Maybe you’re dreaming of spring, but where I am we just got winter back. So, here’s a last 2018 winter salad for everyone.
Yes, there’s kale–of course–with just enough quinoa to hardy it up. And citrus and dates and coconut.
Are you ready for a simple salad that will get you humming–whether it’s the middle of your workday or a late-afternoon snack? Make it for your next office gathering or potluck.
Or turn it into dinner with a side of your favorite protein.
There’s nothing tricky here–just the reminder to massage that kale with the lemon juice and salt to soften its fibery nature.
You can also start with lacinato kale, which has a less curly and more tender leaf.
This salad is savory and sweet, refreshing and sustaining. Just what we need to get ready for all the gardening, bicycling, trail running and general outdoorsiness of springtime.
This is for you!
Kale Quinoa Salad with Citrus & Dates
A quintessential winter salad, this kale quinoa combination makes use of the season’s most available ingredients–including limes, Cara Cara oranges, dates and shaved coconut. This makes a great lunch or light dinner, or bring it to your next potluck.
- 1 bunch kale, washed and stemmed (about 5 cups) (reserve stems for stir fry)
- 1 navel orange, cut in half
- 1 lime, cut in half
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 dates, pitted and chopped
- 1/4 cup toasted flake coconut (unsweetend)
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Tear the kale into bite-sized pieces into a large mixing bowl. Squeeze one half of the orange and one half of the lime over it and sprinkle with the salt. Use your fingers to toss the kale with the citrus juices and salt while rubbing it between your fingers.
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Add the quinoa and toss to distribute it into the kale. Add the oil and pepper and toss thoroughly. Taste for seasoning and add more of the orange juice, lime juice and salt to suit your taste. It should be a balance of sweet and sour.
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Add the dates and coconut and toss once more before serving.
The post A Last Breath of Winter Kale Quinoa Salad with Citrus and Dates appeared first on Lynne Curry.