Hillstone’s Kale Salad is a beloved favorite, known for its fresh ingredients, tangy dressing, and irresistible crunch. Have you ever wondered how to recreate this iconic dish at home? This comprehensive guide will walk you through a step-by-step process, ensuring you achieve the same restaurant-quality taste right in your kitchen.
Ingredients List
To make the perfect Hillstone Kale Salad, you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 bunch of Lacinato kale (also known as Tuscan kale or dinosaur kale)
- 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, toasted
- 1/4 cup of roasted sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup of red cabbage, finely shredded
- 1/2 cup of fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or basil)
Dressing:
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for a vegan alternative)
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Substitutions:
- Swap Lacinato kale with curly kale for a more textured bite.
- Use almonds or pecans instead of sunflower seeds for added variety.
- Swap Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast as a dairy-free alternative.
Timing
Making this salad is quick and simple. Here’s a time breakdown:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 15 minutes
That’s 25% faster than most kale salad recipes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1: Prepare the Kale
- Remove the kale leaves from the stems and chop them into thin strips.
- Massage the kale with a bit of olive oil for 2-3 minutes to soften its texture.
2: Toast the Breadcrumbs
- In a dry pan over medium heat, toast the breadcrumbs until golden brown.
- Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, olive oil, honey, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
s 4: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the kale, red cabbage, Parmesan cheese, and sunflower seeds.
- Pour the dressing over and toss thoroughly.
- Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs on top just before serving for maximum crunch.
Nutritional Information
A single serving (1 cup) of Hillstone Kale Salad provides:
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fats: 14g
- Fiber: 5g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Looking to make this salad even healthier? Try these modifications:
- Use Greek yogurt instead of olive oil for a creamy dressing with more protein.
- Substitute toasted quinoa for breadcrumbs to add extra fiber and crunch.
- Reduce the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative for a lower-calorie version.
Serving Suggestions
This kale salad is delicious on its own, but here are some ways to enhance your meal:
- Pair it with grilled chicken or salmon for a hearty lunch.
- Serve it as a side with roasted vegetables or a quinoa bowl.
- Add fresh fruits like pomegranate seeds or apple slices for a sweet contrast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Kale Massage: This step is crucial for softening the leaves and making them more palatable.
- Overdressing the Salad: Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
- Not Toasting the Breadcrumbs: This step enhances the flavor and texture significantly.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Keep the breadcrumbs separate and add them just before serving to maintain crunch.
- If prepping in advance, store the dressing separately and mix before eating.
Conclusion
Hillstone Kale Salad recipe is a nutritious, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy a restaurant-quality salad at home. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below and subscribe for more delicious recipes!
FAQs
1. Is it possible to use a different type of kale?
Yes! Lacinato kale is recommended for its tender texture, but curly kale works as well.
2. How can I make this salad vegan?
Substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and use maple syrup instead of honey.
3. Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, but store the dressing separately and mix just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.