Before my visit to Erewhon, the famous LA grocery store, I searched for the must-try items and found everything from viral buffalo cauliflower to the Strawberry Probiotic Smoothie. However, the one item that consistently appeared on lists was Erewhon's Kale and White Bean Salad. It seemed simple enough, but after trying it, I was instantly hooked.

This salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Crisp massaged kale pairs perfectly with creamy avocado, crunchy seeds, and protein-rich white beans, all tossed in a sweet, zesty dressing that lightly coats each leaf. It's not just addictive; it's also incredibly nutritious, accommodating various dietary needs: vegan, gluten-free, refined sugar-free, and nut-free. The only drawback? The price tag at Erewhon, which is why I set out to recreate this salad at home for a fraction of the price.

ingredients for Kale White Bean Salad

The combination of creamy and crunchy elements creates a harmony of flavors. Plus, it's nutrient-dense, making it an ideal choice to keep you energized. Kale is rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, while white beans contribute valuable plant-based protein and fiber. Hemp, sunflower, and pumpkin seeds add healthy fats, and avocado brings the creamy texture we all love in salads.

The shining star? The dressing. Featuring lemon, garlic, honey, and dijon, it's tangy and just sweet enough, perfectly uniting all the ingredients.

chopped kale
  • kale
  • white beans
  • hemp seeds
  • sunflower seeds (I prefer sprouted ones)
  • pumpkin seeds (also enjoy sprouted)
  • avocado

For the dressing:

  • olive oil or avocado oil
  • lemon
  • honey
  • dijon mustard
  • garlic
  • salt & pepper
prep Kale White Bean Salad
easy Kale White Bean Salad
  1. Massage the Kale: Remove the tough stems from the kale and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large bowl, sprinkle with salt, and massage the leaves for about 2-3 minutes. This softens the kale, making it easier to digest. You'll know it's ready when it feels tender and shrinks in size.
  2. Mix in the Ingredients: Once your kale is tender, add the white beans, hemp seeds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and diced avocado. The mix of crunchy seeds and creamy avocado is pure perfection.
  3. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Toss Everything Together: Drizzle the dressing over the kale mixture and toss well to ensure everything is coated evenly. For extra crunch, sprinkle more hemp or pumpkin seeds on top.
  • Make It Ahead: This salad is great for meal prep since it keeps well in the fridge. The kale and beans absorb the dressing without becoming soggy, making it perfect for advance preparation. If prepping for the week, consider adding the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh.
  • Nutrition Boost: This salad is loaded with fiber, plant protein, and healthy fats. Hemp seeds are a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart and brain health. White beans not only provide protein but also help stabilize blood sugar, making this dish as nutritious as it is tasty.
  • Customize It: Looking for additional protein? Grilled chicken, tofu, or a poached egg on top would be fantastic. You could also add feta or goat cheese for creaminess. For more crunch, toss in some toasted walnuts or almonds.

Kale is a hardy green, so this salad will last 3-4 days in the fridge without wilting. Store it in an airtight container, and remember to add the avocado right before serving to prevent browning. It's an ideal make-ahead lunch or side dish for a busy week.

This copycat Kale White Bean Salad is sure to become a favorite. Whether you whip it up for a quick lunch, as a dinner side, or for meal prep, it ticks all the boxes: simple, healthy, and absolutely delicious. Let us know if you try it!

best Kale White Bean Salad

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Description

A viral sensation for a reason: massaged kale is tossed with creamy avocado, crunchy seeds, white beans, and a sweet lemony dressing that perfectly coats each leaf.


Ingredients

  • 1 bunch kale
  • 1/2 can white beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/4 cup hemp seeds
  • 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (I like the sprouted ones)
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (also enjoy sprouted)
  • 1 avocado, chopped

for the dressing:

  • 1/4 cup olive or avocado oil
  • Juice of 1 large lemon
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon dijon
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt & pepper

Instructions

  1. Combine the dressing ingredients in a mason jar and shake well.
  2. In a large bowl, massage the kale with your hands and a pinch of salt until it becomes soft. Add all remaining ingredients and toss with dressing.
  • Prep Time: 10

Keywords: kale white bean salad