Kale Salad with Cider Sorghum Vinaigrette

Mar 02, 2026

Kale Salad with Cider Sorghum Vinaigrette  (V,V2,AVG,AVM)

Bring bold, seasonal flavor to your 2026 Kentucky Derby celebration with this official Kale Salad with Cider Sorghum Vinaigrette, served onsite at Churchill Downs. This vibrant Derby Day salad features finely chopped kale, red cabbage, carrots, red quinoa, dried cherries, sunflower seeds, and pickled red onions for a colorful and nutrient rich dish worthy of the Kentucky Derby menu.

The apple cider vinegar and sorghum vinaigrette delivers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, creating a bright Southern inspired dressing that complements the hearty greens. Ideal for a Kentucky Derby party spread or Kentucky Oaks brunch, this kale salad recipe blends fresh ingredients with classic hospitality for a refreshing addition to your Derby Day menu.

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Ingredients

• 2 large bunches kale, finely chopped
• 2 cups shredded red cabbage
• 1 cup julienne carrots
• 1 cup cooked red quinoa – cooked
• ¾ cup dried cherries
• ½ cup sunflower seeds
• ½ cup pickled red onions

Cider Sorghum Vinaigrette

• ½ cup apple cider vinegar
• 3 tbsp sorghum
• 1 tsp Dijon
• ¾ cup olive oil
• Salt & pepper

Method

1.        Massage kale with 1 tbsp olive oil & ½ tsp salt for 2–3 minutes.

2.        Whisk vinaigrette to emulsify.

3.        Toss salad with all ingredients, saving some seeds for garnish, 30 minutes before serving.

4.        Finish with seeds on top.

V = Vegetarian 

V2 = Vegan 

AVG = Avoiding Gluten 

AVM = Avoiding Milk