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Homemade Mixed Grain Kale Citrus Salad photo

Mixed Grain Kale Citrus Salad

This Mixed Grain Kale Citrus Salad is a vibrant, nutritious delight! Packed with grains, fresh greens, and a zesty dressing, it's perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Medium Saucepan
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Chopping board and knife

Ingredients
  

For the Salad:

  • 1 cup mixed grains (1/4 cup each of quinoa, farro, millet, whole wheat bulgur)
  • 2 to 2 1/4 cups water
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chopped fresh kale
  • 2 large scallions finely chopped
  • 1/3 cup chopped fresh mint
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/3 cup cranberries
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/3 cup pomegranate arils
  • 1/4 cup clementine juice
  • 1/2 tablespoon zest of 1 large clementine (about)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 tablespoon orange marmalade
  • 1 teaspoon mustard
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1 pinch black pepper
  • 1/4 cup olive oil

Instructions
 

Instructions:

  • Start by rinsing your mixed grains under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of mixed grains with 2 to 2 1/4 cups of water and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let the grains simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and the water is absorbed. Once cooked, fluff the grains with a fork and set aside to cool.
  • While the grains are cooling, chop your fresh kale into bite-sized pieces, and finely chop the scallions, mint, and parsley. In a large mixing bowl, combine the kale, scallions, mint, and parsley together.
  • Next, toss in the cranberries, chopped pecans, and pomegranate arils into the bowl with the greens and herbs. These ingredients will add a delightful crunch and a burst of sweetness to the salad.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the clementine juice, clementine zest, lemon juice, orange marmalade, mustard, salt, black pepper, and olive oil until well combined. This dressing is the essence of the salad, bringing all the flavors together.
  • Once the grains are cool, add them to the bowl with the greens and herbs. Drizzle the dressing over the top and gently toss everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Your Mixed Grain Kale Citrus Salad is ready to be served! This dish can be enjoyed immediately or can be stored in the refrigerator for later. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making it a perfect make-ahead option for busy weekdays or meal prep.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free version, substitute farro with cooked brown rice or additional quinoa.
  • To lower the sugar content, reduce the amount of cranberries or use unsweetened dried fruit.
  • Make it vegan by ensuring your orange marmalade is free from animal products.
Keyword Gluten-Free, Healthy, Vegan