Kale Salad with Quinoa and Cranberries
This robust autumn-inspired Kale Salad featuring Quinoa and Cranberries truly shines when you take the time to massage the kale. This technique helps to soften the fibrous leaves, resulting in a more tender texture and a milder taste, making the salad even more enjoyable.
Get the Calorie Master app
Download on the App Store for the best experience.
Ingredients
- 1 large garlic clove
- 1 small shallot
- Kosher salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 bunch lacinato kale
- ¼ cup sliced almonds
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons grated or shaved Parmesan cheese
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup
Instructions
- 1
In a spacious bowl, mix together all the components for the dressing and let it sit while you prepare the kale. (This resting period will help soften the shallots and meld the flavors beautifully).
- 2
Introduce the chopped kale to the bowl containing the dressing. Gently massage the kale by taking handfuls and rubbing the leaves between your fingers for about one to two minutes, until they become tender and take on a darker hue. (I understand that giving your salad a little TLC might seem odd, but trust me, it’s essential. DO NOT OMIT THIS STEP.) Set aside for a moment.
- 3
Toast the almonds. Place a small skillet over medium heat. (Refrain from adding any oil to the pan!) Pour the almonds into the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, shaking the pan frequently, until they turn golden brown and emit a lovely aroma. Quickly transfer them to a small bowl.
- 4
Incorporate the quinoa, along with half of the toasted almonds and half of the cranberries, into the kale and toss everything together until well mixed.
- 5
Serve your salad on a platter or individual plates, garnishing it with the remaining almonds and cranberries, and finish with a sprinkle of cheese.
Nutrition Information
Notes & Tips
- YOU DO YOU: This recipe is meant to be a road map for creating your perfect kale salad, so play with your favorite nuts, dried fruits, cheeses, and whole grains. You can also try curly kale, although it tastes slightly more grassy than lacinato.