Name: Fresh & Healthy Avocado Lemon Kale Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 cups chopped kale (about 1 large bunch, stems removed); 2 medium ripe avocados (diced); 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small garlic clove (minced); ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste); ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

Description

This Fresh & Healthy Avocado Lemon Kale Salad is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish perfect for a quick, refreshing meal. Featuring tender massaged kale, creamy ripe avocados, and a zesty lemon-garlic dressing, this salad is both delicious and packed with vitamins and healthy fats. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s an ideal option for a light lunch or a side that complements any main course.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad

8 cups chopped kale (about 1 large bunch, stems removed)
2 medium ripe avocados (diced)

Dressing

3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 small garlic clove (minced)
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

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Instructions

Prepare the kale: Wash the kale thoroughly, remove the tough stems, and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Place the kale in a large bowl.
Massage the kale: Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the kale. Massage the mixture with clean hands for 1–2 minutes until the kale darkens and softens noticeably. This helps tenderize the greens for easier eating.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Toss kale with dressing: Pour the dressing over the massaged kale and toss until the leaves are evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
Add avocado: Gently fold in the diced avocado, taking care not to mash it to maintain creamy texture throughout the salad.
Season and serve: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if needed with extra salt or pepper. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors.

Notes

Massaging the kale is crucial for breaking down the fibrous texture, making it softer and more palatable.
Use ripe avocados for the best creamy texture and flavor in the salad.
This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day; however, avocado may brown over time.
To add extra crunch, sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds before serving.
For a vegan and gluten-free dish, this salad fits perfectly without modification.