Palm Springs kale, date, almond and quinoa salad

Lunch today is a recreation of the kale, date, almond and quinoa salad I had when we were staying in Palm Springs at the Ace hotel. I had their kale, date, almond and quinoa salad every day for lunch when we were there. I never usually get the same thing twice, especially when we’re in a place for such a short time, but I couldn’t help myself. Over the days I scribbled notes of how I’d recreate it and on the last day, after a couple of cocktails gave me courage, I asked the chef what went into the salad and he shared the recipe.

As I’m writing this today, looking out onto our grey English garden, those days in Palm Springs feel a long way away. But thanks to the magic of food I can close my eyes and transport myself back to that poolside with each bite of this salad.

You’ll get plenty of protein from the quinoa and nuts but if you feel the need for cheese, you could add some salty Feta.