Kale Quinoa Lemon Dressing (Printable Version)

Tender kale, fluffy quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, and zesty lemon dressing combine for a vibrant meal.

# Ingredient List:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced (approximately 12 ounces)
02 - 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped (approximately 5.3 ounces)
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)

# How to Make:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Toss diced sweet potato with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on the baking sheet and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender.
03 - Bring 2 cups water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add rinsed quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is fully absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Allow to cool slightly.
04 - Place chopped kale in a large bowl. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon olive oil and a pinch of salt. Massage with your hands for 2 to 3 minutes until leaves soften and darken.
05 - In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
06 - Add cooked quinoa, roasted sweet potato, red onion, and parsley to the kale. Pour dressing over and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
07 - Sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds, crumbled feta (if using), and pomegranate seeds on top. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later consumption.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Loaded with vitamins and fiber for a nourishing meal
  • Easy to customize and suitable for meal prep
02 -
  • For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based substitute
  • Gluten-free as written, but check ingredient labels for cross-contamination
03 -
  • Massage the kale thoroughly for best texture
  • Add grilled chicken or chickpeas to boost protein and make it a main course
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