Lemon Parmesan Kale Salad
A vibrant and nutrient-packed Lemon Parmesan Kale Salad combining the zesty brightness of fresh lemon juice with savory parmesan cheese, layered over tender kale leaves. This easy and refreshing salad offers a powerhouse of vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats, perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or starter.
- Author: Lilly
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh kale leaves, firm and dark green
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Sea salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Additions
- Croutons or nuts for added crunch
- Prepare the Kale: Thoroughly wash the kale leaves and remove the tough stems. Chop the kale into bite-sized pieces. Massage the kale with a pinch of sea salt for 1-2 minutes to soften the fibrous texture and reduce bitterness.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the massaged kale and toss gently to coat all leaves evenly. Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add Parmesan and Final Touches: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the salad and toss gently again. If using optional toppings such as croutons or nuts, add them now for extra texture and crunch.
Notes
- Massage the kale to soften leaves and make it easier to eat and digest.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest, most vibrant flavor.
- Grate Parmesan cheese fresh for better texture and richer flavor.
- Use olive oil sparingly to avoid making the salad greasy.
- Allow the salad to rest for a few minutes before serving for deeper flavor integration.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 2.5 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
Keywords: lemon parmesan kale salad, kale salad, healthy salad, vegetarian salad, gluten free salad, quick salad, nutrient rich salad