The Official Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Dressing
Chick-fil-A's popular Kale Crunch side salad owes its memorable flavor to the tangy and slightly sweet Apple Cider and Dijon Mustard vinaigrette. This proprietary dressing is specially crafted to complement the mix of curly kale and green cabbage, providing a crisp and refreshing contrast to the salted, roasted almonds. The Dijon mustard gives it a spicy kick and helps to emulsify the dressing, while the apple cider vinegar provides a pleasant acidity. While the exact commercial recipe is kept secret, many devoted fans and culinary experts have developed impressive copycat versions that capture the essence of the original.
Key Ingredients in the Kale Crunch Vinaigrette
To recreate the delicious vinaigrette at home, you'll need a handful of accessible ingredients:
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Provides the signature tanginess that cuts through the earthy flavor of the kale.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Forms the base of the vinaigrette, offering a smooth mouthfeel and rich flavor.
- Dijon Mustard: Acts as an emulsifier, binding the oil and vinegar together while adding a sharp, savory note.
- Sweetener (Maple Syrup or Honey): Balances the acidity of the vinegar and the sharpness of the Dijon. Many copycat recipes use maple syrup, which is a common choice for vinaigrettes.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle, savory depth to the dressing.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Enhance the overall flavor profile.
How to Make a Copycat Kale Crunch Vinaigrette
Creating your own version of this dressing is simple and requires minimal time. The process involves whisking all the ingredients together to form a well-balanced emulsion.
- Gather ingredients: Combine all liquid and dry ingredients in a jar with a tight-fitting lid. A mason jar works perfectly for this.
- Combine and shake: Add the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the jar.
- Emulsify: Secure the lid and shake the jar vigorously for about 20 seconds. Continue shaking until the mixture is creamy and well-combined.
- Taste and adjust: Give the dressing a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. If it's too tangy, add a touch more maple syrup. If it needs more kick, add a bit more Dijon mustard.
Copycat Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad Recipe
To complete the full side salad experience, combine the vinaigrette with the other core components. This recipe makes for a fresh, healthy, and satisfying side dish.
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Ingredients
- 4 cups chopped kale (stems removed)
- 2 cups shredded green or red cabbage
- ½ cup toasted slivered or sliced almonds
- ½ cup prepared copycat vinaigrette
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Instructions
- Massage the kale: In a large bowl, place the chopped kale. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the kale and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Use your hands to massage the leaves for 1–2 minutes until they become tender and soften. This step is crucial for breaking down the kale's fibrous texture.
- Add cabbage and almonds: Add the shredded cabbage and toasted almonds to the bowl.
- Dress the salad: Pour the prepared copycat vinaigrette over the ingredients.
- Toss and serve: Toss everything together until the kale and cabbage are evenly coated in the dressing. Serve immediately or allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for a deeper flavor.
Comparison: Kale Crunch vs. Superfood Side (Former Menu Item)
| Feature | Kale Crunch Side | Superfood Side (Retired) |
|---|---|---|
| Greens | Curly kale and green cabbage | Kale and broccolini blend |
| Dressing | Apple Cider and Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette | Maple Vinaigrette |
| Crunchy Topping | Salted, roasted almonds | Roasted nuts (almonds, pecans) |
| Other Ingredients | Simple, no other fruits | Dried sour cherries |
| Primary Flavor | Tangy, slightly sweet, and savory | Sweet and tangy |
| Status | Current menu item | Replaced by the Kale Crunch Side |
Conclusion
The dressing that Chick-fil-A uses on the Kale Crunch side salad is an Apple Cider and Dijon Mustard vinaigrette, giving it its iconic tangy and savory flavor profile. By following a simple copycat recipe, you can easily replicate this delicious dressing at home. Combining olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup, you can create a vinaigrette that perfectly mimics the original and completes your homemade version of the popular side salad. This approach not only allows you to enjoy the same great taste but also gives you control over the ingredients and quality. For more information on Chick-fil-A's menu items, visit their official website for nutritional information.
Note: While some versions of the recipe online suggest ingredients like honey or different vinegars, the most authentic copycat recipes stick closely to the apple cider and dijon mustard base.
