[Meatless Monday] Super! Green Salad

Up until last week, I had never had kale before. I guess my parents were more considerate than others when it came to what food they put on our plates. No beets, no brussels sprouts, no meatloaf, and no kale. We did have plenty of spinach growing up; and I absolutely adore spinach! Since taking an interest in food and my health, I've read nothing but good things about this other leafy green, so I final worked up the courage to buy some. 

My thoughts? Its a ton tougher in texture than spinach, and more bitter with a slight sourness. But its something that I could definitely get used to, given the health benefits of eating it. Kale is high in: fiber, iron, calcium, antioxidants, and vitamin A, C & K (note: protects against various cancers). Its low in calories and has no fat. And its an anti-inflammatory, supports cardiovascular functioning, and is good for detoxing (more here).

Super food? I think so!



Anxious to crack the kale code,  I had kale at every meal one day last week. Kale smoothie, this salad, and a kale & rice side for dinner. Although I still need to perfect my "blanching" technique and probably invest in a vita-mix, I think kale has got me just about won over.

This salad, inspired by a few green, super food plates, was a perfect summer lunch. It's something you take a bite of and just know you are doing your body a favor. It's not screaming with flavor, but its beautiful to look at and the textures keep things interesting. I enjoyed my salad with a homemade avocado dressing to take the green-ness up one more notch, but I bet it would be great with an Asia-type dressing too.

Happy Monday! We survived :)

Super! Green Salad

Inspired by Oh She Glows! and Tastespotting

Servings: 3

Note: The below measurements are estimates; just add as much or as little of the below ingredients as you like!


1/4 cup quinoa, cooked with vegetable broth & cooled
3 cups kale, chopped & blanched
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup edamame, cooked
2 ears of corn (~1 1/2 cups), cooked & cooled
1 jalapeno, finely chopped
1 1/2 cups cucumbers, chopped
Salt & pepper, to taste
Avocado Tahini dressing, such as this one or this one

• Add all ingredients together in a large bowl; and mix until combined. Keep in fridge, and dress salad just before eating.