Simple Kale Salad
This simple kale salad is the best! Made with tender massaged kale, Parmesan, toasted almonds, and cranberries, it’s tossed in a zesty lemon balsamic dressing for a fresh, flavorful side or light lunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad / Side Dish
- Method: Tossed / No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
→ For the Dressing
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 to 2 teaspoons honey (to taste)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ For the Salad
2 bunches kale, washed (preferably Lacinato kale)
Drizzle of olive oil
Pinch of kosher salt
1/2 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup toasted sliced almonds (or substitute pine nuts or pepitas)
1/3 cup dried cranberries (or substitute golden raisins or dried currants)
Instructions
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Prepare the Kale: Remove stems by sliding your hand down the kale stalk. Finely chop the kale leaves with a sharp knife.
Massage the Kale: Place chopped kale in a large salad bowl. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt. Massage with clean hands for 1–2 minutes until the leaves are darker and tender.
Assemble the Salad: Pour the dressing over the kale and toss to coat. Add Parmesan cheese, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries. Toss again and serve immediately.
Notes
Kale can be massaged and dressed up to 1 day in advance—just add cheese, nuts, and fruit before serving.
For a dairy-free version, omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
Great with grilled chicken or salmon for a protein-packed meal.
Find it online: https://elladishes.com/simple-kale-salad/
