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Lunch Salad: Kale Salad with Carrot Ginger Dressing

Lunch Salad: Kale Salad with Carrot Ginger Dressing
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A vibrant and nutrient-packed kale salad dressed with a sweet and spicy homemade carrot ginger dressing. This fresh and satisfying salad combines hearty kale leaves with a creamy dressing featuring shredded carrots, fresh ginger, and a touch of natural sweetness. Perfect for a healthy lunch or a colorful side dish, this recipe offers superfood benefits, easy preparation, and versatile add-ins to customize to your taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad

  • 4 cups fresh kale (curly or dinosaur), washed, stems removed, and chopped finely
  • 1 cup fresh shredded carrots
  • Optional add-ins: toasted nuts or seeds (such as almonds or pumpkin seeds), dried cranberries or raisins

Carrot Ginger Dressing

  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Kale: Wash the kale thoroughly, then remove the tough stems and chop the leaves finely. Massage the kale with a small drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt for 2 to 3 minutes until the leaves soften and become more tender and easier to chew.
  2. Make the Carrot Ginger Dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine shredded carrots, fresh grated ginger, olive oil, lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning or sweetness as needed for a perfectly balanced dressing.
  3. Toss the Salad: Pour the carrot ginger dressing over the massaged kale and toss well to coat every leaf evenly. If using any optional add-ins like toasted nuts, seeds, dried cranberries, or raisins, sprinkle them on top now.
  4. Let It Rest (Optional): Allow the salad to rest for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and the kale soften further, enhancing the texture and taste.

Notes

  • Massage the kale to break down its toughness and release natural sweetness and vibrant color.
  • Use fresh ginger for the best bright zing; avoid powdered ginger in the dressing.
  • Balance the dressing flavor by tasting as you go and adjusting lemon juice or sweetener according to carrot sweetness.
  • Add crunchy nuts, seeds, or dried fruit just before serving to keep them crisp.
  • If making ahead, store dressing separately to maintain the salad’s freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: kale salad, carrot ginger dressing, healthy lunch, vegan salad, gluten free salad, superfood salad, easy salad recipe

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/lunch-salad-kale-salad-with-carrot-ginger-dressing/