True Food Kitchen Kale Salad Recipe

This recipe for the Tuscan Kale Salad from True Food Kitchen is fresh, nutritious, and easy to prepare. It features a delightful combination of kale, a zesty dressing, and cheese, making it a perfect side dish or light meal.

Ingredients

½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, mashed
½ teaspoon salt
Pinch of red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
2 bunches lacinato kale (about 14 oz.), ribs removed and leaves sliced into quarter-inch shreds
½ cup Grana Padano or Parmigiano-Reggiano, finely grated on a microplane
2 tablespoons roasted whole-wheat bread crumbs
Additional Grana Padano or Parmigiano-Reggiano shavings for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Dressing:

In a large salad bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, mashed garlic, salt, and red pepper flakes.

Add the Kale:

Add the shredded kale to the bowl and toss well to coat the leaves with the dressing.

Let It Marinate:

Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for 10 to 30 minutes. This helps soften the kale and enhances the flavors.

Finish the Salad:

After marinating, add the grated cheese and roasted bread crumbs. Toss again to combine.

Serve:

Garnish with additional cheese shavings before serving. Enjoy your fresh Tuscan kale salad!

Can I substitute the bread crumbs with another ingredient?

Yes, you can substitute the bread crumbs with several alternatives:

Nuts or Seeds: Chopped almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds add crunch and nutrition.
Toasted Quinoa: Cooked quinoa that has been toasted can provide a similar texture.
Puffed Rice or Corn: These can add a light crunch without the bread component.
Crispy Chickpeas: Roasted chickpeas can offer a crunchy texture and additional protein.

What are some good vegetarian protein sources to add to the salad?

Here are some excellent vegetarian protein sources to enhance your kale salad:

Chickpeas: Canned or cooked chickpeas add protein and fiber.
Tofu or Tempeh: Both are great plant-based protein options; marinated and baked tofu works well.
Edamame: Shelled edamame is high in protein and adds a nice texture.
Quinoa: This grain is a complete protein and adds heartiness to the salad.
Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds provide healthy fats and protein.

How can I make the salad more colorful?

To make your kale salad more colorful, consider adding:

Colorful Vegetables: Diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), shredded carrots, or purple cabbage.
Fruits: Sliced strawberries, blueberries, or diced apples for sweetness and color.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can add a vibrant touch.
Roasted Beets: They add a beautiful color and earthy flavor.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmigiano-Reggiano?

Yes! You can use various types of cheese as a substitute for Parmigiano-Reggiano:

Feta Cheese: Adds a tangy flavor that complements the salad.
Goat Cheese: Offers creaminess and a distinct taste.
Cotija Cheese: A crumbly cheese that adds saltiness.
Nutritional Yeast: For a dairy-free option that provides a cheesy flavor without the calories.

What are some good side dishes to pair with this salad?

Here are some delicious side dishes that pair well with kale salad:

Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus drizzled with olive oil.
Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish with herbs and spices complements the salad nicely.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness contrasts well with the savory kale salad.
Vegetable Soup: A light broth-based vegetable soup makes for a comforting pairing.
Whole Grain Bread or Rolls: Serve alongside for added texture and substance.

These suggestions will help you customize your True Food Kitchen kale salad to suit your taste preferences while making it more nutritious and visually appealing! Enjoy!

This salad not only tastes great but also gets better after sitting for a while, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Enjoy!