Kale Quinoa Lemon Salad (Printable)

Nutritious kale and quinoa combo with roasted sweet potato and a bright lemon dressing.

# Ingredient List:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced (about 12.3 oz)
02 - 1 bunch kale (about 5.3 oz), 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
15 - 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Toss diced sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread evenly on the baking sheet and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and golden brown.
03 - In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups water to a boil. Add rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Allow to cool slightly.
04 - Place chopped kale in a large bowl. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon olive oil and a pinch of salt. Massage the kale with your hands for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and darkened.
05 - In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
06 - Add cooked quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, sliced red onion, and chopped parsley to the kale. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to combine.
07 - Sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds, crumbled feta (if using), and pomegranate seeds on top. Serve immediately or refrigerate and add toppings before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Packed with wholesome, nutrient-rich ingredients
  • Easy to prepare and customizable for different diets
02 -
  • This salad is naturally gluten-free and nut-free as written
  • You can make it ahead, but add toppings just before serving for best texture
03 -
  • Massage the kale well for the best texture and flavor
  • Swap sweet potato for butternut squash or carrots for a seasonal twist
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