Imagine a salad so vibrant, refreshing, and packed with flavor that it transforms your perception of healthy food forever. Our Kale Strawberry Avocado Salad with Lemon Poppy Seed Dressing is not just a meal—it's a culinary adventure that promises to tantalize your taste buds while nourishing your body. Combining the robust earthiness of kale, the sweet juiciness of strawberries, and the creamy richness of avocado, this salad is a symphony of textures and tastes that will make you forget you're eating something incredibly nutritious.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Kale, chopped
- Strawberries, sliced
- Avocado, diced
- Lemon juice
- Poppy seeds
- Olive oil
- Honey
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the kale leaves under cool running water, removing any dirt or debris. Pat dry completely using clean kitchen towels or paper towels.
- Remove the tough stems from the kale and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces, creating a uniform texture for the salad base.
- In a large mixing bowl, massage the chopped kale with a small drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Gently massage for 2-3 minutes to soften the leaves and reduce their natural bitterness.
- Wash and hull the strawberries, then slice them into thin, elegant pieces that will distribute evenly throughout the salad.
- Cut the ripe avocado in half, remove the pit, and dice into small, uniform cubes. Sprinkle with a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
- For the dressing, whisk together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, honey, poppy seeds, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a small bowl until well combined and emulsified.
- Add the sliced strawberries and diced avocado to the massaged kale, gently tossing to integrate the ingredients.
- Drizzle the lemon poppy seed dressing over the salad, ensuring even coverage. Toss lightly to coat all ingredients.
- Let the salad sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature, optionally garnishing with additional poppy seeds or a light sprinkle of sea salt.
Tips
- Massage your kale thoroughly to break down its tough fibers and reduce bitterness. This technique makes the leaves more tender and easier to eat.
- Choose ripe but firm avocados to ensure the perfect creamy texture without mushiness.
- Use fresh, in-season strawberries for the most vibrant flavor and sweetness.
- Make the dressing separately and taste before adding to adjust the balance of tanginess and sweetness.
- Let the salad sit for 5 minutes after dressing to allow flavors to meld, but don't let it sit too long to maintain the crisp texture.
- For extra crunch, consider adding toasted nuts like sliced almonds or pine nuts.
- This salad is best served fresh, so prepare just before serving to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
