Fresh Kale Salad. Healthy and Easy Salad Ideas
This kale salad is a fresh, vibrant dish that’s perfect for those who love to cook their own healthy meals. Packed with nutritious ingredients like kale, avocado, and seeds, this salad offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The slight bitterness of the kale is balanced by the creamy avocado, while a tangy lemon dressing ties it all together. This salad is a versatile dish that works well as a light lunch, a side dish, or a quick dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 bunch of kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup roasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Prepare the Kale. Rinse the kale under cold water and pat it dry. Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
Massage the Kale. Place the chopped kale in a large bowl. Drizzle with half of the lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Massage the kale for about 2-3 minutes until it softens and turns a darker green.
Add the Ingredients. Add the diced avocado, roasted seeds, dried cranberries, and sliced red onion to the bowl with the kale.
Make the Dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Toss the Salad. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. If using, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Serve immediately or let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Recipe tips
Massaging the kale is essential to soften its texture and reduce its bitterness. Feel free to swap out the seeds or dried fruits for your favorites, like almonds or cherries. For a more filling salad, add grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
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