Looking for a vibrant and nutritious salad that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than the Massaged Kale Salad with Roasted Squash & Chickpeas. This hearty salad combines the earthy taste of kale with the sweetness of roasted squash and the nuttiness of chickpeas, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves thinly sliced
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into cubes
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons water
- Optional toppings: toasted pumpkin seeds, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roast the squash and chickpeas: Place the cubed butternut squash and drained chickpeas on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the chickpeas are crispy.
- Massage the kale: In a large mixing bowl, drizzle the thinly sliced kale with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Using your hands, massage the kale leaves for 2-3 minutes, or until they become tender and wilted.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and water until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the salad: Add the roasted squash and chickpeas to the massaged kale. Drizzle with the tahini dressing and toss gently to combine.
- Add optional toppings: If desired, sprinkle the salad with toasted pumpkin seeds, crumbled feta cheese, or dried cranberries for extra flavor and texture.
- Serve and enjoy: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or individual plates. Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures of this nutritious salad.
Nutritional Facts:
This Massaged Kale Salad with Roasted Squash & Chickpeas is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Kale is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. Butternut squash provides a dose of vitamin A and potassium, while chickpeas add plant-based protein and fiber. Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 300
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 10g
Health Benefits:
- Vitamin-Rich Ingredients: Kale, butternut squash, and chickpeas are all rich in vitamins and minerals essential for overall health, including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.
- Fiber-Packed: This salad is high in fiber, which aids digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
- Heart-Healthy Fats: The tahini-based dressing provides heart-healthy fats, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease and improve cholesterol levels.
- Plant-Based Protein: Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making this salad a great option for vegetarians and vegans looking to meet their protein needs.
Conclusion
The Massaged Kale Salad with Roasted Squash & Chickpeas is a nutritious and delicious option for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying and flavorful salad. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a light main course, this salad is sure to please your taste buds while nourishing your body with essential nutrients.