Hearty Kale Delight

πŸ•’ Prep: 15 min
πŸ”₯ Cook:
🍽 Serves: 4
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Welcome to a refreshing twist on a classic salad β€” the Hearty Kale Delight. This recipe is perfect for those who love a satisfying, nutritious meal that’s quick to put together and full of vibrant flavors.

Ingredients for Hearty Kale Delight

Kale is the star of this dish, offering a hearty base that's packed with vitamins and fiber. Toasted almonds add a delightful crunch, while raisins bring a touch of natural sweetness. Cherry tomatoes offer a burst of juicy freshness, and red onion contributes a sharp bite that complements the other flavors. Parmesan cheese rounds everything off with a salty, savory finish. The olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard dressing ties it all together with a tangy, zesty kick.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use baby kale if you prefer a milder flavor and softer texture.
  • Toast your almonds in a dry skillet for a few minutes to enhance their nutty flavor.
  • If you’re not a fan of raw red onions, soak them in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow their sharpness.

Serving Suggestions

This salad makes a great side dish for grilled chicken or fish. It also works wonderfully as a light lunch on its own or tossed with some cooked quinoa for added protein.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, the salad can be made a day in advance, but add the Parmesan just before serving for the best texture.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
Try crumbled feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
Can I use a different type of nut?
Absolutely! Walnuts or pecans would be great substitutes.

Hearty Kale Delight Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, give your kale a good rinse under cold water to remove any grit. Pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Once dry, chop it finely β€” this helps it absorb the flavors better and makes it easier to chew.

In a large bowl, sprinkle a pinch of salt over the chopped kale. Now comes the fun part: massage the kale with your hands. This step might seem strange, but it’s crucial. Massaging the kale for a few minutes will soften it and make it less bitter.

Next, toss in the toasted almonds, raisins, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. These ingredients will add layers of flavor and texture that make each bite interesting.

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a bit of salt and pepper. This is your dressing. Pour it over the salad and use tongs or your hands to toss everything until it’s well coated.

Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving. This last touch adds a wonderful depth of flavor that really brings the salad together.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect balance of crunch and sweetness.
  • Loaded with nutrients from fresh ingredients.
  • Quick to prepare β€” ready in under 20 minutes.
  • Great for meal prep and stays fresh in the fridge.

Ingredients

1 bunch kale, finely chopped
1/4 cup toasted almonds, sliced
1/4 cup raisins
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Rinse the kale thoroughly and pat dry.
2. In a large bowl, massage the chopped kale with a pinch of salt until it becomes tender.
3. Add sliced almonds, raisins, cherry tomatoes, and red onion to the kale.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until well coated.
6. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

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