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Kale Quinoa Salad with Oregano Lemon Vinaigrette
Kale Quinoa Salad with Oregano Lemon Vinaigrette
"Kale, quinoa, carrots, pine nuts and dried cranberries tossed in a delightful oregano lemon vinaigrette. This Kale Quinoa Salad has officially become my go-to spring salad. Did I mention that it's also gluten-free and vegan?"
Serves4 People
Preparation Time10 min
Cooking Time15 min
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa
- 1 pound kale
- 1 cup carrots, thinly sliced
- 1 cup pine nuts
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano leaves
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
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In a small saucepan, add 1 cup water and 1/2 cup quinoa, bring to a boil and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and fluffy. Remove from heat and let cool.
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Place rinsed and torn kale leaves in a large mixing bowl. Add some olive oil and a pinch of salt and massage the kale with both of your hands for about 5 minutes. (This step will help reduce the bitter flavor of the kale. Set aside.)
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Now, make the vinaigrette by adding Dijon mustard, lemon juice, oregano leaves, salt, red pepper flakes, maple syrup and garlic in a blender. Blend until smooth, then slowly add extra virgin olive oil, continue blending until well combined.
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Add carrots, pine nuts, dried cranberries and cooled quinoa in the mixing bowl with the kale. Pour the vinaigrette over and toss all ingredients together. Taste, sprinkle with more salt if desired. Dish and season with freshly ground black pepper. Enjoy!
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