kale Salad Chick Fil A Recipe ( Homemade Copycat Recipe)

Introduction

Ah, the refreshing zest of a kale salad! But not just any kale salad—this one is a Chick-Fil-A copycat that’s garnered nods of approval from dietitians. If you’re aiming to replicate this popular dish in your kitchen, buckle up for a culinary adventure. We’re not only going to whisk together a delightful salad but also a special apple cider and Dijon mustard vinaigrette that’s sure to tickle your taste buds. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!

Why This Recipe is Dietitian Approved

When it comes to eating well, incorporating leafy greens like kale into your diet is a no-brainer. Kale is a powerhouse of vitamins A, K, and C, and when paired with nutrient-rich ingredients like apple cider vinegar and olive oil, the health benefits multiply. This Chick-Fil-A copycat recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s a heart-healthy choice that’s low in calories but high in flavor.

Ingredients

• Fresh kale leaves: 4 cups, chopped
• Red cabbage: 1 cup, thinly sliced
• Apple: 1 medium, diced
• Candied almonds: 1/4 cup
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
• Apple cider vinegar: 3 tablespoons
• Dijon mustard: 1 tablespoon
• Lemon juice: from 1 lemon
• Maple syrup: 1 tablespoon
• Salt and pepper: to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Kale Base: Start by washing and drying the kale leaves. Remove the ribs and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Place in a large bowl.
2. Add Crunch and Color: Toss in the sliced red cabbage and diced apple to the kale.
3. Whisk the Vinaigrette: In a separate bowl, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the mixture is emulsified.
4. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the kale mixture and toss to coat evenly.
5. Garnish: Sprinkle candied almonds over the top for a delightful crunch.

Tips for Quick Candied Almonds

For a speedy version of candied almonds, lightly toast sliced almonds in a skillet, then add a drizzle of maple syrup and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously over medium heat until the nuts are caramelized and crunchy.

Tips for Assembling the Salad

Always add the dressing right before serving to keep the kale crisp and fresh. If you like your kale a bit softer, massage the dressing into the leaves and let it sit for about 10 minutes before adding other ingredients.

How to Make Apple Cider and Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette

This zesty vinaigrette is simple to make and brings a bright, tangy flavor to the salad. The key is to balance the sharpness of the mustard with the sweetness of the maple syrup and the acidity of the apple cider vinegar.

How to Make a kale Salad Chick Fil A Recipe

Follow the above steps to recreate the iconic Chick-Fil-A kale crunch salad at home. It’s all about fresh ingredients and a balance of flavors.

Variations to Recipe

• Protein Add-ons: Toss in grilled chicken or tofu for added protein.
• Cheese Pleaser: Add crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy texture.
• Nutty Flair: Swap candied almonds for walnuts or pecans.

How to Store

Store the dressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep any extra dressing separately in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Serving Ideas

Serve this kale salad as a standalone meal or as a vibrant side to grilled meats or fish. It’s perfect for summer picnics or as a nutritious lunch option.

Substitutions and Variations

• Vinegar Varieties: Use balsamic or red wine vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar for a different twist.
• Sweet Swap: Honey can replace maple syrup if preferred.

Storage

Refrigerate the salad in an airtight container. The dressing can be stored separately to extend the salad’s freshness.

Top Tip

To enhance the flavors, let the dressed kale sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the leaves to soften slightly and absorb the dressing, making every bite even more delicious.

Nutrition

• Calories: 150 per serving
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 7g

FAQS

Kale Salad Chick Fil A Recipe

Discover how to make your own Chick-Fil-A kale salad at home with this detailed guide! From dietitian-approved ingredients to storing tips, learn everything you need to create a delicious and nutritious salad.

2 from 2 votes

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Ingredients

  

Kale salad:

• 6 cups curly kale thinly sliced about 1 large bunch
• 2 tablespoon olive oil divided
• 2 cups green cabbage thinly sliced about ½ of a medium head of cabbage
• 1 cup almonds
• ½ teaspoon salt

Optional:

• 1 cup feta cheese crumbled
• 2 apples diced
• blueberries

Dijon apple cider vinaigrette:

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 3.5 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2.5 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1.5 tablespoon dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

 

Prepare the Kale Base:

• Start by washing and drying the kale leaves. Remove the ribs and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Place in a large bowl.

Add Crunch and Color:

• Toss in the sliced red cabbage and diced apple to the kale.

Whisk the Vinaigrette:

• In a separate bowl, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the mixture is emulsified.

Dress the Salad:

• Pour the dressing over the kale mixture and toss to coat evenly.

Garnish:

• Sprinkle candied almonds over the top for a delightful crunch.

Notes

For the best flavor, use organic kale and fresh produce. The quality of your ingredients will shine through in this simple yet savory dish.

Keyword salads, Sides