Vibrant Kale Salad with Citrus and Pomegranate
This Vibrant Kale Salad with Citrus and Pomegranate is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will liven up any meal. Fresh curly kale forms the base of the salad, providing a nutrient-packed and sturdy green that stands up to a zesty dressing. The sweet, tangy bursts from the tangerine segments and the crunchy walnuts add depth, while the jewel-like pomegranate seeds provide a colorful and flavorful garnish. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a side dish at dinner, this salad not only looks stunning but is also packed with vitamins and healthy fats. Enjoy this refreshing dish anytime you crave a vibrant, healthy meal!
N/A
Servings
130
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Tangerine Juice
1/4 cup (Freshly squeezed)
Garlic
1 clove (Minced)
Balsamic Vinegar
2 teaspoons (N/A)
Salt
To taste (N/A)
Pepper
To taste (N/A)
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
1/2 cup (N/A)
Curly Kale
1 bunch (Stems removed, leaves torn)
Tangerines
3 (Separated into segments)
Walnuts
3/4 cup (Chopped)
Pomegranate Seeds
1/4 cup (N/A)
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, whisk together the tangerine juice, minced garlic, and balsamic vinegar until well combined.
2
Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Gradually add the extra-virgin olive oil while continuously whisking to emulsify the dressing.
3
In a large mixing bowl, add the torn kale leaves, tangerine segments, and walnuts. Drizzle some of the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring the ingredients are evenly coated.
4
Transfer the salad to a beautiful serving platter and elegantly sprinkle the pomegranate seeds on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Nutrition Information
11.5g
Fat
8g
Carbs
2g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary ingredients in the Vibrant Kale Salad?
The main ingredients include curly kale, tangerine segments, chopped walnuts, and pomegranate seeds.
Is this kale salad recipe vegan?
Yes, this salad is 100% vegan as it contains no animal products.
Is the Vibrant Kale Salad gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
What ingredients are used to make the dressing?
The dressing consists of tangerine juice, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and extra-virgin olive oil.
Can I substitute the curly kale with another green?
Yes, while curly kale is sturdy, you can use Lacinato kale or even baby spinach, though the texture will vary.
How should I prepare the kale for the salad?
You should remove the tough stems and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
What can I use if I do not have tangerines?
Oranges or clementines make an excellent substitute for both the juice and the segments.
Are the walnuts in this recipe toasted?
The recipe calls for chopped walnuts; you can use them raw or toast them briefly for extra crunch.
Can I make this salad nut-free?
Yes, you can omit the walnuts or replace them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.
How many calories are in one serving of this salad?
There are 130 calories per serving.
Is this salad good for meal prep?
Yes, kale is a sturdy green that does not wilt quickly, making it suitable for preparing a few hours in advance.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I use bottled pomegranate juice instead of seeds?
The seeds are used for texture and a 'pop' of flavor; juice would not provide the same experience.
How do I emulsify the salad dressing?
Gradually add the olive oil to the juice and vinegar mixture while continuously whisking to create an emulsion.
How long does it take to make this recipe?
It is a quick meal that can be prepared in approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
Is this salad considered healthy?
Yes, it is packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats from olive oil and walnuts.
Can I add extra protein to this salad?
Absolutely, grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu would pair very well with these flavors.
What kind of vinegar is recommended?
The recipe specifies balsamic vinegar for its sweetness and depth.
Should I massage the kale?
While not explicitly in the instructions, massaging the kale with a bit of the dressing can help soften the leaves.
What provides the sweetness in this recipe?
The sweetness comes naturally from the tangerine segments and the balsamic vinegar.
What is the fat content per serving?
The salad contains 11.5g of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
There are 8g of carbohydrates per serving.
Does this recipe contain cholesterol?
No, this recipe is cholesterol-free.
How much protein does the salad provide?
Each serving provides 2g of protein.
Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of balsamic?
Yes, but it will be tangier and less sweet than the original version.
What is the best way to serve this salad?
Transfer it to a large serving platter and top with pomegranate seeds immediately before serving.
Is this salad suitable for a citrus-free diet?
No, as tangerines are a core component of both the base and the dressing.
How many tangerines are needed for the segments?
The recipe requires 3 tangerines separated into segments.
How much tangerine juice is needed for the dressing?
You will need 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed tangerine juice.
Can I add cheese to this salad?
Yes, feta or goat cheese would be a delicious non-vegan addition.