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Kale Salad with Roasted Chickpeas and Creamy Dressing

Kale Salad with Roasted Chickpeas and Creamy Dressing
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A vibrant and nourishing Kale Salad featuring crispy roasted chickpeas and a creamy, tangy dressing. This salad combines the nutrient-packed benefits of kale with satisfying crunchy chickpeas, brought together by a protein-rich Greek yogurt dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a flavorful side dish, this easy-to-make recipe is customizable to suit any dietary preference.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad

  • 4 cups fresh kale leaves, chopped and tough stems removed
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained, rinsed, and dried
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: toasted nuts, seeds, or fresh herbs for garnish

Creamy Dressing

  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or vegan alternative
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Spices (optional)

  • Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (for a spicy twist)

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Roast the Chickpeas: Drain and rinse the chickpeas well, then dry them thoroughly using a kitchen towel. Toss the chickpeas with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of spices if using. Spread the chickpeas evenly on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes until crispy, shaking the pan halfway through to ensure even cooking.
  2. Massage the Kale: Chop the kale into bite-sized pieces, removing the tough stems. Place the kale in a large bowl and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Using your hands, massage the kale for 2-3 minutes until the leaves soften and darken in color. This step reduces bitterness and creates a tender texture.
  3. Prepare the Creamy Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning or acidity if needed. The dressing should be creamy and light enough to coat the salad without weighing it down.
  4. Toss Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine the massaged kale, roasted chickpeas, and creamy dressing. Toss thoroughly to ensure every piece of kale is coated and the chickpeas are evenly distributed for a satisfying crunch.
  5. Add Final Touches: If desired, sprinkle toasted nuts, seeds, or fresh herbs on top for extra flavor and texture. Serve the salad immediately, or let it chill for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Notes

  • Dry chickpeas thoroughly before roasting to ensure maximum crispness.
  • Massage kale well to reduce bitterness and soften texture.
  • Roast chickpeas at a high temperature for a golden, crunchy finish without drying them out.
  • Prepare the dressing ahead of time to enhance flavor development.
  • Serve the salad fresh for the best texture, with kale tender and chickpeas crunchy.

Nutrition

Keywords: kale salad, roasted chickpeas, creamy dressing, healthy salad, gluten free, vegan option, quick salad

Find it online: https://juliaglam.com/kale-salad-with-roasted-chickpeas-and-creamy-dressing/