Lacinato Kale Salad
Try this lacinato kale salad recipe.
Try this lacinato kale salad recipe.
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2-3 cloves garlic minced
- pinch of freshly ground pepper
- pinch of red pepper flakes to taste
- 1-2 bunches lacinato/dinosaur kale de-stemmed and thinly sliced
- pinch of fine or coarse sea salt - i adore this ce as it's unrefined and chock-full of minerals
- 2/3 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- Carbohydrate 7.74100416920641 g
- Cholesterol 38.4 mg
- Fat 55.0813334155014 g
- Fiber 0.274500004208086 g
- Protein 20.4527750001118 g
- Saturated Fat 14.8562400113458 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (162g)
- Sodium 906.029583335271 mg
- Sugar 7.46650416499832 g
- Trans Fat 1.40340666889178 g
- Calories 597 calories
Step-by-step
- Wash, de-stem and thinly slice your kale.
- Toss the sliced kale into a large salad bowl.
- In a small bowl or glass measuring cup whisk together 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 2-3 cloves minced garlic, a pinch of sea salt, a pinch of freshly ground black pepper and a pinch (or more to taste) of red pepper flakes.
- Pour the dressing over the kale and massage it well so that all the kale absorbs the dressing.
- After your kale is massaged, add the ⅔ cups of parmesan cheese and then quickly massage the salad again.
- Let the kale rest for at least 5 minutes to an hour.
- Store leftover salad in the refrigerator. This salad keeps well for 2-3 days.
My Simple, Yet Satisfying Lacinato Kale Salad
As a busy working mom, I’m always on the lookout for quick, healthy, and delicious meals that don’t require a culinary degree to prepare. This Lacinato kale salad is my go-to recipe when I need something nutritious and satisfying, but don't have a lot of time. I discovered this recipe a few years back, and it's become a staple in my weekly meal rotation. The best part? It's surprisingly versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
The secret to this salad’s success lies in the massaging process. It sounds strange, I know, but truly massaging the kale with the dressing helps break down the tough leaves, making them tender and allowing them to fully absorb the flavors. Don't be shy; really get your hands in there! The result is a kale salad that’s far from dry and bitter—instead, it's incredibly flavorful and surprisingly addictive. I've experimented with variations over the years, sometimes adding roasted chickpeas for extra protein, or toasted nuts for a satisfying crunch. Occasionally, I'll swap the parmesan for a different cheese, or even leave it out entirely for a vegan option.
Beyond its ease of preparation and delicious taste, this salad boasts numerous health benefits. Kale is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a nutritional powerhouse. The olive oil contributes healthy fats, while the lemon juice adds a zingy brightness and a boost of vitamin C. And let's not forget the garlic, which adds a pungent flavor and contributes to its overall health benefits. This salad is perfect as a light lunch, a side dish for a barbecue, or even a complete meal on its own. It's so satisfying that I often find myself reaching for seconds. The best part? It gets even better the longer it sits. Preparing it the night before allows the flavors to fully meld, creating an even more delicious experience.
Tips and Tricks for Kale Salad Success:
Choosing the Right Kale: When purchasing lacinato kale, select leaves that feel soft and pliable, similar to regular lettuce. Avoid tough, paper-like leaves, as these won't break down properly and won’t absorb the dressing as effectively.
Massaging the Kale: This is the most crucial step! Don't just toss the kale with the dressing; really massage it with your hands to break down the leaves and allow them to fully absorb the dressing's flavor.
Adjusting the Dressing: Feel free to adjust the dressing to your liking. If you prefer a tangier salad, add more lemon juice. If you want it richer, add a bit more olive oil. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your signature dressing.
Adding Extra Ingredients: This recipe is a blank canvas! Add other ingredients to boost the flavor and texture. Roasted vegetables, nuts, seeds, dried cranberries, or grilled chicken can all be delicious additions.
Making it Ahead: This salad is even better the next day! Make it ahead of time and let the flavors meld overnight in the refrigerator. It will keep for 2-3 days.
This Lacinato kale salad recipe is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the beauty of simple cooking and the power of fresh, wholesome ingredients. It's a recipe I’ve perfected over time, and I’m delighted to share it with you. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
