Chopped Kale, Cherry Tomatoes, Crumbled Feta, and Fresh Mint Salad
Step into a vibrant culinary adventure with this Greek-inspired kale salad that'll tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more! This hearty salad, brimming with texture and flavor, is perfect as a light lunch or a zesty side dish.
This dish calls for flat-leaf kale, which is tough and sturdy, making it an excellent choice for a salad that doesn't require cooking. In this recipe, the kale is cut into ribbons, massaged with olive oil, and salt to soften it, creating a delightful, chewy texture.
Garlic takes center stage in the tangy, garlicky dressing. By smashing garlic into a paste and whisking it with cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil, you'll have a zesty dressing that pairs perfectly with the kale. Toss the salad with cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and scallions and serve it up as is, or alongside your favorite protein.
Picture a forkful of this salad next to delicious roasted chicken or grilled salmon. The earthy flavor of the kale marries beautifully with the tender chicken or the slightly sweet salmon. If you're feeling adventurous, try serving it with Middle Eastern Za'atar Chicken for a flavor bomb combination. Or, opt for Greek Stuffed Bell Peppers for a colorful, nutritious side.
Warm pita bread on the side lets you scoop up every last bite of this salad, or dip it in the remaining juices for an added delight. If you're going for a vegetarian option, a hearty lentil soup or stew will serve as a comforting contrast to this light, fresh salad.
So, gather your ingredients and get ready to mix, massage, and toss your way to a delicious meal!
- Yield: 4 servings
- Difficulty: Easy
- Total: 40 mins
Ingredients:* 1 pound flat-leaf kale (about 2 bunches)* 1/3 cup olive oil* 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more as needed* 2 medium garlic cloves, finely chopped* 2 tablespoons cider vinegar* 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard* 12 ounces red or yellow cherry tomatoes, halved* 6 ounces feta cheese, crumbled (about 1 1/2 cups)* 2 medium scallions, thinly sliced (white and light green parts only)* 2 tablespoons thinly sliced fresh mint leaves
Instructions:1. Wash and dry the kale. Cut out and discard the tough stems. Arrange the leaves into stacks, slice crosswise into 1/4-inch ribbons, and place in a large bowl. Add 2 teaspoons of the oil and 1/2 teaspoon of the salt and gently squeeze and toss the leaves with your hands until they're coated with the oil and have softened slightly.2. Place the garlic and remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt on a cutting board and drag the side of a chef's knife across them at a 15-degree angle until a smooth paste forms.3. Transfer the garlic paste to a medium, nonreactive bowl, add the vinegar and mustard, and whisk to combine. While whisking continuously, add the remaining oil in a slow, steady stream until fully incorporated.4. Add the dressing to the bowl with the kale and toss to coat the leaves. Add the tomatoes, feta, scallions, and mint and toss to combine. Taste and season with salt as needed. Serve immediately.
Get ready to sink your teeth into a salad that's ripe with flavor and full of textural delights! This Greek-inspired kale salad is just what you need to refresh your palate and delight your senses. Enjoy!
Dish Suggestions
When serving this kale salad, consider pairing it with flavorful proteins and sides for a well-rounded meal. Here are some dish suggestions:
- Roasted Chicken: A classic choice, roasted chicken pairs well with the earthy flavor of kale and the tanginess of feta. Season the chicken with herbs like thyme and rosemary to enhance the dish.
- Grilled Salmon: Salmon, with its tender and slightly sweet flavor, complements the boldness of the kale and feta. A light drizzle of lemon and olive oil can enhance the dish.
- Middle Eastern Za'atar Chicken: This option adds a Middle Eastern twist with za'atar spices. It pairs well with the fresh mint in the salad, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Greek Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed bell peppers filled with rice, herbs, and sometimes meat, offer a colorful and nutritious accompaniment. The sweetness of the bell peppers pairs well with the savory salad.
- Lentil Soup or Stew: For a vegetarian option, a hearty lentil soup or stew can provide a comforting contrast to the light, fresh salad.
- Warm Pita Bread: Serving warm pita bread on the side allows guests to use it to scoop up the salad or dip it in the juices, enhancing the dining experience.
- Quinoa or Brown Rice Pilaf: A side of quinoa or brown rice pilaf, flavored with herbs and spices, can provide a satisfying base to the meal.
Each of these dishes offers a range of textures and flavors that complement the kale salad without overpowering it, ensuring a well-balanced meal. Happy cooking!
- This Greek-inspired kale salad features a tangy and garlicky dressing that is made by smashing garlic into a paste, whisking it with cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
- Nutrition-conscious individuals will appreciate that this kale salad is packed with hearty vegetables such as kale, cherry tomatoes, and scallions, making it a great source of essential vitamins and minerals.
- Uncategorized side options for this kale salad include warm pita bread or a hearty lentil soup or stew, providing a comforting contrast to the light, fresh salad.
- When pairing this kale salad with proteins, consider Middle Eastern Za'atar Chicken for a flavor bomb combination or grilled salmon for a slightly sweet and tender accompaniment.
