Houston’s Kale Salad: A Fresh and Flavorful Delight
Every city has its go-to dish, and Houston’s is definitely the Kale Salad. With a juicy mix of flavors, hearty grains, and a colorful array of vegetables, this salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. This recipe is a modern twist on a classic that captures the city’s vibrant diversity and unique personality.
Have you ever experienced perplexity when trying to decide what to make for dinner on a busy night? We have all been there, and this Kale Salad is an excellent solution. It’s bursting with protein and healthy fats from the kale and quinoa, and the edamame and carrots bring a welcome pop of sweetness. The subtle bitterness of the garlic and shallot dressing really ties it all together for a fresh and flavorful dish. Plus, it comes together quickly, so it’s perfect for weeknight meals.
This Kale Salad is inspired by Houston’s strong Latin American roots. The combination of cilantro and lime juice give it a distinct Latin American flare, while the chile powder and smoked paprika add a smoky depth. The whole dish is rounded out by quinoa, which is an ancient grain that’s more common in Latin American cooking.
Making this salad is easier than you think! Start by whisking together the garlic, shallot, chile powder, smoked paprika, and oil to make the dressing. Then, in a large bowl, combine the kale, quinoa, edamame, carrots, and cilantro. Drizzle the dressing over the top, and you’re ready to enjoy.
This Kale Salad is a great way to celebrate Houston’s culinary culture. If you’re looking for a light yet satisfying meal, or just need a bit of inspiration for your next dinner, give this recipe a try. It’s so fresh and flavorful, you won’t believe how easy it is to make. So go ahead, impress your friends and family with Houston’s Kale Salad!
Ingredients
• 2 bunches of kale, thick stems removed and roughly chopped
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 cup edamame
• 1/2 cup grated carrot
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 shallot, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon chile powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Method
1. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, shallot, chile powder, smoked paprika, olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. In a large bowl, combine kale, quinoa, edamame, carrot and cilantro.
3. Drizzle dressing over salad and toss to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings, if needed.
4. Serve immediately. Enjoy!