A nutrient-rich salad combining kale, quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, and a bright lemon dressing.
# What You'll Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced (approximately 12.3 oz)
02 - 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped (approximately 5.3 oz)
03 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
04 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
05 - 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds (optional, for garnish)
→ Grains
06 - 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
→ Dressing
07 - 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
08 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
09 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest
10 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
11 - 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
12 - 1 small garlic clove, minced
13 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
→ Toppings
14 - 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
15 - 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss diced sweet potato with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and golden.
02 - Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and let cool slightly.
03 - Place chopped kale in a large bowl. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Massage the leaves with your hands for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and darkened.
04 - In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until combined.
05 - Add cooked quinoa, roasted sweet potato, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped parsley to the massaged kale. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to combine all ingredients.
06 - Sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds, crumbled feta (if using), and pomegranate seeds on top. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.
