Vibrant Kale Salad with Honey-Dijon Dressing

Vibrant Kale Salad with Honey-Dijon Dressing

Dive into a bowl of this vibrant kale salad, where each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors and textures. The earthy crunch of fresh kale, the creamy richness of ripe avocado, and the burst of sweetness from honey harmoniously blend together, creating a refreshing experience for your palate. Topped with the nutty richness of toasted almonds and the savory depth of Parmesan cheese, this salad is not only visually stunning but also a powerhouse of nutrients. Perfect as a light side or a satisfying meal when paired with grilled chicken or shrimp, this dish embodies the ideal balance of health and taste. Kale, a leafy green celebrated for its versatility and health benefits, has graced tables across cultures for centuries, making this salad a timeless addition to any dining experience.

Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • Kale (4 cups, chopped and stems removed)
  • Lemon juice (2 tablespoons)
  • Olive oil (3 tablespoons)
  • Honey (1 tablespoon)
  • Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon)
  • Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
  • Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon)
  • Avocado (1, diced)
  • Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved)
  • Red onion (1/4 cup, thinly sliced)
  • Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, grated)
  • Almonds (1/4 cup, sliced or slivered, toasted if desired)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
  2. Add the chopped kale to the bowl and, using your hands, massage the dressing into the kale leaves for about 3-5 minutes. This process softens the kale and enhances its flavor, making it more enjoyable to eat.
  3. Once the kale is well-coated and softened, gently fold in the diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, grated Parmesan cheese, and almonds.
  4. Toss the salad carefully to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed, making sure the avocado and cheese are well distributed throughout.
  5. Serve the salad immediately as a refreshing side dish or top it with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal. Enjoy!

Dietary Information

Servings: 4 • Dish Type: Salad • Prep Time: 15 minutes • Calories: 220 • Fat: 16g • Carbs: 15g • Protein: 5g • Sodium: 300mg • Sugar: 4g