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

Raw Food

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.

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