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Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad (Copycat)

Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad (Copycat)
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This crisp, tangy salad is a spot-on replica of the beloved Chick-fil-A side, featuring tender curly kale and shredded green cabbage tossed with a sweet-tart maple mustard vinaigrette and crunchy toasted almonds. The massaged kale ensures a tender texture while the bright dressing and nutty almonds create a perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups chopped curly kale (about 1 bunch), stems removed and leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups finely shredded green cabbage
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds
  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Toast the almonds: Place sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Cook, stirring frequently, for 3-5 minutes until they turn golden and become fragrant. Immediately transfer to a plate to cool completely; they continue toasting if left in the hot pan.
  2. Prepare the kale: Stack several kale leaves, roll them tightly lengthwise, and slice crosswise into thin ribbons (chiffonade). Place all sliced kale in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Massage the kale: Drizzle about 1 teaspoon of olive oil (separate from dressing) over the kale. Using your hands, firmly rub and squeeze the leaves for 1-2 minutes until they darken, soften, and reduce in volume. This breaks down fibrous cell walls and reduces bitterness.
  4. Add the shredded cabbage to the bowl with the kale. Toss with your hands to combine evenly.
  5. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to create a emulsified vinaigrette.
  6. Pour the dressing over the kale and cabbage mixture. Toss thoroughly with tongs or your hands until every leaf is lightly coated.
  7. Add the cooled toasted almonds and toss gently once more to distribute them evenly without crushing.
  8. Let the salad rest at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the kale to further soften. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days.

Notes

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The almonds will lose crunch over time, so if making ahead, add them just before serving. Do not freeze. If serving after refrigeration, let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes or add a splash of vinegar to refresh the dressing.

Nutrition

Keywords: kale crunch salad, chick fil a copycat, kale salad recipe, almond kale salad, maple mustard dressing, side salad, healthy salad, quick salad, no-cook recipe, copycat chick fil a

Find it online: https://copycatkitchenco.com/copycat-chick-fil-a-kale-crunch-salad/