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Lemon Parmesan Kale Salad

Lemon Parmesan Kale Salad
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A vibrant and nutritious Lemon Parmesan Kale Salad combining fresh kale, zesty lemon juice, and savory Parmesan cheese tossed in a garlicky olive oil dressing. This refreshing salad is easy to prepare, packed with vitamins and protein, and perfect as a light meal or side dish that energizes and delights.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Base

  • 4 cups fresh kale leaves, washed, stems removed, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, divided
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided

Dressing

  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Topping

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prep and Massage the Kale: Wash and dry the kale leaves thoroughly. Remove the thick stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Place the kale in a large mixing bowl and drizzle with 1 tablespoon lemon juice and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Massage the leaves gently with your hands for 2-3 minutes until they soften and turn vibrant green, reducing bitterness and making the kale easier to digest.
  2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning according to taste to achieve a bright, zesty flavor that complements the kale.
  3. Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the massaged kale leaves and toss thoroughly to evenly coat all the pieces, infusing each bite with lemony tang and garlic aroma.
  4. Add the Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the salad and toss gently one last time to distribute the savory, creamy flavor evenly throughout the salad.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: The Lemon Parmesan Kale Salad is ready to serve immediately. For a chilled option, refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld further before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh, bright green kale leaves without yellowing for best flavor and texture.
  • Massage kale thoroughly to soften leaves and reduce bitterness.
  • Taste and balance dressing ingredients to avoid overpowering lemon or garlic flavors.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for richer flavor and better melting.
  • Best enjoyed within 1-2 days to maintain crispness and freshness. Store dressing separately if prepping ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: Lemon kale salad, Parmesan salad, healthy kale recipe, gluten free salad, easy kale salad, energizing salad

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