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Crowd-Pleasing Kale Quinoa Salad Recipe

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4 from 9 reviews

This Crowd-Pleasing Kale Quinoa Salad is a vibrant, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish featuring nutrient-rich kale and protein-packed quinoa. Tossed in a tangy and slightly sweet lemon maple dressing with crunchy raw almonds, it serves as a perfect healthy lunch or side dish that can be enjoyed immediately or saved for meal prep. Its versatility allows for customizable additions, making it a delightful choice for a refreshing and wholesome salad.

Ingredients

The Salad:

  • 4 cups cooked, cooled quinoa (made from 1 cup dry quinoa and 1 cup water)
  • 1 head of lacinato (dino) kale, stems removed and finely chopped (5-6 cups finely chopped)
  • ¾ cup raw sliced almonds

The Dressing:

  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (from 2 large, juicy lemons)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon fine salt
  • 2 large cloves fresh garlic, pressed

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, fine salt, and pressed garlic cloves until the mixture is well emulsified and smooth.
  2. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled cooked quinoa, finely chopped kale, and raw sliced almonds.
  3. Toss with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss everything together thoroughly to ensure the kale and quinoa are evenly coated.
  4. Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy the salad immediately at room temperature for the freshest flavor. Optionally, refrigerate for meal prep and freshen before serving by adding a splash of olive oil and a pinch of salt.

Notes

  • This salad holds up well in the refrigerator, making it perfect for meal prep and easy lunches.
  • To refresh leftovers, add a bit more olive oil and a pinch of salt before serving.
  • Optional add-ins include chopped dates or other dried fruits for a sweet-tart chewiness, as well as chopped apples, extra nuts, seeds, or vegetables.
  • For added protein and texture, serve with crispy chickpeas and hemp seeds.

Find it online: https://marthatasty.com/crowd-pleasing-kale-quinoa-salad-recipe/