Ina Garten Kale Salad Recipe

This Ina Garten Kale Salad Recipe is a fresh and vibrant recipe, which includes Tuscan kale and Parmesan cheese. It’s a healthy twist on the classic, ready in about 10 minutes.

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Ina Garten Kale Salad Recipe Ingredients

• 1 bunch lacinato (Tuscan) kale, stemmed and finely chopped
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/4 cup good olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: 1/4 cup toasted breadcrumbs or chopped toasted almonds

How To Make Ina Garten Kale Salad

1. Prep the kale: Remove stems from the kale and finely chop or shred the leaves. Place in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until emulsified.
3. Massage the kale: Pour the vinaigrette over the kale. Use clean hands to massage the kale for 1–2 minutes to soften and reduce bitterness.
4. Add toppings: Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and toss gently to coat. Add toasted breadcrumbs or almonds if using.
5. Rest and serve: Let the salad sit for 5–10 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving.

Recipe Tips

• Can I use curly kale instead of lacinato?
  Yes, but it may take slightly longer to massage and soften.
• How to make it vegan:
  Skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
• Can I make this ahead?
  Yes, kale holds up well — just add breadcrumbs or nuts right before serving.
• What proteins go well with this salad?
  Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or hard-boiled eggs for a complete meal.
• How long does massaged kale last?
  It stays good for up to 2–3 days in the fridge.

What To Serve With Kale Salad

This bright salad pairs well with:

• Grilled salmon or chicken breast
• Quiche or frittata
• Roasted sweet potatoes
• Soup and crusty bread
• A simple pasta with olive oil and garlic

How To Store Kale Salad

Refrigerate:
Store in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days. Best if toppings are added just before serving.

Do not freeze:
Kale salad is not suitable for freezing due to texture changes.

Kale Salad Nutrition Facts

• Calories: ~220 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~9g
• Protein: ~5g
• Fat: ~18g
• Fiber: ~3g
• Sugar: ~2g
• Sodium: ~300mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and preparation methods used.

FAQs

Do I need to cook the kale first?
No, massaging with dressing softens raw kale effectively.

Can I substitute lemon with vinegar?
Yes, white wine or apple cider vinegar works well as a substitute.

Is this salad low-carb?
Yes, especially if you skip the breadcrumbs.

How do I toast almonds or breadcrumbs?
Toast in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring often.

Can I add fruit to this salad?
Yes, try dried cranberries, apple slices, or pomegranate seeds.

Try More Recipes:

• Ina Garten Seafood Salad Recipe
• Ina Garten White Bean Salad Recipe
• Ina Garten Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe