Kale Superfood Power Salad (Vegan!)
Kale Superfood Power Salad (Vegan!) is not just another salad. It’s a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish that serves as a delightful celebration of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a nourishing dinner, or a side dish for your next gathering, this salad brings together wholesome ingredients that are both satisfying and energizing. With kale as the star, each bite offers a crunch that’s complemented by creamy avocado, sweet roasted beets, and the satisfying protein punch from garbanzo beans.
Eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring, and this Kale Superfood Power Salad (Vegan!) proves just that. It’s colorful, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how easy it is to prepare!
Reasons to Love Kale Superfood Power Salad (Vegan!)
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, kale is a nutritional powerhouse. Combined with quinoa, beets, and avocado, this salad is brimming with health benefits.
- Protein-Rich: The addition of garbanzo beans and quinoa provides a hearty dose of plant-based protein, making this salad filling and satisfying.
- Vegan and Gluten-Free: This recipe is perfect for those following a vegan lifestyle or anyone looking to enjoy a gluten-free meal.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time needed, you can whip up this salad in no time—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or ingredients to make this salad your own.
What Goes In
- 1/2 cup quinoa: A complete protein that adds a nutty flavor and fluffy texture.
- 1 large bunch kale: The star of the show, packed with nutrients and a hearty crunch.
- 1 medium carrot: Adds sweetness and a pop of color, plus extra vitamins.
- 1 cup cooked beets: Earthy and sweet, these provide beautiful color and antioxidants.
- 1/4 cup red onion: For a bite of sharpness and a touch of sweetness.
- 15 oz. can garbanzo beans: A great source of protein and fiber, making the salad filling.
- 1 large ripe avocado: Creamy and rich, it adds healthy fats and balances the flavors.
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds: For crunch and additional nutrients.
- 3 Tbsp balsamic vinegar: Adds tanginess and depth of flavor.
- 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard: For a hint of spice and creaminess in the dressing.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: To infuse the dressing with aromatic flavor.
- 1/8 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors in the salad.
Equipment & Tools
- Large mixing bowl: For combining all the salad ingredients.
- Small bowl or jar: For whisking or shaking up the dressing.
- Pot for cooking quinoa: Essential for preparing the quinoa to fluffy perfection.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping vegetables and dicing the avocado.
- Can opener: For opening the garbanzo beans.
Kale Superfood Power Salad (Vegan!) Cooking Guide
Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
Rinse 1/2 cup of quinoa under cold water to remove its natural bitter coating. In a medium pot, combine the rinsed quinoa with 1 cup of water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Kale
While the quinoa is cooking, wash and dry the large bunch of kale. Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. In a large mixing bowl, massage the kale with a pinch of salt for about 2 minutes. This will soften the kale and make it more palatable.
Step 3: Chop the Vegetables
Peel and grate the medium carrot. Dice the cooked beets (if using whole beets) and chop the red onion finely. Add these vegetables to the bowl with the kale.
Step 4: Add the Beans
Rinse and drain the can of garbanzo beans. Add them to the bowl along with the cooled quinoa.
Step 5: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and 1/8 tsp of salt until well combined.
Step 6: Assemble the Salad
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything together until well coated. Gently fold in the diced avocado and sunflower seeds.
Step 7: Serve
Serve immediately or let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy your Kale Superfood Power Salad (Vegan!) as a main dish or a side!
Holiday & Seasonal Touches
- Fall: Add roasted pumpkin or apples for a seasonal twist.
- Winter: Incorporate pomegranate seeds for a festive touch.
- Spring: Top with fresh herbs like mint or cilantro for brightness.
- Summer: Add grilled corn or zucchini for a refreshing summer salad.
Testing Timeline
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (for quinoa)
- Assembly Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes to a delicious Kale Superfood Power Salad (Vegan!).
Make-Ahead & Storage
This Kale Superfood Power Salad (Vegan!) is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the salad ingredients in advance, keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat. Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the avocado may brown, so it’s best to add it fresh just before serving.
Handy Q&A
Can I use different greens instead of kale?
Absolutely! While kale is the star of this recipe, you can substitute it with spinach, arugula, or mixed greens if you prefer a milder flavor.
What can I use instead of garbanzo beans?
If you’re not a fan of garbanzo beans, you can use black beans, kidney beans, or even lentils for a different flavor and texture.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To make the salad more filling, consider adding cooked quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, or even some chopped nuts for extra protein and healthy fats.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep. Just keep the dressing separate and add it right before serving to keep the salad fresh.
One Pan, More Ideas
The Takeaway
The Kale Superfood Power Salad (Vegan!) is a delightful and nutritious option for anyone looking to indulge in a wholesome meal. With its vibrant colors and plethora of textures, it’s sure to be a hit at your table. Not only is it packed with nutrients, but it also showcases the beauty of plant-based eating. So, the next time you’re in need of a quick, healthy, and delicious meal, turn to this salad for a burst of flavor and energy. Enjoy every bite!
Kale Superfood Power Salad (Vegan!)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a medium pot, combine quinoa with 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy. Remove from heat and cool.
- Wash and dry kale. Remove tough stems and chop leaves. In a large bowl, massage kale with a pinch of salt for 2 minutes.
- Peel and grate carrot. Dice cooked beets and chop red onion. Add to kale bowl.
- Add rinsed garbanzo beans and cooled quinoa to the bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and salt until combined.
- Pour dressing over salad mixture. Toss to coat, then gently fold in diced avocado and sunflower seeds.
- Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to meld flavors.
Notes
- Store salad without avocado in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For meal prep, keep dressing separate until ready to serve.
- Add seasonal ingredients like roasted pumpkin or pomegranate for variations.
