Kale Quinoa Salad is a nutrient-packed side dish perfect for any occasion. This salad delivers protein, fiber, and essential vitamins in every bite. I love how it keeps me full and energized all day.
Contents
Kale quinoa salad recipe
Kale Quinoa Salad is a “superfood salad” with its high nutrient density. The dish combines two superfoods—kale and quinoa—along with various vegetables, nuts, and a flavorful dressing. It provides antioxidants, fiber, protein, and healthy fats while being low in calories.
- Kale is rich in vitamins A, C, K, and antioxidants
- Quinoa provides essential amino acids and fiber.
The salad is suitable for various diets, including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and heart-healthy meal plans. It’s perfect for casual lunches, meal prep, potlucks, or as a side dish at dinner parties.
Kale Quinoa Salad pairs well with proteins like baked salmon, grilled chicken, pork tenderloin, crispy breaded chicken, and firecracker tofu. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables, grain bowls, or soups like butternut squash soup.
For dressings, you can try mustard dressing, avocado dressing, or lemon garlic dressing to enhance its flavors. Drink options include fresh juices, green smoothies, herbal teas, kombucha, or Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio.
Here is how to make the Kale Quinoa Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing:
Kale and Quinoa Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing
Nutrition
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 4 cups chopped kale stems removed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cucumber diced
- 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 2-3 tbsp Lemon tahini dressing
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa under cold water.
- In a saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until quinoa is cooked and water is absorbed. Let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine chopped kale, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and fresh parsley.
- Add the cooled quinoa to the bowl of vegetables and pour the Lemon-Tahini Dressing over the salad.
- Toss everything together until well combined, ensuring the dressing coats the ingredients evenly.
- Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
SIMILAR RECIPES
Variations
Here are some popular variations of this healthy Kale Quinoa Salad:
- Dressing Alternatives
- Use a creamy avocado-based dressing for richness
- Try a tangy lemon-tahini dressing for a Middle Eastern twist
- Opt for a spicy chipotle dressing for a Mexican-inspired flavor
- Warm Kale Quinoa Salad is a comforting option for colder days
- Sauté some kale in olive oil and mix it with warm quinoa
- Toss in carrots, red bell peppers, and sunflower seeds
- Drizzle lemon tahini dressing on top.
- Baby Versions swap regular kale for baby kale for a less bitter flavor.
- Protein Additions
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein
- Incorporate chickpeas or black beans for a vegetarian protein boost
- Mix in crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese for added flavor and protein
- Fruit and Vegetable Variations
- Include dried fruits like cranberries, currants, or chopped apricots for sweetness
- Add fresh fruits such as diced apples, pears, or pomegranate seeds
- Incorporate roasted vegetables like butternut squash or sweet potatoes
- Mix in raw vegetables like diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes
- Nut and Seed Options
- Top with toasted pine nuts, sliced almonds, or chopped walnuts
- Sprinkle with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for extra crunch
- Global Influences
- Add Mediterranean flavors with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano
- Create an Asian-inspired version with edamame, mandarin oranges, and a sesame-ginger dressing
- Make a Mexican-style salad with black beans, corn, and a cumin-lime dressing
- Grain Substitutions
- Replace quinoa with other grains like farro, bulgur, or brown rice
- Use a mix of quinoa and other grains for varied texture