Description
The first time I made this Kale Salad with Quinoa and Blueberries, I was craving something bright, hearty, and full of texture
Ingredients
1 bunch kale (lacinato or Tuscan)
1 cup cooked quinoa (from 1/2 cup dry quinoa), cooled
2 cups blueberries
1 English cucumber, sliced
1 avocado, diced
2 beets, spiralized
For the Basil Balsamic Dressing
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup lemon juice
6 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 1/2 cups fresh basil
Sea salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Add all the dressing ingredients to a blender and pulse until the basil is finely chopped and the dressing is smooth
Step 2: Remove the stems from the kale and cut the leaves into bite-sized pieces
Step 3: Pour the dressing over the kale in a large bowl
Step 4: Massage the dressing into the kale using your hands, working it in for 1-2 minutes until the kale softens and darkens
Step 5: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 4-6 hours, to allow the flavors to meld
Step 6: Once ready to serve, add the cooked and cooled quinoa to the kale
Step 7: Gently fold in the blueberries, sliced cucumber, diced avocado, and spiralized beets
Step 8: Toss everything together carefully to distribute the dressing evenly
Step 9: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed
Step 10: Serve fresh or store for up to 2-3 days for even deeper flavor