Kale Salad with Garlic Croutons

Makes 4–6 servings

Tired of the same old boring salads? Try substituting kale for your usual greens! This leafy superfood is packed full of vitamins and nutrients, and since it’s only 33 calories a cup, you won’t sweat going for seconds. This salad, with its homemade dressing and croutons, is a healthy eater’s dream. You can even try adding in quinoa if you’re in need of more protein for the day!

INGREDIENTS

For the Salad:

2 bunches of fresh kale, washed and dried
½ tsp. salt, plus more for the bread
3 tbsp. grapeseed oil or olive oil, divided
2 slices sourdough bread (about ¾ inch thick)
1 small clove garlic, minced
2 tbsp. shaved Parmesan cheese (optional)

For the Dressing:

1 medium clove garlic, diced
2 tbsp. lemon juice
¼ tsp. salt
2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Cut the stem off each kale leaf and discard. Place the kale in a large bowl and add the salt and 2 tablespoons of the grapeseed oil.
2. Brush both sides of the bread with the remaining tablespoon of grapeseed oil. Apply the garlic on each side of the bread.
3. Preheat a grill to medium, or place a grill pan over medium heat. Grill the kale leaves in small batches for 30–45 seconds per side, until golden and crisp. Set aside.
4. Grill the bread until it is nice and charred on both sides, about 2 minutes. Cut the kale leaves into ¾-inch pieces and transfer to a large serving bowl. Cut the garlic bread into croutons, about ¼-inch cubes, and set aside.
5. To make the dressing, use a grater to finely grate the garlic clove into a small bowl. Add the lemon juice and salt and stir to combine, then slowly mix in the olive oil. Pour the dressing over the chopped kale and toss evenly. Garnish with the shaved Parmesan and garlic croutons. Serve immediately

NUTRITION • PER ONE SERVING

Calories 310
Total Fat 16g (21%)
Saturated Fat 2.518g (13%)
Trans Fat 0.027g
Total Carbohydrate 35g (13%)
Dietary Fiber 3g (11%)
Total Sugars 4g
Includes 0g
Added Sugars (0%)
Cholesterol < 5mg (1%)
Sodium 740mg (32%)
Protein 9g (18%)
Vitamin D 0mcg (0%)
Calcium 129mg (10%)
Iron 3.08mg (15%)
Potassium 343mg (8%)
Phosphorus (10%)

This AMAZING Recipe can be found in my Mediterranean Meals on a Budget cookbook here