We’ve always been fans of the Hillstone Salad, a fresh and crave-worthy favorite from the iconic Hillstone restaurant chain. Originating from their commitment to simple yet sophisticated flavors, it’s the perfect blend of crisp greens, hearty toppings, and a zesty dressing that keeps us coming back for more.
In our kitchen, we’re excited to recreate this crowd-pleaser so you can enjoy it at home. Let’s explore how easy it is to whip up this salad that’s sure to become a go-to in your weekly routine.
Ingredients
As we dive into recreating our favorite Hillstone Salad at home, let’s gather the fresh, vibrant ingredients that make this dish a standout. We’ll list them in the order they are typically used, from base to toppings and dressing, with precise measurements and any necessary prep notes for effortless preparation.
Salad Base
- 4 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and romaine; wash and dry thoroughly for crisp texture)
- 1 medium cucumber (sliced into thin rounds; peel if desired for a smoother bite)
Vegetables and Add-Ins
- 2 medium tomatoes (diced into ½-inch pieces; use ripe, juicy varieties like heirloom for enhanced flavor)
- 1 ripe avocado (halved, pitted, and sliced; choose one that’s firm yet yielding for the perfect creaminess)
- ½ red onion (thinly sliced; soak in cold water for 5 minutes to reduce sharpness)
Protein and Extras
- 8 ounces grilled chicken breast (sliced into strips; season with salt and pepper before grilling for added depth)
- ¼ cup toasted almonds (roughly chopped; toast in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden for a nutty crunch)
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (use high-quality, full-fat for a tangy contrast)
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (use a robust variety to tie flavors together)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (high-quality, aged if possible, for a sweet-acidic balance)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (whisk in for emulsification and a subtle kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste (start with ½ teaspoon each and adjust based on your preference for seasoning)
Tools and Equipment
Before we dive into preparing our fresh and flavorful Hillstone Salad, let’s gather the essential tools and equipment. These items help us streamline the process, ensuring our greens are crisp, our vegetables are perfectly chopped, and our dressing is well-emulsified.
We recommend the following tools, organized by their primary use in the recipe:
- Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: A sturdy cutting board paired with a sharp chef’s knife is crucial for slicing cucumbers, tomatoes, and avocado with precision. This ensures even pieces that blend seamlessly in the salad.
- Mixing Bowls: Use at least two medium-sized mixing bowls—one for combining greens and vegetables, and another for whisking the dressing. Opt for glass or stainless steel for easy cleaning and to avoid any flavor transfer.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to our dressing’s balance, so have a set of measuring cups and spoons on hand. This helps us add the exact amounts of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard without guesswork.
- Whisk or Fork: A whisk works best for blending the dressing ingredients smoothly, but a sturdy fork can substitute if needed. This tool ensures our olive oil and vinegar emulsify properly for a cohesive flavor.
- Salad Spinner or Colander: To keep our mixed greens fresh and dry, a salad spinner is ideal for removing excess water after washing. If you don’t have one, a colander followed by patting with a clean kitchen towel will do the trick.
- Grill Pan or Skillet (if including protein): For grilled chicken or other proteins, use a grill pan for those signature char marks or a skillet for quick indoor cooking. This adds the smoky depth that elevates our salad.
With these tools ready, we’re set to move efficiently from ingredients to assembly, making our Hillstone Salad preparation a breeze.
Instructions
We guide you through crafting the Hillstone Salad Recipe with simple, step-by-step actions that transform fresh ingredients into a vibrant, flavorful dish. Let’s ensure our preparation is efficient and results in a salad bursting with textures and tastes.
Prepare the Ingredients
First, we wash and dry the greens to keep them crisp. Start by rinsing 2 cups of mixed greens under cold water in a salad spinner or colander, then spin or pat dry to remove excess moisture—this prevents a soggy salad.
Next, chop the vegetables for added crunch. Dice 1 medium cucumber into 1/4-inch pieces, slice 2 ripe tomatoes into wedges, and cube 1 avocado carefully to maintain its creamy texture. For the protein, grill 6 ounces of chicken breast on a preheated grill pan or skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, then let it rest and slice into strips.
Toast the nuts to enhance their nutty flavor. Heat 1/4 cup of almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until golden brown, then set aside to cool. Finally, crumble 1/4 cup of feta cheese for a tangy finish. With these steps, our ingredients are prepped and ready, amplifying the fresh, zesty essence of the Hillstone Salad Recipe.
Make the Dressing
We begin by whisking the base ingredients together in a small mixing bowl. Combine 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, whisking vigorously for about 1 minute until the mixture emulsifies into a smooth, glossy dressing.
Add seasonings to balance the flavors. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and optionally 1 minced garlic clove for a punch of aroma. Taste and adjust as needed—our dressing should be tangy and robust, perfectly complementing the fresh components of the Hillstone Salad Recipe. Once blended, set it aside to let the flavors meld.
