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Lemon Parmesan Kale Salad Recipe

Lemon Parmesan Kale Salad Recipe
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★★★★★

5.3 from 7 reviews

A vibrant and refreshing Lemon Parmesan Kale Salad featuring tenderized kale massage-dressed with a zesty lemon and garlic olive oil dressing, topped with crispy croutons and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This easy-to-make salad is perfect as a light lunch or a healthy side for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad

  • 4 cups curly kale, washed, dried, and chopped

Dressing

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon fresh minced garlic
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste

Toppings

  • 1/2 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Kale: If using a bunch of curly kale, thoroughly wash and dry the leaves, then remove the leaves from the tough stems. Finely chop the kale leaves and place them in a medium-large bowl.
  2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  3. Massage the Kale: Drizzle about 1/2 teaspoon of the dressing over the kale leaves. Using your hands, massage the dressing into the kale, continuing until the leaves darken in color and soften to a tender, silky texture.
  4. Toss the Salad: Pour the remaining dressing over the massaged kale and toss thoroughly to coat all leaves evenly.
  5. Add Parmesan Cheese: Finely grate the Parmesan cheese with a box grater, then roughly chop it into smaller bits to create a sprinkle-like texture. Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the salad for a burst of cheesy flavor with every bite.
  6. Prepare Croutons: Place the croutons in a plastic bag or between two paper towels. Using the bottle of olive oil, gently crush the croutons into small, panko-sized pieces. Sprinkle these crispy crouton crumbs over the salad for a delightful crunchy topping.
  7. Serve: Enjoy the salad immediately to keep the topping crisp and to fully appreciate the fresh lemon and Parmesan-kissed kale flavors.

Notes

  • Massaging the kale is essential to tenderize the leaves and reduce bitterness.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
  • For gluten-free options, substitute croutons with toasted nuts or seeds.
  • Prepare the salad just before serving to keep croutons crispy.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more lemon juice or salt if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: Lemon Parmesan Kale Salad, kale salad recipe, healthy kale salad, easy salad, vegetarian salad, lemon dressing, Parmesan cheese salad

Find it online: https://thefoodrecipe.com/lemon-parmesan-kale-salad-recipe/