Delicious Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad for Healthy Living

Introduction

In the quest for a vibrant, nutrient-packed salad that promotes healthy living, kale and Brussels sprouts stand out as superheroes of the greens. Both ingredients are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a fantastic choice for your next meal or side dish.

This delicious salad combines the hearty, earthy flavors of finely shredded kale with the nutty crunch of Brussels sprouts. Tossed together with a zesty dressing and complementary toppings, it’s a salad that looks as good as it tastes. Whether enjoyed on its own or as a lively companion to your favorite protein, this salad is sure to engage your taste buds.

Ready to explore the layers of flavors and health benefits this salad offers? Gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into the delightful combination that is sure to add joy and wellness to your dining experience.

Ingredients

• 4 cups kale, chopped
• 2 cups Brussels sprouts, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup roasted walnuts, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions & Preparation

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped kale, sliced Brussels sprouts, shredded carrots, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure all the greens are evenly coated.
4. Add the roasted walnuts and crumbled feta cheese to the salad, gently mixing for even distribution.
5. Let the salad sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the kale to soften slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper as needed before serving.

FAQs

What is the best way to prepare kale for this salad?

Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into small bite-sized pieces, massaging them with a bit of salt can make them tender.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the dressing?

If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add an extra teaspoon of honey or use maple syrup as a substitute.

What other toppings can I add to this salad?

Consider adding sliced apples, dried cranberries, or chickpeas for added flavor and texture.

What should I do if the dressing is too thick?

You can thin the dressing by whisking in a tablespoon of water at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

Can I make this salad more filling?

You can enhance the salad's heartiness by adding grilled chicken, quinoa, or canned beans.

How can I scale this recipe for a larger group?

Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need, maintaining the same ratios for the dressing.

What if the Brussels sprouts taste too raw?

If the flavor is too strong, try lightly sautéing them in olive oil for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.

Conclusion

This kale and Brussels sprout salad is more than just a side; it's a celebration of healthy ingredients that can be adapted to suit your taste preferences. With a variety of textures and flavors in each bite, it's sure to please even the most discerning palates.

Incorporate this salad into your weekly meal rotation, and you'll enjoy not only its health benefits but also its deliciousness. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients and dressing, making it a personalized dish that resonates with you and your loved ones.

Recipe Card

Sweet and Savory Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Recipe

Sweet & Savory Honey Garlic Crock Pot Chicken Thighs made approachable with clear cues, pantry staples, and flexible swaps.

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Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 3 green onions sliced (for garnish)

Method

 

1. Prepare the chicken thighs by patting them dry and seasoning with salt and pepper.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, and sesame oil.
3. Place chicken thighs in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over them.
4. Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 4-5 hours, or until chicken is tender and fully cooked.
5. Once cooked, remove chicken from the slow cooker and let it rest briefly before serving.
6. Serve the chicken thighs garnished with sliced green onions and drizzled with additional sauce from the slow cooker.

Notes

Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.

For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.

Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.