Kale Salad from True Food Kitchen features fresh, crisp kale tossed with sweet dried cherries, crunchy spiced pecans, and tangy feta cheese, all drizzled with a zesty lemon vinaigrette, delivering a vibrant mix of flavors and textures.
Equipments
- Salad bowl
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Salad spinner
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Small mixing bowl (for vinaigrette)
- Whisk
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 1 bunch kale
- 1/2 cup dried cherries
- 1/2 cup spiced pecans
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt
- Black pepper
Fresh kale is essential for the best texture and flavor, so be sure to remove the tough stems before chopping to make it more tender. Dried cherries add natural sweetness, but you can substitute with dried cranberries or raisins if needed. Spiced pecans provide a crunchy contrast, and you can easily make your own by roasting pecans with cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne. The zesty lemon vinaigrette balances the dish with its bright acidity, so use fresh lemon juice for optimal taste. Your homemade Kale Salad from True Food Kitchen copycat menu will capture the vibrant mix of flavors with these key ingredients.
Instructions
- Wash and dry the kale using the salad spinner.
- Remove kale stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces with the chef’s knife and cutting board.
- Add kale to the salad bowl.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper to make the vinaigrette.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the kale.
- Massage the vinaigrette into the kale with your hands or tongs for 1-2 minutes.
- Add dried cherries, spiced pecans, and crumbled feta to the bowl.
- Toss everything together with tongs until well combined.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Kale Salad from True Food Kitchen copycat menu combines fresh kale, dried cherries, spiced pecans, and feta cheese with a zesty lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing and nutrient-packed dish. If you can't find spiced pecans, substitute with toasted walnuts or almonds to maintain a crunchy texture. For a dairy-free version, replace feta cheese with avocado slices or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast. When massaging kale to soften it, do so gently to avoid bruising the leaves, which helps improve the salad's texture and flavor absorption. Your lemon vinaigrette can be adjusted by swapping honey with maple syrup for a vegan alternative.
Tips
Make sure to thoroughly wash and dry the kale using a salad spinner to remove any grit and ensure crispness. When chopping kale, remove the tough stems to avoid bitterness and create bite-sized pieces that are easier to eat. Massaging the vinaigrette into the kale for 1-2 minutes softens the leaves and helps them absorb the flavors, enhancing the salad's texture and taste. Your dried cherries, spiced pecans, and crumbled feta should be added last and gently tossed to maintain their distinct textures and flavors.
Nutritions
Kale Salad from True Food Kitchen is rich in vitamins A, C, and K primarily from the fresh kale, supporting immune health and bone strength. The dried cherries add antioxidants and natural sweetness, while spiced pecans contribute healthy fats, fiber, and protein for sustained energy. Feta cheese provides calcium and a savory touch, enhancing nutrient absorption when paired with the lemon vinaigrette made from extra-virgin olive oil. This nutrient-dense combination ensures your salad delivers a balanced mix of essential nutrients and satisfying flavors.
Storage
Store your kale salad in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the vinaigrette from sogging the greens. Keep the salad refrigerated and consume within 1-2 days for optimal taste and texture. For best results, store dried cherries, spiced pecans, and feta separately and combine just before serving.
Variation or Alternatives
Substitute dried cherries with dried cranberries or blueberries to adjust sweetness and tartness according to your preference. Swap spiced pecans for candied walnuts or toasted almonds to maintain crunch while varying the nutty flavor profile. Replace feta cheese with crumbled goat cheese or shaved Parmesan for a creamier or sharper cheese element. To enhance kale's tenderness, try massaging the vinaigrette into the leaves for an extra 3-4 minutes before adding the toppings.
Allergies
Kale Salad from True Food Kitchen contains common allergens such as pecans, which can trigger nut allergies, and feta cheese, posing a risk for those with dairy intolerance. Your sensitivity to mustard should also be considered, as Dijon mustard is included in the lemon vinaigrette. People with these allergies should take caution or seek alternatives to avoid adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
True Food Kitchen's Kale Salad stands out due to its combination of nutrient-dense kale, crunchy toppings, and a zesty, well-balanced dressing that enhances the earthy flavors. The salad features ingredients like roasted butternut squash, apples, and pumpkin seeds, delivering a satisfying mix of textures and seasonal freshness. Many customers appreciate the health benefits paired with a gourmet taste profile, making it a favorite on the menu. You'll find making a copycat version worthwhile because it allows you to enjoy this wholesome, flavorful dish any time from the comfort of your home.