Kale Salad with Quinoa
This Kale Salad with Quinoa is a vibrant, nutritious delight! Packed with protein and healthy fats, it's perfect for any occasion.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Salad tongs
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 4 oz. kale a nutrient-dense green that serves as the base of the salad
- 1 medium semi-sweet apple diced
- 1 cup cooked quinoa a filling source of protein and fiber
- ½ cup toasted walnuts provides healthy fats and a satisfying crunch
- ½ cup hemp hearts packed with protein, omega-3s, and a nutty flavor
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup olive oil forms the base of the dressing
- 2 tbsp. lemon juice brightens up the salad
- 1 tbsp. maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness
- 1 tsp. mustard gives a subtle kick
- 1 medium garlic clove minced
- ½ tsp. sea salt balances the flavors
- ½ tsp. pepper adds a hint of heat
Instructions
Build Kale Salad with Quinoa Step by Step
- Begin by rinsing ½ cup of uncooked quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. Then, cook it according to package instructions, which typically involves boiling it in double the amount of water until fluffy. Once cooked, let it cool.
- While your quinoa is cooking, wash the kale thoroughly. Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Place the kale in a large mixing bowl.
- Dice the medium semi-sweet apple into small cubes. Add it to the bowl with the kale, ensuring to mix it in well.
- Once the quinoa has cooled, add it to the kale and apple mixture. This will add a hearty component to your salad.
- Next, add the ½ cup of toasted walnuts and ½ cup of hemp hearts to the mixture. Both ingredients provide a delightful crunch and boost the nutritional value.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, maple syrup, mustard, minced garlic, sea salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust any seasoning if necessary.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss everything together until well coated. Be gentle to avoid bruising the kale leaves.
- Your Kale Salad with Quinoa is now ready to be served! Enjoy it immediately or let it sit for a bit to allow the flavors to meld together.
Notes
- For added protein, consider including chickpeas or grilled chicken.
- Feel free to substitute the apple with any seasonal fruit you prefer.
- Make sure to massage the kale for a few minutes to soften it, enhancing the texture.
- This salad can be made ahead of time; just keep the dressing separate until serving.