Crunchy Kale Salad with Almonds, Parmesan and Dried Dates
There are secrets to working with Kale that will turn a hater to a lover of this super food – seriously….
The first secret is to not buy the Kale already chopped and in a bag. This contains stems and it just doesn’t taste as good as it does if YOU prepare it the right way. Sorry, it’s more work but it really is worth it! Second, kale likes a little heat. Even if you are using it in a salad, just a slight wilt will give you yummy results. I’m not talking about blanching it. I’m talking about putting your toasted almonds on the Kale while they are still hot from toasting. And third, when using it in a salad the dressing must be massaged into the kale in order to ensure a tender, well-dressed salad.
This truly is an easy salad and is a hit at gatherings!
My family requests this all the time, which is great because it’s so easy. It also lasts for up to 3 days in the fridge, something unheard of from most salads. You can make it even easier by using store bought dressing. I like to make my own because it is easy, I know it doesn’t have preservatives and I can use blue agave syrup instead of other sweeteners. But that’s just me, y’all do what makes you happy! You can find my vinaigrette recipe here:
Crunchy Chopped Kale Salad with Dried Dates and Parmesan Cheese
Ingredients
- 8 cups Kale Chopped semi-fine
- 3/4 cup Slivered almonds Lightly toasted
- 1/4 cup Red onion or Shallot finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Sweet Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe in notes section
- 1/4 cup Chopped Dried Dates or substitue dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese Shredded
Sweet Lemon Vinaigrette
Instructions
- Prepare the Kale by removing the stems, washing it and spinning it dry or dry it with paper towels. Chop it to a medium chop.
- Toast the almonds until they smell toasty. Do not walk away from the stove! While they are still warm, sprinkle them over the kale. This will help wilt that kale so that it absorbs the dressing.
- Add the red onion and chopped dates (or substitute dried cranberries if you don't like dates). Add the dressing and using your hands massage the dressing into the kale. This ensures the kale will be tender and allow the dressing to be absorbed into all the kale.
- Add the parmesan cheese and mix well.