Assemble the Salad
We layer the elements in a large serving bowl to create a harmonious mix of colors and textures. Start with the base by adding the mixed greens, then top with the chopped cucumber, tomatoes, and avocado for a refreshing crunch.
Incorporate the protein and extras next. Add the sliced grilled chicken, toasted almonds, and crumbled feta cheese, tossing gently to distribute evenly. Drizzle 2-3 tablespoons of the dressing over the salad and mix lightly with tongs until every bite is coated—the result is a symphony of crisp, creamy, and savory sensations that capture the signature appeal of the Hillstone Salad Recipe.
Make-Ahead and Storage
To keep our Hillstone Salad fresh and flavorful, we recommend planning ahead while prioritizing quality. This approach helps maintain the salad’s crisp greens, juicy vegetables, and vibrant dressing without compromising texture or taste.
Make-Ahead Tips
We can prepare several components of the Hillstone Salad in advance to streamline assembly and enhance efficiency. Focus on steps that preserve the dish’s sensory appeal—crisp bites, nutty aromas, and tangy flavors.
- Wash and chop vegetables: We suggest preparing mixed greens, cucumber, and tomatoes up to 24 hours ahead. Store them in the refrigerator to retain their crunch and freshness, preventing wilting that could dull the salad’s vibrant colors and textures.
- Grill the protein: Our favorite method is to grill chicken or other proteins a day in advance. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to lock in its smoky essence and juicy tenderness.
- Toast the nuts: We can toast almonds ahead of time for that irresistible nutty flavor. Prepare them up to two days in advance and store in a sealed bag at room temperature to avoid sogginess.
- Make the dressing: Whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and seasonings up to three days before. This allows the flavors to meld, creating a more robust tang that elevates the salad’s overall appeal.
- Avoid early assembly: Do not combine ingredients like avocado and greens too soon, as they can become mushy and lose their fresh, crisp allure.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage ensures our Hillstone Salad components stay at their best, preserving the balance of fresh, crunchy elements and savory proteins. We always recommend using airtight containers to minimize exposure to air and moisture.
| Component | Recommended Storage Time | Best Storage Method | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mixed greens and vegetables (e.g., cucumber, tomatoes) | Up to 1 day | In the refrigerator in a sealed container or salad spinner | Keeps crispness; pat dry to prevent excess moisture that could lead to sogginess |
| Grilled chicken or protein | Up to 2 days | Wrapped tightly in the fridge | Maintains juiciness; reheat gently to preserve flavor without drying out |
| Toasted nuts | Up to 2 days | In an airtight container at room temperature | Retains crunch; avoid refrigeration to prevent staleness |
| Dressing | Up to 3 days | In a glass jar or sealed container in the fridge | Shake before use to emulsify and enhance the tangy, herbaceous notes |
| Assembled salad | Up to 1 hour | Covered in the fridge | Only if necessary; tossing too early can wilt greens, so assemble just before serving for peak freshness |
By following these strategies, we ensure every bite of our Hillstone Salad delivers the same restaurant-quality experience right at home.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored our take on the Hillstone Salad recipe. It’s a simple way to bring fresh, restaurant-quality flavors into your kitchen.
By using these tips, you’ll enjoy meals that feel special and nutritious every time. Give it a try and make it a staple in your routine—we know you’ll love the results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hillstone Salad?
The Hillstone Salad is a popular dish from the Hillstone restaurant chain, featuring fresh mixed greens, veggies like tomatoes and avocado, proteins such as grilled chicken, and extras like toasted almonds and feta cheese. It’s celebrated for its flavorful combination and easy home recreation, making it a go-to for healthy, restaurant-quality meals.
What ingredients are needed for the Hillstone Salad?
You’ll need a base of mixed greens and cucumber, vegetables like tomatoes and avocado, protein options such as grilled chicken, and additions like toasted almonds and feta cheese. The dressing includes olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and seasonings. This simple list ensures a fresh, balanced salad for everyday enjoyment.
What tools are required to make the Hillstone Salad?
Essential tools include a sturdy cutting board and chef’s knife for chopping, mixing bowls for combining ingredients, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a whisk or fork for the dressing, a salad spinner or colander for drying greens, and a grill pan or skillet for cooking proteins. These basics make preparation efficient and straightforward.
How do I prepare the Hillstone Salad step by step?
Start by washing and drying greens, then chop vegetables and grill the chicken. Toast nuts for extra flavor and crumble feta. Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and seasonings for the dressing. Layer ingredients in a bowl and toss with dressing for a vibrant, tasty salad ready in minutes.
Can I make the Hillstone Salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare components like greens, vegetables, grilled protein, toasted nuts, and dressing in advance to save time. Store them separately to maintain freshness and texture. This approach lets you assemble a fresh salad quickly, ideal for meal prep while keeping that restaurant-quality appeal.
How should I store the Hillstone Salad?
Store greens and vegetables in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2-3 days to keep them crisp. Keep proteins and nuts separate to avoid sogginess, and refrigerate the dressing. Assemble just before serving to preserve flavors and textures, ensuring your salad stays fresh and delicious.