Description
A vibrant and nutrient-packed Simple Kale Salad featuring massaged kale leaves tossed with a zesty homemade dressing, Parmesan cheese, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries. This quick and easy salad is perfect as a healthy side or light meal, ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 to 2 teaspoons honey
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Salad
- 2 bunches kale (washed, preferably Lacinato kale)
- Drizzle of olive oil
- Pinch of kosher salt
- 1/2 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup toasted sliced almonds
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined. Set aside to let flavors meld.
- Prep the kale: Remove the kale stems by squeezing the top of each stem and slowly moving your hand downwards, stripping the leafy part off. Finely chop the kale leaves once stems are removed.
- Massage the kale: Place the chopped kale in a large bowl. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over it and sprinkle with a pinch of kosher salt. Using clean fingers, gently massage the kale until it softens slightly and becomes more tender, about 1-2 minutes.
- Toss with dressing: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the massaged kale. Toss thoroughly to ensure all the leaves are coated evenly.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle the finely shredded Parmesan cheese, toasted sliced almonds, and dried cranberries over the salad. Toss once more gently to combine all ingredients.
- Serve: Serve the kale salad immediately as a fresh and flavorful starter or side dish.
Notes
- Massaging the kale helps to soften its texture, making it more palatable and easier to digest.
- Feel free to substitute Lacinato kale with curly kale if preferred.
- For added protein, consider topping the salad with grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- Adjust honey quantity in dressing to taste, for desired sweetness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Dress just before serving to maintain freshness.
