How to Make Easy Kale Salad with Fresh Lemon Dressing
Making this salad is quick and easy, with just a few simple steps to ensure the best texture and flavor.
Step 1: Prepare the Kale
Wash the kale thoroughly and remove the tough stems. Chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl.
Step 2: Massage the Kale
Drizzle a little olive oil and a pinch of salt over the kale. Using your hands, gently massage the leaves for about 2-3 minutes until they become softer and darker in color. This step helps break down the tough fibers and enhances the taste.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined and smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Add the diced cucumber, red onion, and toasted pecans to the bowl of kale. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve fresh and enjoy!
How Long to Let Kale Sit Before Serving
Allowing kale to sit after massaging and dressing it helps the flavors develop and the texture to soften even more. Here are some general timing guidelines:
- Immediate Serving – If you’re short on time, you can enjoy the salad right away after massaging the kale and tossing it with the dressing.
- 10-15 Minutes – Letting the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes allows the kale to absorb the flavors and soften further.
- Up to 1 Hour – For the best taste and texture, let the salad rest for up to an hour before serving. This helps all the ingredients blend beautifully.
How to Store Leftover Kale Salad
This kale salad keeps well, making it a great option for meal prep. Here’s how to store it properly:
- Refrigerator – Store the leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The kale holds up well to the dressing without becoming soggy.
- Dressing Storage – If you plan to make this salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate and toss it with the salad just before serving to maintain freshness.
Tips for the Best Kale Salad
Here are some helpful tips to make sure your kale salad turns out delicious every time:
- Massage the Kale Well – Don’t skip this step, as it makes the kale tender and enhances its flavor.
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness to the dressing and enhances the overall taste.
- Toast the Pecans – Toasting the pecans brings out their natural nuttiness and adds a wonderful crunch.
- Adjust Sweetness – Add more or less honey or maple syrup in the dressing depending on your preference for sweetness.
- Try Different Add-ins – This salad is versatile. Add ingredients like avocado, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, or chickpeas for extra flavor and nutrition.
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