Cherry Creek Grill is one of my favorite restaurants in Denver. I make a point of eating there whenever I’m in town. I always order the smoked salmon appetizer—probably the best smoked salmon I’ve ever had—and the Macho Salad, minus the chicken, since I eat a vegetarian diet with an occasional serving of fish.

What is the Macho Salad?

The Macho Salad is a tasty and nutritious mix of ingredients. It’s got everything I love: sweet dates, creamy goat cheese, corn, juicy tomatoes, red onions, buttery avocados, pistachios, and the most incredible cornbread croutons. For more protein, you could also add some grilled chicken or tofu.

The Recipe: My Take on the Macho Salad

Since I’m not in Colorado as often as I used to be, I created my version of this salad using ingredients I can find at my local Mercado and the organic farmer’s market in Portugal. It’s my take on the Macho Salad, and I love how it turned out.

The Cornbread Croutons: The Star of the Show

The croutons are everything in this salad, adding an unexpected texture and flavor. I made mine from a day-old batch of my Southern Honey Cornbread, and they turned out amazing. You can use a mix or store-bought cornbread (Whole Foods has delicious cornbread). I’ve tried baking and alternatively browning them in a skillet, and either method works perfectly. They add a sweet, crunchy contrast that brings the whole dish together.

Choosing the Right Greens

You could use just about any lettuce for this salad, but I prefer mixed field greens. If you have some spicy arugula or radicchio to toss in, that’s even better. Arugula and radicchio’s peppery bite pairs beautifully with the sweet corn and dates, making each mouthful delectable.

The Nutritional Goodies of the Macho Salad Ingredients

This vibrant Macho Salad is packed with nutrient-rich ingredients that deliver a variety of health benefits:

Mixed Lettuce: A low-calorie base packed with vitamins A, C, and K, promoting healthy skin and strong bones.
Dates: Naturally sweet and rich in fiber, they support digestion and provide a quick energy boost.
Cherry or Pear Tomatoes: Loaded with lycopene, an antioxidant that supports heart health and reduces inflammation.
Red Onion: Offers compounds that improve heart health and have anti-inflammatory effects.
Corn: Provides fiber, antioxidants, and B vitamins to support digestion and eye health.
Avocado: High in healthy fats, potassium, and fiber, which support heart health and maintain steady energy levels.
Goat Cheese: Adds creaminess while supplying calcium and protein, making it an excellent option for stronger bones and muscles.
Pistachios: Pistachios are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, protein, fiber, vitamin E, and lutein.
Cornbread Croutons: Adds whole grains for additional fiber.

Macho Salad Vinaigrette

Prep Time 5

Servings

Ingredients

1/2 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider or sherry vinegar
1 ½ tablespoons grain or country-style mustard
1 tablespoon honey
1 clove garlic minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

Add all of the ingredients to a bowl or jar.
Whisk or shake until fully emulsified.

Quick Cornbread Croutons

Batch

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 7

Servings Batch

Ingredients

2 cups day-old cornbread cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Instructions

Option 1: Baking
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Gently toss the cornbread cubes with olive oil or melted butter.
Arrange the cubes in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Option 2: Sautéing
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter.
Add the cornbread cubes to the skillet, spreading them out evenly.
Sauté the cubes for 6–8 minutes, tossing occasionally, until they are golden and crisp on all sides.
Remove from the skillet and let cool before adding to your salad or dish.