Ingredients
- Kale (3 cups): Remove the stems and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Kale is a nutrient powerhouse and becomes tender and flavorful when massaged.
- Avocado (1 large, ripe): Dice it into cubes. Avocado adds a creamy texture and healthy fats to the salad.
- Cherry Tomatoes (1 cup, halved): These bring a burst of juiciness and natural sweetness.
- Red Onion (1/4–1/2 cup, chopped): Adds a sharp, tangy flavor that balances the creaminess of the avocado and feta.
- Feta Cheese (1/2 cup, crumbled): Feta contributes a salty, tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- Fresh Herbs (optional): Scallions and parsley are great choices, but feel free to use your favorites.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dressing
Start by making the dressing, as this will allow the flavors to meld together while you prepare the rest of the salad.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, avocado oil, vinegar, minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Taste the dressing. If you prefer it less tangy, add a little extra oil. For a touch of sweetness, you can stir in a small amount of sugar, honey, or maple syrup.
- Add the chopped red onion to the dressing and let it marinate while you work on the salad. This helps soften the onion’s sharpness.
2. Massage the Kale
Massaging kale might sound strange, but it’s a crucial step that transforms the texture of this leafy green.
- Wash and dry the kale thoroughly, then remove the stems and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- Place the kale in a large bowl and drizzle a small amount of the dressing over it.
- Using your hands, gently massage the kale for 2–3 minutes. You’ll notice the leaves darken and become more tender as the fibers break down. This step enhances both the flavor and texture of the salad.
3. Assemble the Salad
Now it’s time to bring everything together.
- Add the diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and optional fresh herbs to the bowl with the massaged kale.
- Pour the remaining dressing over the salad, making sure to scrape out any bits of marinated red onion.
- Gently toss the salad to coat all the ingredients evenly. Be careful not to mash the avocado too much while tossing.
4. Let it Sit
For the best flavor, let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This gives the ingredients time to absorb the dressing and enhances the overall taste.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy it as is, or pair it with your favorite protein for a heartier meal.
Notes
- How to Tell if Avocado is Ripe
Gently press the avocado with your fingers. If it yields slightly, it’s ripe and ready to use. If it feels too soft or mushy, it may be overripe. - Troubleshooting Overly Tough Kale
If the kale still feels tough after massaging, massage it for another minute or add a pinch of salt to help break it down further. - Alternative Ingredients
- Swap kale for spinach or mixed greens if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Use goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier, tangier option.
- Add grilled chicken or seared beef slices for extra protein.
- Efficient Preparation
- Use pre-washed and chopped kale to save time.
- Prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes