Simple Kale Salad
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 to 2 teaspoons honey
- to tasteKosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 bunches kale
), washed (I prefer Lacinato kale
- Drizzle of olive oil
- Pinch of kosher salt
- 1/2 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup toasted sliced almonds
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
Directions
- 1
To make the dressing, in a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- 2
First, remove the kale stems. Squeeze the top of the kale stem and slowly move your hand down the kale stem. The leafy part of the kale will come right off as you go down. Use a sharp knife to finely chop the kale.
- 3
Place the kale in a large bowl. Drizzle the kale with just a little bit of olive oil, you don't need a ton because you are adding a dressing. Sprinkle with a little kosher salt and massage with your clean fingers until the kale softens a bit.
- 4
Drizzle the dressing over the kale and toss well. Add the Parmesan cheese, nuts, and dried fruit. Toss again and serve.
Simple Kale Salad
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About this Recipe
Craving a fresh, vibrant salad that's anything but boring? This Simple Kale Salad recipe delivers on flavor and texture, proving that hearty greens can be truly delicious and satisfying.
What makes this recipe truly shine is its thoughtful combination of ingredients and a perfectly balanced homemade dressing. The robustness of fresh kale provides a sturdy base, while the bright, zesty lemon balsamic dressing infuses every leaf with a tangy-sweet kick. This recipe expertly pairs savory Parmesan, crunchy toasted almonds, and sweet-tart dried cranberries for a truly dynamic eating experience.
Prepare for a salad that's invigorating and deeply satisfying, far beyond a typical side. You'll savor the substantial chew of the fresh kale, made tender by its dressing, perfectly balanced by the bright, zesty notes from fresh lemon and balsamic vinegar. Each forkful offers a delightful interplay of textures and tastes: the sharp, salty crunch of Parmesan cheese, the satisfying crispness of toasted sliced almonds, and the juicy, chewy sweetness of dried cranberries. This salad feels special, yet is surprisingly easy to pull together.
This Simple Kale Salad is incredibly versatile for customization. Feel free to swap the toasted sliced almonds for pecans or walnuts to change up the nutty flavor profile. If you're looking for extra protein, crumbled feta or goat cheese would be a delicious addition alongside or in place of Parmesan. For a less sweet dressing, simply reduce the amount of honey to your preference.
This vibrant salad makes an excellent refreshing main course for a light lunch, or serves beautifully as a substantial side dish alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a hearty soup.