Description
Easy Kale Quinoa Salad with Lemon Dressing is a vibrant and nutritious dish combining fresh kale, fluffy quinoa, and a zesty lemon dressing (natural). Packed with vitamins, fiber, and plant protein, this quick salad offers bright flavors and satisfying textures, perfect for busy days or anytime you need a refreshing, healthy meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh kale, stems removed and chopped finely
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon Dressing (natural)
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (natural)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic (natural), minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of natural gelling agent (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the quinoa: Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. Cook it in 2 cups of water until tender and fluffy, about 15 minutes. Let it cool slightly before mixing with the salad.
- Massage the kale: Remove kale leaves from the stems and chop finely. Place in a large bowl and gently massage with a pinch of salt for 3-5 minutes until softened and deep green, making it tender and easier to enjoy.
- Make the lemon dressing (natural): In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice (natural), 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1 clove of minced garlic (natural), salt, and pepper to taste. Add a pinch of natural gelling agent if you want a thicker consistency to help the dressing stick.
- Combine all ingredients: Add the cooled quinoa, halved cherry tomatoes, sunflower seeds, and chopped parsley to the massaged kale. Pour the lemon dressing (natural) over everything and toss gently but thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Adjust and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving to enjoy the full depth of brightness and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice (natural) and fresh kale for the best flavors and texture.
- Massage kale thoroughly to soften toughness and improve bite.
- Cool quinoa fully before mixing to prevent wilting the kale.
- Toast seeds lightly to enhance crunch and flavor.
- This salad tastes better after resting for a few hours; great for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Healthy Contemporary
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1.7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: kale quinoa salad, lemon dressing, healthy salad, gluten free, plant protein, quick salad
