Organic Baby Kale, with its tender texture and mildly earthy flavor, is a nutritional powerhouse that deserves a starring role in your kitchen. Our Warm Baby Kale and Quinoa Salad is a testament to this green’s versatility, combining it with the nutty richness of quinoa and a host of complementary ingredients for a dish that’s as nourishing as it is satisfying. This warm salad is perfect as a hearty side or a light main course, brimming with flavor and healthful benefits.
Ingredients:
Organic Baby Kale https://greenelly.com/product/olivias-organic-baby-kale-5-oz/ (5 cups)
Cooked Quinoa (2 cups)
Cherry Tomatoes (1 cup, halved)
Feta Cheese (1/2 cup, crumbled)
Walnuts (1/3 cup, chopped)
Olive Oil (1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons)
Lemon Juice (2 tablespoons, fresh)
Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
Red Chili Flakes (1/4 teaspoon)
Salt (to taste)
Black Pepper (to taste)
Steps to Prepare:
Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, combine 1/4 cup olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, red chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well emulsified. Set aside.
Warm the Kale: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the baby kale and cook for 2-3 minutes until it just begins to wilt, retaining its vibrant green color.
Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, gently mix the wilted baby kale with the cooked quinoa, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped walnuts.
Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the warm salad, tossing gently to ensure all ingredients are well-coated.
Serve: Transfer the salad to serving dishes and top with crumbled feta cheese. This salad can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Optional Additions: For extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas. For a touch of sweetness, dried cranberries or diced apple pieces would make excellent additions.
The Warm Baby Kale and Quinoa Salad is a fulfilling, nutrient-rich dish that celebrates the subtle flavor and extensive health benefits of baby kale. The addition of quinoa not only provides a protein boost but also introduces a delightful texture contrast. Meanwhile, the acidity of the lemon vinaigrette and the heat from the chili flakes enliven the palate, making this warm salad a culinary delight. Perfect for health-conscious individuals or anyone in search of a tasty, nourishing meal, this salad is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
