Quick & Easy Salad Hack for Busy Days: Costco Kale Mix with a Twist!
We’ve all been there: it’s a busy day, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours preparing a healthy lunch. But you don’t have to! I’ve got a super simple, nutritious salad hack that’s perfect for those hectic days when you want something fresh but quick.
The Base: Costco Organic Kale Salad Mix
I love grabbing the organic kale salad mix from Costco. It’s convenient, packed with nutrients, and provides the perfect foundation for a quick meal. But here’s the trick: skip the dressing and toppings that come with the kit. Those packets often contain processed ingredients, oils, and sugars that don’t align with a whole food, plant-based lifestyle.
Instead, I like to switch things up with my own healthy add-ins, keeping it fresh, tasty, and packed with even more nutrients.
Add-Ins: Grapes & Roasted Chickpeas
To elevate this simple kale salad, I tossed in a handful of purple grapes for natural sweetness and air-fried roasted chickpeas for a crunch that’s full of plant-based protein.
How I Make My Chickpeas:
Drain and rinse a can of chickpeas, then pat them dry.
Toss them in your air fryer for about 5 minutes at 400°F. (No oil needed!)
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on them—they can start popping like popcorn if you let them cook too long!
These roasted chickpeas add a perfect crunch and are a great alternative to processed croutons. Plus, they’re full of fiber and help keep you feeling full longer.
The Dressing: Healthy Walnut Balsamic Vinaigrette
Now for the finishing touch: a yummy walnut balsamic vinaigrette. It’s made with only whole foods, no oil, and no added sugar. This dressing is so flavorful and nourishing, and it’s a fantastic way to avoid the highly processed dressings that often come with pre-made salad kits.
I’m all about keeping things healthy without sacrificing flavor, and this dressing does exactly that. It’s packed with healthy fats from walnuts and adds a rich, tangy flavor to your salad.
Want to try the walnut balsamic vinaigrette? [Click here for the dressing!]
Why This Salad Works:
Nutrient-Dense: Kale, grapes, and chickpeas bring a range of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Quick & Easy: It takes just minutes to prepare—perfect for busy workdays or when you're on the go.
Wholesome Ingredients: No processed toppings or dressings here. Everything is made with whole, plant-based foods.
Versatile: You can easily switch up the toppings to keep it interesting! Try adding your favorite fruits, seeds, or other roasted veggies.
Final Thoughts
This salad hack is a perfect example of how quick and easy healthy eating can be. By making a few small swaps—like air-fried chickpeas and a healthy dressing—you can turn a store-bought salad kit into a nutritious, delicious meal. Plus, it’s a great way to show yourself (and your family) that whole food, plant-based eating is both doable and satisfying.
Give it a try and let me know what you think!
Stay nourished and energized!