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Fresh Lemon Parm Kale Salad topped with Parmesan cheese and lemon dressing

Lemon Parm Kale Salad

A bright and fresh salad featuring massaged kale, zesty lemon dressing, and rich Parmesan.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the salad
  • 1 bunch Kale Thick stems removed and chopped or torn into bite-sized pieces
  • 1-2 tablespoons Olive oil For massaging the kale
  • 1/3-1/2 cup Freshly grated Parmesan For mixing in and topping
For the dressing
  • 3 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice Fresh juice for best flavor
  • 3 tablespoons Olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Honey or maple syrup Optional sweetener
  • 1 small clove Garlic, finely minced
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Wash the kale well, then dry it. Trim out the thick stems and chop or tear the leaves into bite size pieces.
  2. Put the kale in a large bowl. Add a pinch of salt and 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil, then massage the leaves with your hands for 1 to 2 minutes until they soften and turn a bit darker.
  3. Make the dressing in a small bowl by mixing fresh lemon juice, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, and salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Add freshly grated Parmesan to the kale. Pour the dressing over the kale and toss well, ensuring the leaves are coated.
  5. Let the salad sit for 5 to 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the kale to soften further.
  6. Taste and add more lemon juice, salt, or Parmesan if desired.
Serving
  1. Serve with a little extra shaved Parmesan and a twist of black pepper.

Notes

Massage the kale well for a gentler flavor, and use fresh lemon juice and grated Parmesan for best results. For a creamier dressing, stir in Greek yogurt or mayonnaise. Taste as you go to achieve desired flavor.