Description
This vibrant kale, edamame, and quinoa salad is packed with fresh flavors and plant-based protein. Juicy mango, creamy avocado, and a zesty lemon basil vinaigrette bring everything together for a delicious and nutritious meal. Perfect for meal prep, picnics, or as a side dish!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Salad:
- 3/4 cup uncooked quinoa
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 1/2 cups frozen edamame, thawed
- 1 bunch kale, stems removed and finely diced
- 1 cup sliced grape tomatoes
- 1/3 cup diced red onion
- 1 large mango, pitted and diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
Lemon Basil Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey (or agave nectar)
- 4โ6 large basil leaves, finely diced
- Freshly ground salt and black pepper, to taste
To Garnish:
- 1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: In a medium pot, bring quinoa and water to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and transfer to a large bowl to cool.
- Make the Dressing: Blend or whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, honey (or agave), basil, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Massage the Kale: Place kale in a large bowl, pour in half of the dressing, and massage with clean hands for about 3 minutes until softened.
- Assemble the Salad: Add quinoa, edamame, and red onion to the kale. Pour in the remaining dressing and toss to coat.
- Final Touches: Before serving, gently mix in tomatoes, mango, and avocado. Sprinkle with toasted almonds.
- Serve & Enjoy: Enjoy immediately or store in the fridge for later.
Notes
- Massaging the kale helps break it down and enhances the flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Add grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for extra protein.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 0mg