Dijon dressing. Yes, you can now recreate this irresistible salad from the comfort of your home! Get ready to relish the flavors of Chick-fil-A’s Kale Crunch Salad without the hassle of the drive-thru.
Ingredients:
For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup (or honey, for a sweeter version)
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons distilled vinegar
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed for extra zest)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (to balance the sweetness)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for a subtle kick)
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (for a smooth and luscious texture)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for that signature tang)
For the Salad:
- 9 cups kale (chopped and packed, for a vibrant green base)
- 2 1/2 cups green cabbage (shredded, for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup whole almonds (for a nutty crunch)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (melted, for a healthier fat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional, to enhance the flavors)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Roast the Almonds: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss the almonds in melted coconut oil and a sprinkle of salt for a tantalizing crunch. Spread them evenly on a baking tray and roast for 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
Craft the Apple Dijon Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients. Start by whisking the vinegars, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Then, gradually pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking until it’s smooth and combined. The Dijon mustard will add that extra tanginess that complements the kale’s earthy flavor.
Prepare the Kale: Remove the tough ribs from the kale leaves and discard them. Add the shredded cabbage to the kale and give them a good toss.
Massage the Kale: It’s time for a bit of a handsy step! Pour the dressing over the kale mixture and massage it for about 5 minutes. This gentle kneading helps the kale absorb the dressing’s flavors and soften its texture.
Marinate: Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. But if you’re not in a rush, let it marinate overnight to allow the flavors to intertwine beautifully.
Add Almonds and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle the roasted almonds over the salad and toss gently. Feel free to taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you want a brighter tang, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. For a touch of saltiness, sprinkle a little more salt.
Tips:
- If you don’t have coconut oil, you can substitute it with olive oil or avocado oil.
- For a sweeter dressing, add a bit more maple syrup or honey.
- If you’re short on time, you can skip the marinating step. However, marinating will result in a more flavorful salad.
- Enjoy your salad fresh for the best crunch and flavor.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Quick and easy to make
- Healthy and nutritious
- Bursting with flavors and textures
- Customizable to your taste preferences
Cons:
- Not as convenient as grabbing a salad from the drive-thru
- Requires some prep time (chopping, roasting, and massaging)
- Not suitable for those with nut allergies
For endless variations of the classic Chick Fil A Kale Crunch Salad, click here for a plethora of ideas. Interested in the Kale Crunch Salad Copycat Recipe? Click here for a spot-on homemade version.
How to make Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad at home?
Get ready to savor a homemade version of Chick-fil-A’s beloved Kale Crunch Salad.
Step 1: The Apple Dijon Dressing
This dressing is the heart of the salad. Blend maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Gradually incorporate olive oil until it all comes together like a dream.
Step 2: Kale and Cabbage Calling
Take kale and remove the stems. Chop it into bite-sized pieces. Next, shred some green cabbage.
Step 3: Massage Therapy for Kale
Time for a little hand massage! Pour the dressing over the kale and cabbage. Get in there and massage them for about 5 minutes, or until the kale softens up a bit.
Step 4: Marinate Madness
Cover the kale and cabbage duo and pop them in the fridge for a minimum of 30 minutes, or even overnight if you’re feeling patient. This gives the flavors a chance to mingle and get to know each other.
Step 5: Toppings Extravaganza
Now, it’s time for the fun part—toppings! Throw in some roasted almonds for some extra crunch. Feel free to add any other favorites, like shredded carrots, crumbled feta, or a sprinkle of dried cranberries.
Step 6: Toss and Enjoy
Give everything a good toss and dig in! Your very own Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad, made with love from your kitchen.
Customization Corner
Make this salad your own playground! You can swap out the cabbage for spinach or arugula if you prefer. Experiment with different toppings like sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or bacon bits. The possibilities are endless!
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Easy to make, even for kitchen newbies
- Customizable to your taste
- Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options
Cons:
- Massaging the kale may require a little elbow grease
- Marination time can take away from immediate salad cravings
What are the ingredients in Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad?
Looking to recreate Chick-fil-A’s tasty Kale Crunch Salad at home? Here’s what you need to gather:
- Kale: It’s the star of the show, giving your salad a crisp backbone.
- Green cabbage: This addition brings a hint of sweetness and extra crunch.
