I’ve spent years perfecting recipes and understanding what makes a dish both delicious and nutritious. If you’re looking for a fresh, flavorful, and wholesome meal, my best Wawa Kale and Quinoa Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. This vibrant salad combines nutrient-packed kale, protein-rich quinoa, and a medley of crisp, refreshing ingredients that bring out the perfect balance of texture and taste. The secret lies in properly massaging the kale for a tender bite, cooking the quinoa to perfection, and mastering a zesty dressing that ties everything together. With just a few simple steps, you can recreate this refreshing, restaurant-quality salad at home.
Stick with me, and I’ll guide you through every detail to make this Copycat Wawa Kale and Quinoa Salad Recipe effortlessly. Whether you’re meal prepping, looking for a quick lunch, or bringing a healthy dish to share, this recipe is sure to impress. By the time you’re done, you’ll have a go-to salad that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Ready to bring this flavorful dish to life? Let’s get started!
What is Wawa Kale and Quinoa Salad?
Wawa Kale and Quinoa Salad is a refreshing, nutrient-packed dish that has gained popularity for its perfect mix of hearty greens, protein-rich grains, and flavorful toppings. It features finely chopped kale, fluffy quinoa, and a blend of fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes, dried cranberries, and nuts, all brought together with a light yet zesty dressing. This salad isn’t just about great taste—it’s also loaded with fiber, antioxidants, and plant-based protein, making it a go-to choice for those looking for a healthy, satisfying meal.
What sets this salad apart is its balance of textures and flavors. The slight bitterness of kale softens when massaged, the quinoa adds a subtle nutty bite, and the dressing enhances every ingredient with the right touch of acidity and sweetness. Whether you enjoy it as a side or a main dish, this salad delivers freshness in every bite while keeping you full and energized.
Wawa Kale and Quinoa Salad Ingredients
The Wawa Kale and Quinoa Salad is packed with wholesome ingredients that bring together the perfect mix of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Fresh kale provides a hearty base, while quinoa adds a light, nutty bite. A mix of crunchy nuts, sweet dried cranberries, and juicy tomatoes enhances every forkful. The dressing ties it all together with a refreshing balance of tangy and sweet flavors. Below is everything you need to recreate this delicious salad at home.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 4 cups kale, chopped and stems removed
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and cooked
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup sliced almonds or walnuts
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup feta cheese (optional)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Required Equipment
- Medium saucepan (for cooking quinoa)
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl or jar (for dressing)
- Whisk or spoon
- Knife and cutting board
Required Time
Total Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
How to Make Wawa Kale and Quinoa Salad (Step By Step Instructions)
Making the Wawa Kale and Quinoa Salad at home is simple and rewarding. By following a few key steps, you’ll achieve the perfect balance of textures and flavors. From cooking the quinoa just right to preparing a zesty dressing that enhances every bite, this recipe is all about fresh ingredients coming together effortlessly. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a salad that’s as good as—or even better than—the original!
Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed. Once cooked, fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Kale
Remove the thick stems from the kale and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Place the chopped kale in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over it and use your hands to massage the leaves for about 2 minutes. This helps soften the kale, making it more tender and flavorful.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, combine 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk or shake well until the dressing is fully combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Add the cooked quinoa to the bowl of massaged kale. Then, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, dried cranberries, sliced almonds or walnuts, and finely chopped red onion. If using, crumble in the feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together until well coated. Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to a day to let the flavors develop further. Enjoy your homemade Wawa Kale and Quinoa Salad fresh and full of flavor!
Tips For Wawa Kale and Quinoa Salad Recipe
A few simple tricks can take your Wawa Kale and Quinoa Salad from good to amazing. From prepping the kale properly to enhancing the dressing, small details make a big difference. Follow these tips to ensure your salad is fresh, flavorful, and perfectly balanced every time.
Use Fresh, Tender Kale
Opt for fresh kale with crisp leaves. If the leaves feel tough, massage them with olive oil for a softer texture and better flavor absorption.
Cook Quinoa Fluffy, Not Mushy
To get light and fluffy quinoa, always rinse it before cooking, use the right water ratio (2:1), and let it rest for a few minutes after cooking before fluffing with a fork.
Let the Flavors Marinate
For a more flavorful salad, let it sit for at least 10 minutes after tossing with the dressing. This allows the kale to absorb the flavors fully.
Adjust Sweetness and Acidity
If you prefer a sweeter salad, add more dried cranberries or a drizzle of honey. If you like it tangier, increase the lemon juice or apple cider vinegar.
Add Protein for a Hearty Meal
Turn this salad into a full meal by adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or avocado for extra protein and healthy fats.
Make It Ahead of Time
This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 24 hours. If making ahead, store the dressing separately and toss it in just before serving to maintain freshness.
Wawa Kale and Quinoa Salad Nutrition
Eating healthy doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor, and this Wawa Kale and Quinoa Salad proves just that. Packed with fiber, protein, and essential vitamins, this salad is a nutritious choice for any meal. If you’re mindful of your calorie intake, you can use the Wawa calorie calculator to adjust portion sizes and ingredients to fit your dietary needs. Below is the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this salad.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Protein | 9g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sugar | 10g |
| Sodium | 280mg |
These values may vary depending on ingredient choices and portion sizes. To customize the nutrition profile, consider adjusting the dressing, toppings, or protein additions based on your preferences.
FAQs
How Many Calories in a Wawa Quinoa Salad?
A typical Wawa Kale and Quinoa Salad contains around 320 calories per serving. However, the exact count may vary based on portion sizes and added ingredients. You can use the Wawa calorie calculator to get a precise estimate based on your customizations.
What to Put in a Kale Quinoa Salad?
A great kale quinoa salad includes a mix of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Key components include cooked quinoa, chopped kale, cherry tomatoes, dried cranberries, nuts (like almonds or walnuts), red onion, and a tangy dressing. You can also add feta cheese, avocado, or grilled chicken for extra texture and protein.
Are Quinoa and Kale Good for You?
Yes, both quinoa and kale are highly nutritious. Quinoa is a complete protein, packed with fiber, essential amino acids, and minerals like magnesium and iron. Kale is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, along with powerful antioxidants. Together, they create a nutrient-dense salad that supports overall health.
How Healthy Is Quinoa Salad?
Quinoa salad is a healthy meal choice, especially when combined with fresh vegetables and a light dressing. It provides a good balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats while keeping calories in check. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep, weight management, and overall wellness.
Conclusion
Easy Wawa Kale and Quinoa Salad recipe is a perfect blend of freshness, nutrition, and flavor, making it a great choice for a light meal or a satisfying side. With its nutrient-dense ingredients and easy preparation, this salad fits well into a healthy lifestyle while delivering a delicious crunch in every bite. Whether you enjoy it as-is or customize it with extra protein, it’s a meal worth adding to your recipe collection.
If you’re looking for more Wawa-inspired recipes, try the Wawa Tuna Salad Recipe for a protein-packed option or the Wawa Chicken Salad Recipe for a classic, creamy dish. Both are just as easy to make and perfect for meal prep!
I’m Marie Johnson, a passionate food blogger known for my creative and delicious recipes. Drawing inspiration from my grandmother’s kitchen, I blend tradition with innovation to create dishes that make everyday ingredients shine. Whether it’s a decadent dessert or a wholesome main course, my recipes offer a fresh take on classic favorites.