Kale Quinoa Lemon Salad (Print View)

Tender kale and quinoa combined with roasted sweet potatoes and a zesty lemon dressing create a vibrant dish.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced (about 12.3 oz)
02 - 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped (about 5.3 oz)
03 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
04 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
05 - 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds (optional, for garnish)

→ Grains

06 - 1 cup quinoa, rinsed

→ Dressing

07 - 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
08 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
09 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest
10 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
11 - 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
12 - 1 small garlic clove, minced
13 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Toppings

14 - 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
15 - 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Toss diced sweet potato with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the baking sheet and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender.
03 - Bring 2 cups water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Let cool slightly.
04 - Place chopped kale in a large bowl. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon olive oil and a pinch of salt. Massage kale with your hands for 2 to 3 minutes until leaves soften and darken.
05 - In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
06 - Add cooked quinoa, roasted sweet potato, red onion, and parsley to the kale. Pour dressing over and toss gently to combine.
07 - Top salad with toasted pumpkin seeds, crumbled feta cheese if using, and pomegranate seeds. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Colorful, nutrient-rich salad featuring plant-based ingredients
  • Quick to make, ideal for vegetarian or gluten-free diets
02 -
  • The salad is gluten-free and vegetarian as written
  • Pomegranate seeds are optional but provide a sweet-tart pop
03 -
  • Massage the kale well to soften its texture
  • Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein
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