- Almonds: Roasted and chopped, these little nuts will add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Extra virgin olive oil: It’s not just for dressing; it also adds a healthy dose of fat to the almonds.
- Apple juice: This sweetens the dressing, blending all the flavors together.
- Dijon mustard: It brings that tangy kick to the party.
- Apple cider vinegar: A dash of this will balance out the flavors with a bit of acidity.
And there you have it, folks! These ingredients will help you craft a copycat Kale Crunch Salad that rivals the original.
Key Points to Remember
- This salad is all about combining kale, cabbage, almonds, and a flavorful dressing.
- The dressing is a mix of olive oil, apple juice, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
- Don’t forget to roast and chop the almonds for that extra burst of flavor.
- This salad packs a nutritional punch with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.
So go forth, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the deliciousness that is Chick-fil-A’s Kale Crunch Salad, all in the comfort of your own home!
Is Chick-fil-A’s Kale Crunch Salad Worth the Hype?
Hungry for a quick and healthy bite? Chick-fil-A’s Kale Crunch Salad might be on your radar. But before you dive in, let’s decode its nutritional value to see if it’s a salad worth savoring.
The Nutrient Breakdown
- Calories: 360 - Not too bad for a side or a light lunch
- Fat: 25 grams (4 grams saturated fat) - A mix of good unsaturated and not-so-great saturated fats
- Cholesterol: 30 milligrams - Not a major concern unless you’re watching your cholesterol levels
- Sodium: 1,030 milligrams - A bit high, so beware if you’re sensitive to salt
- Carbohydrates: 28 grams (7 grams fiber, 21 grams sugar) - Good fiber content, but the added sugar raises an eyebrow
- Protein: 15 grams - A satisfying amount for a salad
The Health Benefits
- Fiber powerhouse: 7 grams of fiber per serving keeps you feeling full and your digestive system happy.
- Protein boost: 15 grams of protein helps build and repair muscles, supporting your overall health.
- Heart-healthy fats: Most of the fat content is unsaturated, which can help lower cholesterol and keep your heart ticking smoothly.
- Vitamin and mineral wonderland: Rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium, which are essential for your body’s proper functioning.
The Drawbacks
- Sodium overload: 1,030 milligrams of sodium can spike your blood pressure and cause other health issues if consumed excessively.
- Added sugar: 21 grams of added sugar can contribute to weight gain and other health concerns if you’re not careful.
The Verdict: Is It a Healthy Choice?
The Kale Crunch Salad can be a decent choice for a fast-food salad. It offers a good amount of fiber, protein, and healthy fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. However, keep in mind the high sodium and added sugar content. Moderation is key if you’re trying to maintain a healthy diet.
Tips for Making It Healthier
- Opt for a smaller portion: Half a salad or sharing it with a companion can reduce your sodium and sugar intake.
- Control your toppings: Choose grilled or breaded chicken instead of fried and avoid heavy dressings.
- Add extra veggies: Sneak in some sliced cucumber, bell peppers, or carrots to boost your fiber and nutrient intake.
- Consider the dressing: If you’re counting calories, go light on the dressing or use a low-fat option.
FAQ
Q1: What is Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad?
A1: Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad is a popular side dish featuring a blend of crispy kale, shredded green cabbage, and crunchy roasted almonds. It’s known for its flavorful apple Dijon dressing, which adds a sweet and tangy touch to the salad.
Q2: How to make Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad at home?
A2: You can easily recreate the Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad at home with just a few simple steps. Start by massaging chopped kale with the apple Dijon dressing, then add shredded cabbage. Top it off with roasted almonds and let the salad marinate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Q3: What are the ingredients in Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad?
A3: Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad is made with fresh kale, shredded green cabbage, roasted almonds, and an apple Dijon dressing. The dressing is crafted with maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Q4: Is Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad healthy?
A4: Yes, Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad is a healthy option. It’s packed with nutrients from the kale, cabbage, and almonds, and the apple Dijon dressing adds a touch of sweetness without sacrificing nutritional value.
Q5: What are some tips for making Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad?
A5: To enhance the flavor and texture of your homemade Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad, try massaging the kale with the dressing for a few minutes to soften it. Additionally, roast the almonds for a more pronounced crunch and let the salad marinate for longer for deeper flavors.