Sesame Kale Salad
The Sesame Kale Salad is one of those vibrant dishes that brightens my day regardless of the season. As I toss the ingredients together, the colors from the kale, Brussels sprouts, and red cabbage create a beautiful medley that’s hard to resist. I often find myself craving this salad not only for its freshness but also for the satisfying crunch it brings. Each bite is a burst of flavor—from the nutty sesame seeds to the zing of ginger. It’s an instant mood lifter! Whether I’m having a casual lunch at home or preparing for a gathering with friends, this salad always shines on the table. I love how it pairs wonderfully with various dishes, making it a versatile choice that everyone loves.
Recipe Snapshot
20 mins
20 mins
0 mins
Medium
150 kcal
5 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
7 g
Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Grater, Wooden Spoon
The Beauty of This Sesame Kale Salad
Freshness in Every Bite
What I absolutely love about the Sesame Kale Salad is its crunch factor. The combination of kale, Brussels sprouts, and carrots not only adds an array of colors but also a delightful texture that makes every mouthful satisfying. You get to enjoy that satisfying crunch while knowing you’re nourishing your body.
Wholesome Ingredients
Using fresh, wholesome ingredients is a core value for me, and this salad embodies that philosophy. The rice vinegar and soy sauce in the dressing bring a lovely balance of tanginess that elevates the salad without overwhelming it. Each ingredient plays its part, adding layers of flavor that create a delicious harmony.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This salad isn’t just a summer fling! The Sesame Kale Salad shines in spring, making it perfect for picnics or family gatherings. Its versatility extends year-round, and I often find myself making it for lunch, dinner, or even as a refreshing side dish during holiday meals.
Quick and Easy Preparation
When I’m short on time, the Sesame Kale Salad comes to my rescue. With just a few simple steps, I can whip this up in no time. It’s a great option for those hectic weekdays, providing a healthy and fulfilling meal without taking too much time away from my busy schedule.
A Nutrient Powerhouse
This salad is packed with nutrients. From the rich iron content in kale to the vitamin C from cabbage, each ingredient contributes to a healthy diet. I always feel great knowing I’m fueling my body with such nutritious foods!
Make Ahead and Enjoy Later
One of the best aspects of the Sesame Kale Salad is that it can be made ahead of time. I often prepare it in advance and store the dressing separately. This way, I can enjoy it fresh throughout the week, making it a perfect meal prep option!
Recipe Ingredients for Sesame Kale Salad
The ingredients in the Sesame Kale Salad are not just nutritious but also work beautifully together. The combination of crunchy vegetables and a zesty dressing creates a vibrant flavor profile that’s sure to impress. Each ingredient has its unique characteristics that contribute to the overall success of the dish.
- Kale – 4 cups, roughly chopped: The star of the salad, kale is nutrient-dense and provides a hearty base that holds up well against the dressing.
- Brussels sprouts – 1 cup, shaved thin or finely chopped: Adding a delightful crunch, Brussels sprouts are rich in fiber and vitamins.
- Red cabbage – 1/2 cup, shredded: Not only does it add color, but red cabbage is also packed with antioxidants.
- Carrots – 1/2 cup, shredded: The sweetness of carrots balances the salad and brings a lovely texture.
- Cucumber – 1/2 cup, thinly sliced: Refreshing and hydrating, cucumber adds a crisp bite to the mix.
- Rice vinegar – 2 tablespoons: A key ingredient in the dressing, rice vinegar brings a tangy flavor that enhances the salad.
- Soy sauce – 1 tablespoon: Adds depth and umami to the dressing, making the salad irresistible.
- Honey – 1 teaspoon: A touch of sweetness that complements the savory elements of the dish.
- Ginger – 1 teaspoon, fresh and grated: Brings a warm, zesty flavor that elevates the overall taste.
- Sesame seeds – 1 teaspoon: A finishing touch that adds nuttiness and texture.
- Orange zest – 1 teaspoon: Brightens the dressing with a citrusy aroma, enhancing the freshness.
Recipe Directions for Sesame Kale Salad
Making the Sesame Kale Salad is a fun and straightforward process. Each step brings you closer to a delightful bowl of goodness! Let’s dive into the instructions.
Start by preparing your vegetables. Begin with the kale; wash and roughly chop it into bite-sized pieces. The greens should feel crisp and vibrant. You’ll want to remove any tough stems to ensure a pleasant texture.
Next, take the Brussels sprouts. Finely chop or shave them thinly. This not only enhances the flavor but also ensures they blend seamlessly with the other vegetables.
