True Food Kitchen's kale salad is legendary. Its vibrant colors, satisfying crunch, and incredibly fresh flavors have made it a culinary icon. But replicating this restaurant-quality salad at home might seem daunting. This comprehensive guide will walk you through creating a True Food Kitchen kale salad recipe that's as close to the original as possible, exploring variations and answering common questions along the way.
What Makes True Food Kitchen's Kale Salad So Special?
The magic behind True Food Kitchen's kale salad lies in its thoughtful combination of fresh, high-quality ingredients and a perfectly balanced dressing. It’s not just about throwing kale and some toppings together; it's about a carefully orchestrated dance of textures and tastes. The emphasis is on whole, unprocessed ingredients, reflecting the restaurant's commitment to healthy eating.
The True Food Kitchen Kale Salad Recipe (Approximation)
This recipe is an approximation based on common ingredients and descriptions of the dish. Precise measurements vary slightly depending on individual preferences and the size of your serving.
Ingredients:
- Kale: 1 large bunch of lacinato kale, stems removed and chopped (about 8 cups)
- Avocado: ½ ripe avocado, diced
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed, roasted until tender
- Cranberries: ½ cup dried cranberries
- Pepitas (Pumpkin Seeds): ¼ cup toasted pepitas
- Sunflower Seeds: ¼ cup toasted sunflower seeds
- Red Onion: ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
- Goat Cheese (Optional): 2 oz crumbled goat cheese
For the Dressing:
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon maple syrup (or honey)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Kale: Massage the chopped kale with a small amount of olive oil for about 2 minutes. This tenderizes the kale and makes it less bitter.
- Roast the Sweet Potatoes: Toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
- Prepare the Dressing: Whisk together all dressing ingredients in a small bowl until well combined.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the massaged kale, roasted sweet potatoes, avocado, cranberries, pepitas, sunflower seeds, and red onion.
- Dress and Serve: Add the dressing and toss gently to coat. If using, crumble the goat cheese over the top. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What kind of kale is used in the True Food Kitchen Kale Salad?
True Food Kitchen typically uses lacinato kale, also known as dinosaur kale or Tuscan kale, for its robust texture and slightly bitter flavor. This type of kale holds up well to the other ingredients and the dressing.
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, the dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What are the health benefits of this salad?
This salad is packed with nutrients! Kale is a powerhouse of vitamins A, C, and K, while sweet potatoes provide fiber and beta-carotene. The seeds add healthy fats and protein.
Are there any variations I can make?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients you enjoy, such as shredded carrots, toasted almonds, or different types of nuts and seeds. You could also substitute the goat cheese with another cheese, or omit it entirely for a vegan version.
Can I use pre-roasted sweet potatoes?
Yes, using pre-roasted sweet potatoes can save time, but ensure they are of good quality and still retain their texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover salad is best stored separately. Store the dressing and the kale mixture in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
This comprehensive guide provides a solid foundation for recreating the delicious True Food Kitchen kale salad at home. Remember, the key is using fresh, high-quality ingredients and paying attention to the details. Enjoy!
