Hillstone Emerald Kale Copycat Salad

 

If you’ve never been to any of the six Hillstone Restaurants in coastal California, then friends, I have to say: you’re missing out. Known for their house-made burgers and delicious salads, Hillstone is one of my favorite restaurants. But, like most good things in life, Hillstone isn’t cheap, and their Emerald Kale Salad will run you nearly $25 after tax. Expensive? Yes, but worth it? Absolutely.

Ingredients:
For the Salad:
2 Bunches Dino Kale finely chopped with the stems removed
2 Cups Green Cabbage finely chopped
1 Bunch Green Onions finely sliced
½ Cup Cilantro chopped
¼ Cup Mint Leaves chopped
⅔ Cup Parmesan Cheese finely grated
½ Cup Peanuts roasted and salted
For the Dressing:
1 Lime juiced
1 Teaspoon Rice Vinegar
2 Teaspoons Dijon Mustard
1 Tablespoon Maple Syrup
⅓ Cup Sesame Oil
1 Teaspoon Sea Salt
½ Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
1 Pinch Crushed Red Pepper Flakes

Directions

Start by preparing your dressing. Whisk all of the dressing ingredients together in a small bowl, until they're fully combined. Set aside.

Next, prepare the salad. Wash and chop the kale and cabbage and add them to a large bowl.

Add about a teaspoon of salt to the bowl, and gently massage the salt into the kale and cabbage, until they start to soften. This should take about 1-2 minutes.

Then, add the green onions, cilantro, mint, parmesan, and peanuts to the bowl.

Finally, add in the dressing and toss until the salad is fully combined.
Once done, plate the salad and garnish with a lime wedge and more parmesan cheese, if desired.