Looking for a vibrant and nutritious salad that can elevate any meal? Dive into the delightful world of our Kale, Carrot, and Parmesan Salad! Packed with crunchy kale, sweet grated carrots, and rich Parmesan cheese, this Italian-inspired dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of flavor. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this refreshing salad that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it's a quick lunch, a dinner side, or a potluck favorite. Ready to impress your taste buds and your guests? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups chopped kale
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the kale leaves under cold running water, removing any dirt or debris. Pat the leaves dry using a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner.
- Remove the tough central stems from the kale leaves by folding the leaf in half and cutting along the stem. Discard the stems.
- Chop the kale into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-2 inches in length, ensuring uniform size for even dressing distribution.
- Peel the carrots and use a box grater or food processor to grate them into fine, uniform shreds.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped kale and grated carrots.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the kale and carrot mixture, using clean hands or salad tongs to massage and coat the ingredients thoroughly.
- Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the kale to soften and absorb the dressing flavors.
- Just before serving, sprinkle shaved Parmesan cheese over the salad, gently tossing to distribute evenly.
- Serve immediately at room temperature or chilled, as a fresh and nutritious side dish.
Tips
- Freshness is Key: Always use fresh kale and carrots for the best flavor and texture. Look for vibrant, crisp leaves and firm carrots.
- Massage the Kale: Don’t skip the step of massaging the kale! This technique helps to break down the tough fibers, making the leaves more tender and enjoyable to eat.
- Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to experiment with the dressing! Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness or a dash of honey for a touch of sweetness.
- Make It a Meal: To turn this salad into a complete meal, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa for added protein.
- Serve It Right: For the best taste, serve the salad immediately after dressing it. If you need to prepare it in advance, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
