Zesty Lemon and Kale Salad with Tahini Dressing: A Refreshing & Nutrient-Rich Green Boost

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:

1. 4 cups curly kale, de-stemmed and chopped
2. ½ cup red cabbage, shredded
3. ¼ cup carrots, julienned
4. 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:

1. ½ avocado, diced (for extra creaminess)
2. ¼ cup toasted almonds or sunflower seeds (for crunch)
3. 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

1. Prepare the Kale:
   • Place chopped kale in a bowl.
   • Drizzle with 1 tbsp lemon juice and massage for 1–2 minutes to soften.
2. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and water until smooth.
3. Assemble the Salad:
   • Add shredded red cabbage and carrots to the kale.
   • Pour the tahini dressing over and toss to coat evenly.
4. 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.