Erewhon Inspired Plant-Based Kale and White Bean Salad

This is a famous salad from Erewhon, but I'm making it a little different with what I have and what I love. Normally, this salad features sunflower seeds, but I'm using pistachios instead. This salad is amazing for meal prepping—the kale holds up really well sitting on the dressing for a few days. It's delicious, protein-packed, super easy, and super simple.

Vegan Kale and White Bean Salad in Mason Jars

Servings: 4 Mason Jars

Dietary: Vegan, Gluten-free

Ingredients:

• Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil

  • 3 tbsp lemon juice

  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

  • 2 tsp maple syrup

  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

  • 1 clove garlic, minced

  • Salt and pepper to taste

• Salad Layers:

  • 4 cups kale, chopped

  • 1 cucumber, finely sliced

  • 2 cups cooked white northern beans

  • 1/4 cup hemp seeds

  • 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds

  • 1/4 cup pistachios, shelled and chopped

  • 1/2 avocado (when serving)

  • Nutritional Yeast (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

2. Assemble the Mason Jars:

   • Layer 1: Pour an equal amount of the dressing into the bottom of each mason jar.

   • Layer 2: Add a generous handful of chopped & massaged kale to each jar, pressing it down slightly to fit.

   • Layer 3: Add a layer of finely sliced cucumber on top of the kale.

   • Layer 4: Spoon in the cooked white northern beans.

   • Layer 5: Sprinkle lots of hemp seeds, pumpkin seeds, and chopped pistachios on top.

3. Seal and Store:

   • Screw on the lids and store the mason jars in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3-4 days

When you're ready to eat, simply shake the jar to distribute the dressing, or pour the contents into a bowl and enjoy your protein-packed, crunchy, and flavorful salad. Best part is topping with fresh avocado so be sure to add this! Optional, and my personal favorite, is sprinkling with nutritional yeast. Hope you love it!