Lemon Kale Salad with Garlic and Parmesan
This Lemon Kale Salad has become a crowd favorite, and it’s easy to see why!
In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a fresh, vibrant salad with crispy toasted nuts, rich Parmesan, and a tangy lemon-garlic dressing.
The best part? No massaging the kale! The dressing does all the work, making this salad bright, bold, and oh-so-delicious.
Perfect as a side for any meal, from pasta to grilled proteins, or as a refreshing lunch on its own.
Trust me, this will become your new go-to salad!
For Lemon Kale Salad
- Kale – The base of the salad, providing a hearty and nutrient-packed green.
- Nuts (Almonds, Hazelnuts, Brazil, or Macadamia) – Toasted to bring a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated to add a sharp, savory depth.
- Olive Oil – The dressing’s base, bringing richness and a smooth texture.
- Lemon Juice – Adds a zesty, refreshing flavor to brighten the salad.
- Garlic – Grated for a burst of flavor that enhances the dressing.
- Salt – Balances the flavors and enhances all the ingredients.
- Ground Black Pepper – To taste, adding a hint of spice and warmth.
For the Lemon-Garlic Dressing
- Olive Oil – Used to blend all the flavors together in a smooth, rich dressing.
- Lemon Juice – Provides a tangy and fresh note to the dressing.
- Garlic – Adds a savory and aromatic component to the dressing.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the overall flavor.
Lemon Kale Salad with Garlic and Parmesan
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup nuts (almonds, hazelnuts, Brazil nuts, or macadamia), coarsely chopped
- 1 large bunch of kale (6 cups, chopped)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1/2 large lemon)
- 1 small garlic clove, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Kale:
- Remove the stems from the kale and rinse the leaves in cold water.
- Use a salad spinner to dry the kale, then chop it into thin strips and place it in a large salad bowl.
- Toast the Nuts:
- In a skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped nuts, stirring frequently until fragrant.
- Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the freshly grated Parmesan and toasted nuts to the salad bowl with the kale.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, grated garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Toss the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the kale mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve:
- Enjoy immediately, or store for up to 36 hours without the salad becoming soggy.
Notes
- Storage: This salad can be kept in the fridge for up to 36 hours.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with pasta, grilled meats, or enjoy as a side for any meal.
Nutrition
Calories: 175 kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 266mg | Potassium: 330mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 360 IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 80mg | Iron: 2mg
- Do I need to massage the kale to make it tender?
No need for massaging here! Simply chop the kale into thin strips and toss it with the lemon-garlic dressing. The acidity of the lemon juice will naturally soften the kale without extra effort.
- Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
For the best flavor and texture, freshly grated Parmesan is recommended. Pre-grated cheese often doesn’t melt as well and can affect the overall taste. It’s worth taking a moment to grate it fresh!
- Can I make the salad ahead of time?
Yes! The kale holds up well even after being dressed. You can prepare the salad a few hours ahead or even the day before and store it in the fridge. It will remain fresh and crunchy without getting soggy.
- What if I don’t have certain nuts, like almonds or hazelnuts?
No worries! You can use any nuts you have on hand, such as walnuts, pecans, or cashews. Toast them lightly in a skillet to bring out their flavor before adding them to the salad.
- Can I add more ingredients to customize the salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite toppings like avocado, cranberries, or roasted chickpeas. The dressing is versatile, so feel free to get creative and make it your own!
