Crispy Quinoa Kale Salad with Orange Vinaigrette (GF)
Overview
SERVINGS: 4-6 / PREP TIME: 30 Minutes / COOK TIME: 1 HR
If you’re craving a restaurant-style salad at home, let this kale salad be the one. Kale is one of the best salad greens because it stays crisp even with dressing. Girl, get you some Vitamin K, protein, and healthy fats with this nutrient-packed lunch. The crispy quinoa subs in like a crouton, with triple the benefits.
Ingredients
For the Salad
2 heads Lacinto Kale, stems cut out and heavily chopped
½ cup tri-color quinoa
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
½ cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds with no shell)
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 sumo or navel orange, peeled and chopped into bite-size pieces
1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken
Salt and Pepper
For the Orange Vinaigrette
2 tbsp pure orange juice
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper
Equipment
Sheet pan
Parchment paper
Stock pot with lid
Serving bowl
Instructions
Make your dressing first or ahead of time so flavors can meld. Combine orange juice, EVOO, vinegar, dijon mustard, maple syrup and red pepper in a sealable container. Shake thoroughly and refrigerate until use.
Make your quinoa by adding ½ cup quinoa and 1 cup water to a pot. Bring to a boil then cover and reduce to a simmer at medium-low. Simmer until the grains are translucent and the germ has spiraled from each grain, about 15 minutes.
Pre-heat your oven to 375 degrees.
Once quinoa is done, mix with 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, salt and pepper. Spread evenly on a parchment paper-lined sheet pan and cook for 25-30 minutes until crispy, tossing halfway through.
While quinoa is cooking, chop kale until nearly shredded. Massage dressing in if serving immediately, at least 30 minutes prior to serving. Add pepitas, parmesan, crispy quinoa, orange pieces, and rotisserie chicken. Toss and serve to your ladies who lunch.
Catch the Tutorial
@singlegirlservings__
Pull Up a Chair
Get the latest recipes & hot takes from SGS — sent straight to your inbox.