This refreshing and tangy kale salad is packed with antioxidants, fiber, and heart-healthy fats. The lemon juice naturally softens the kale, while the tahini dressing brings a creamy, nutty balance, making it both nourishing and delicious.
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
- Servings: 2
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 4 cups curly kale, de-stemmed and chopped
- ½ cup red cabbage, shredded
- ¼ cup carrots, julienned
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for topping)
For the Tahini Dressing:
- 3 tbsp tahini
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp water (adjust for consistency)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Optional Additions:
- ½ avocado, diced (for extra creaminess)
- ¼ cup toasted almonds or sunflower seeds (for crunch)
- 1 tbsp nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)
Substitutions:
- No tahini? Use almond butter or cashew butter.
- Extra protein? Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or hemp seeds.
- No kale? Use spinach or Swiss chard.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Kale:
- Place chopped kale in a bowl.
- Drizzle with 1 tbsp lemon juice and massage for 1–2 minutes to soften.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and water until smooth.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Add shredded red cabbage and carrots to the kale.
- Pour the tahini dressing over and toss to coat evenly.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and red pepper flakes.
- Serve immediately or let sit for 10 minutes for deeper flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 6 g
- Fats: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sugar: 3 g
Vitamins & Benefits
- Kale: Rich in iron, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Tahini: Provides healthy fats and calcium.
- Lemon Juice: Aids digestion and boosts vitamin C intake.
Did you know? Massaging kale with lemon juice breaks down its tough fibers, making it softer and easier to digest!
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Dressing Storage: Keep separately in a jar for up to 5 days.
FAQ
❓ How do I make this salad even creamier?
✔️ Add ½ mashed avocado or extra olive oil to the dressing.
❓ What pairs well with this salad?
✔️ Serve with grilled fish, roasted chickpeas, or quinoa for extra protein.
❓ Can I make this salad ahead of time?
✔️ Yes! The flavors develop even more if stored in the fridge for a few hours before serving.