Then, shred the red cabbage. I love the pop of color it adds to the salad! Aim for thin strips to provide a delightful crunch.
Now, onto the carrots. Shred them using a box grater or food processor for ease. Their sweetness will contrast beautifully with the savory dressing.
For the cucumber, slice it thinly. This adds an extra refreshing element to the dish. It’s important to keep the slices uniform for a cohesive look.
Once all the veggies are prepped, combine them in a large bowl. This colorful mix is the heart of your Sesame Kale Salad.
Now, let’s whip up the dressing. In a small bowl, combine the rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, and freshly grated ginger. Whisk these together until they are well blended.
After mixing the dressing, you might want to let it sit for about five minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Next, drizzle about two teaspoons of the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything well to ensure the vegetables are coated evenly.
Finally, serve the salad in individual bowls, garnishing each with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a hint of orange zest for a finishing touch. Enjoy your vibrant and nutritious Sesame Kale Salad!
Things Worth Knowing
- Choose Fresh Kale: Look for deep green, vibrant leaves without any yellowing. Fresh kale will provide the best flavor and texture.
- Shaving Brussels Sprouts: A mandoline or sharp knife works wonders for shaving Brussels sprouts thinly, allowing them to absorb the dressing better.
- Resting the Dressing: Letting the dressing sit enhances its flavors. Always give it a quick stir before using!
- Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad will stay fresh for a couple of days, though the kale may soften slightly.
Making Adjustments
Flexibility is key when it comes to the Sesame Kale Salad. Here are some tips for making adjustments to suit your taste:
- Adding Protein: Feel free to toss in some grilled chicken or tofu for a heartier meal.
- Vegan Option: This salad is naturally vegan-friendly! Just be sure to choose a vegan honey substitute if needed.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different dressings! A sesame oil-based dressing adds richness, while a citrus-based one can give a refreshing twist.
- Seasonal Ingredients: Swap in seasonal vegetables like radishes or peppers for a different flavor profile.
- Nutty Twist: Consider adding nuts like almonds or walnuts for an extra crunch and health benefits.
- Storage: Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness and crunch.
- Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze individual components for later use, though the texture may change.
How to Serve Sesame Kale Salad
Serving the Sesame Kale Salad is an opportunity to get creative and make every meal feel special.
- As a Main Course: This salad can stand alone as a filling lunch or dinner option, especially when topped with proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- Perfect for Picnics: The Sesame Kale Salad holds up well, making it a great option for outdoor gatherings and BBQs.
- Holiday Celebrations: Brighten up your holiday table with this colorful dish that adds a fresh touch to festive meals.
- On the Side: Pair it as a side dish with roasted vegetables or grilled meats to complement their flavors.
- Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Just remember to dress it right before serving for the best experience.
- Seasonal Pairings: During spring, serve with grilled asparagus or fresh fruit for a delightful combination.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Sesame Kale Salad is a vibrant, healthy dish that brings together the best of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. It’s perfect for any occasion, and I encourage you to give it a try in your kitchen. You’ll find that it’s not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying to eat. Whether as a main or a side, this salad will surely become a staple in your meal rotation.
Sesame Kale Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by preparing your vegetables. Begin with the kale; wash and roughly chop it into bite-sized pieces. The greens should feel crisp and vibrant. You’ll want to remove any tough stems to ensure a pleasant texture.
- Next, take the Brussels sprouts. Finely chop or shave them thinly. This not only enhances the flavor but also ensures they blend seamlessly with the other vegetables.
- Then, shred the red cabbage. I love the pop of color it adds to the salad! Aim for thin strips to provide a delightful crunch.
- Now, onto the carrots. Shred them using a box grater or food processor for ease. Their sweetness will contrast beautifully with the savory dressing.
- For the cucumber, slice it thinly. This adds an extra refreshing element to the dish. It’s important to keep the slices uniform for a cohesive look.
- Once all the veggies are prepped, combine them in a large bowl. This colorful mix is the heart of your Sesame Kale Salad.
- Now, let’s whip up the dressing. In a small bowl, combine the rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, and freshly grated ginger. Whisk these together until they are well blended.
- After mixing the dressing, you might want to let it sit for about five minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Next, drizzle about two teaspoons of the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything well to ensure the vegetables are coated evenly.
- Finally, serve the salad in individual bowls, garnishing each with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a hint of orange zest for a finishing touch. Enjoy your vibrant and nutritious Sesame Kale Salad!
