Kale Quinoa Lemon Salad (Printable)

Tender kale and fluffy quinoa combine with roasted sweet potatoes and lemon dressing for a wholesome meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced (approximately 12 oz)
02 - 1 bunch kale (approximately 5.3 oz), stems removed and leaves chopped
03 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
04 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
05 - 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds (optional, for garnish)

→ Grains

06 - 1 cup quinoa, rinsed

→ Dressing

07 - 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
08 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
09 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest
10 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
11 - 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
12 - 1 small garlic clove, minced
13 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Toppings

14 - 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
15 - 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Toss diced sweet potato with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread evenly on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender.
03 - While the sweet potato roasts, bring 2 cups water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is fully absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork; allow to cool slightly.
04 - Place chopped kale in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon olive oil and a pinch of salt. Massage leaves with hands for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and darkened.
05 - In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
06 - Add cooked quinoa, roasted sweet potato, sliced red onion, and chopped parsley to the kale. Pour dressing over and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
07 - Sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds, crumbled feta (if using), and pomegranate seeds on top. Serve immediately or chill for later use.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Nutrient-dense and full of flavor
  • Easy to customize: vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options
02 -
  • Omit feta or use plant-based cheese for a vegan version
  • Double-check quinoa and dressing ingredients for gluten-free assurance
03 -
  • Massage the kale with olive oil to make it tender and less bitter
  • Roast the sweet potato until edges are golden for extra flavor
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