Description
This vibrant Lemon Kale Salad combines hearty kale with a zesty lemon dressing, sweet maple syrup, and savory Dijon mustard for a perfectly balanced flavor. Enhanced with protein-packed chickpeas, creamy avocado, crunchy walnuts, and tangy Parmesan cheese, this salad is not only nutritious but also quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal healthy meal or side dish in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Salad Base
- 1/2 pound Kale (about 8 cups chopped)
- 1 (15-ounce can) Chickpeas (drained) or 1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas
- 1/2 large Avocado (pitted and diced)
- 1/4 cup Walnuts (chopped)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese
Dressing
- 1 Lemon (zested and juiced, or 1/4 cup lemon juice)
- 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup (or other liquid sweetener)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
- 1 clove Garlic (grated on microplane)
- 1/8 teaspoon Salt (or more as needed)
- 1 pinch Black Pepper
- 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Instructions
- Prepare the kale. Rinse the kale leaves thoroughly, then pat dry using paper towels or a salad spinner. Chop or tear the kale into bite-sized pieces, removing thick stems if desired. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use to keep fresh.
- Make the dressing. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, grated garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify and create a smooth, creamy dressing. Cover and refrigerate if not using immediately. Alternatively, put all dressing ingredients into a covered mason jar and shake vigorously to combine.
- Massage the kale with dressing. Pour the prepared dressing over the chopped kale. Using your hands, firmly massage the dressing into the kale leaves for a few minutes until they soften and are thoroughly coated. This step tenderizes the kale and improves texture. You may choose to massage with just a pinch of salt instead if preferred.
- Add mix-ins and serve. Add the drained chickpeas, diced avocado, chopped walnuts, and Parmesan cheese to the massaged kale. Toss to combine all ingredients evenly. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.
Notes
- Massaging the kale is essential to soften its tough fibers and reduce bitterness.
- You can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave syrup depending on preference.
- If you prefer a vegan option, omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
- Use kale stems in soups or smoothies to minimize waste.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days but are best enjoyed fresh.
