Kale Quinoa Lemon Dressing Salad (Printable format)

A nutrient-rich salad blending kale, quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, and a tangy lemon dressing.

# List of ingredients:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced (about 12.3 ounces)
02 - 1 bunch kale (about 5.3 ounces), stems removed and leaves chopped
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)

# How to make it:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss the diced sweet potato with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and tender.
02 - In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add rinsed quinoa, reduce heat, 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 with your hands for 2–3 minutes until softened and darkened.
04 - Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined.
05 - Add cooked quinoa, roasted sweet potato, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped parsley to the kale. Pour dressing over mixture and toss gently to combine evenly.
06 - Sprinkle pumpkin seeds, crumbled feta cheese (if using), and pomegranate seeds on top. Serve immediately or chill before serving.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Nutrient-rich ingredients make this salad both satisfying and healthy
  • Easy to prepare in under an hour, yet impressive enough for guests
02 -
  • This salad can be made ahead, but add toppings right before serving for best texture
  • For a vegan option, simply omit the feta cheese
03 -
  • Massage the kale well for the best texture and flavor
  • Double the recipe for meal prep; leftovers hold up beautifully for up to 2 days
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