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Fresh kale salad with broccoli, shredded carrots, red onion, sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, and cheese, tossed in a light lemon dressing with a wooden spoon.

Kale Salad

Ella
A fresh kale salad packed with crunchy vegetables, tangy lemon dressing, and balanced flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 334 kcal

Ingredients
  

Salad Base

  • 5 cups fresh kale, chopped stems removed
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil for massaging kale
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
  • ½ cup sliced almonds
  • ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled optional
  • ¼ cup shredded carrot
  • ¼ cup red onion, diced
  • ¼ cup sunflower seeds
  • ¼ cup dried cranberries

Lemon Dressing

  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice fresh
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • teaspoon black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Add olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to a jar. Shake well until smooth and combined.
  • Place chopped kale in a large bowl. Add olive oil and a pinch of salt, then massage the leaves for 1–3 minutes until softened and darker in color.
  • Add broccoli, almonds, cheese, carrot, red onion, sunflower seeds, and cranberries. Toss lightly to combine.
  • Pour one-third of the dressing over the salad. Toss until evenly coated. Add more dressing gradually as desired.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Let sit for a few minutes before serving for best flavor.

Notes

Massage the kale well to reduce bitterness and improve texture. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Add grilled chicken or salmon for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 334
  • Carbohydrates: 19g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Sodium: 315mg
  • Potassium: 744mg
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Vitamin A: 9985 IU
  • Vitamin C: 146.3mg
  • Calcium: 192mg
  • Iron: 2.7mg
Keyword easy kale recipe, healthy salad recipe, kale salad, lemon dressing salad, meal prep salad