Kale Quinoa Lemon Salad (Print)

A wholesome salad combining kale, quinoa, roasted sweet potato, and zesty lemon dressing for a fresh, satisfying dish.

# Ingredients:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced (approximately 12.3 oz)
02 - 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped (approximately 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
15 - 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 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 until golden and tender.
02 - Bring 2 cups water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Allow to cool slightly.
03 - Place chopped kale in a large bowl. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon olive oil and a pinch of salt. Massage leaves for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and darkened.
04 - 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.
05 - Add cooked quinoa, roasted sweet potato, red onion, and parsley to the kale. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
06 - Top salad with toasted pumpkin seeds, crumbled feta (if using), and pomegranate seeds. Serve immediately or chill for later use.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Loaded with wholesome veggies and grains for balanced nutrition
  • Easy to prep and perfect for vegetarian and gluten-free diets
02 -
  • For a vegan salad, simply omit feta or use plant-based cheese
  • Double-check labels for gluten-free assurance if sensitive
03 -
  • Massage the kale well to avoid bitterness and tough texture
  • Let salad sit for 15 minutes after dressing to boost flavor
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