Bright, refreshing, and completely nut-free, this Zesty Kale Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette is a vibrant dish thatโs perfect for a healthy lunch or side. The tenderized kale leaves are complemented by crisp carrots, sweet red bell peppers, and peppery radishes, while toasted sunflower seeds add a delightful crunch. The homemade citrus vinaigrette, made with freshly squeezed lemon and orange juice, Dijon mustard, and a touch of maple syrup, infuses the salad with tangy sweetness in every bite. This quick and easy recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep. Packed with nutrients and free from nuts, itโs an allergy-friendly option thatโs as wholesome as it is delicious!
Wash and thoroughly dry the kale. Remove the tough stems, chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces, and place them in a large salad bowl.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper to make the citrus vinaigrette.
Pour half of the prepared vinaigrette over the kale. Using clean hands, massage the vinaigrette into the kale leaves for 1โ2 minutes until the leaves become tender and slightly darker in color.
Peel and shred the carrot using a box grater or mandoline. Thinly slice the red bell pepper and radishes into bite-sized strips or rounds.
Add the shredded carrot, sliced bell pepper, and radishes to the salad bowl with the kale.
Sprinkle the sunflower seeds and finely chopped fresh parsley over the salad for added crunch and freshness.
Drizzle the remaining citrus vinaigrette over the salad and toss everything together until well combined.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy your nut-free zesty kale salad!
Calories |
768 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 60.8 g | 78% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.5 g | 42% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1740 mg | 76% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 45.4 g | 17% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.5 g | 55% | |
| Total Sugars | 24.1 g | ||
| Protein | 14.4 g | 29% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 579 mg | 45% | |
| Iron | 6.0 mg | 33% | |
| Potassium | 1482 mg | 32% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.