Description
A fresh and tangy Lemony Parmesan Kale Salad featuring tender massaged kale, crunchy croutons, and a zesty lemon-garlic dressing topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. A perfect healthy side dish or light lunch option that is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 2 bunches curly kale
- 1 cup croutons
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Dressing
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the kale: Remove and discard the stems from the kale, then wash the leaves thoroughly with water. Place the kale leaves in a large bowl.
- Massage the kale: Sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of sea salt over the kale. Using your hands, massage the salt into the kale leaves until they soften, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
- Add croutons: Chop or crush the croutons finely and add them to the bowl with the kale.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced or crushed garlic, and black pepper. Mix until fully combined.
- Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the kale and croutons. Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, then toss everything together thoroughly to combine all the flavors.
- Serve or store: Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Notes
- Massaging the kale is crucial as it softens the tough leaves and reduces bitterness.
- You can substitute croutons with toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch.
- If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a small amount of honey or maple syrup.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Grate the Parmesan cheese fresh for optimal taste and texture.
- This salad is best eaten within 3 days to maintain freshness.
- For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
