Name: Greek Kale Salad with Creamy Tahini Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: FOR KALE SALAD:; 8 ox curly green kale; fine sea salt; 15 oz chickpeas; ½ cup kalamata olives; ⅓ cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes; ⅓ cup finely grated Parmesan; ⅓ cup sunflower seeds; ¼ tsp extra-virgin olive oil; For Creamy Tahini Dressing:; ¼ cup tahini; 3 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 1 clove garlic; ½ tsp dijon mustard; ¼ tsp fine sea salt; 2 tbsp water; freshly ground black pepper

This vibrant Greek kale salad with creamy tahini dressing is a wholesome and flavorful dish that combines crunchy textures with rich, savory tastes. Ideal for a lunch or light dinner, this salad is packed with nutritious ingredients that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.

Photos of Greek Kale Salad with Creamy Tahini Dressing Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe might not be commonly found in every household. Be sure to pick up tahini, kalamata olives, and sun-dried tomatoes during your supermarket trip. These unique additions provide authentic Greek flavors and make the salad truly special.

Ingredients For Greek Kale Salad With Creamy Tahini Dressing

Curly green kale: A nutrient-dense leafy green that forms the base of the salad.

Fine sea salt: Used to enhance the natural flavors and for massaging the kale.

Chickpeas: Adds protein and a hearty texture to the salad.

Kalamata olives: Provides a tangy and briny element characteristic of Greek cuisine.

Sun-dried tomatoes: Adds a rich, slightly sweet, and tangy flavor.

Parmesan: Offers a savory and umami taste that complements the other ingredients.

Sunflower seeds: Adds a nutty crunch and extra nutrients.

Extra-virgin olive oil: Used in both the salad and the dressing for a rich, fruity flavor.

Tahini: A creamy sesame paste that forms the base of the dressing.

Lemon juice: Adds brightness and acidity to the dressing.

Garlic: Provides a pungent, aromatic depth to the dressing.

Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor to the dressing.

Water: Used to thin out the dressing to the desired consistency.

Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and accentuates the other flavors.

One reader, Archibald Milam says:

This Greek kale salad with creamy tahini dressing is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The massaged kale is tender and the dressing is perfectly tangy. The toasted sunflower seeds add a wonderful crunch. It's a nutritious and delicious dish that keeps well for days. Highly recommend!

Archibald Milam

Mastering the Art of Kale Salad: Essential Techniques

How to massage kale: Massaging kale involves sprinkling it lightly with salt and scrunching up large handfuls at a time until it's darker and more fragrant. This makes the kale tastier and easier to eat. How to toast sunflower seeds: Toasting sunflower seeds requires combining them with olive oil and a few dashes of salt in a small skillet over medium heat. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often until the seeds are fragrant and turning lightly golden at the edges. How to prepare salad dressing: Preparing the salad dressing involves combining tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, mustard, and salt in a small liquid measuring cup or bowl. Whisk until blended, then add water and whisk until blended. Season generously with fresh black pepper to taste.

How To Make Greek Kale Salad with Creamy Tahini Dressing

Toss a healthy dish with this Greek kale salad made with olives and sun-dried tomatoes in a creamy tahini dressing that captures Mediterranean flavors.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 5 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Kale Salad:

8oxcurly green kale,(1 medium bunch)
fine sea salt
15ozchickpeas,(1 can), rinsed and drained, or 1½ cups cooked chickpeas
½cupKalamata olives,and/or roughly chopped pepper rings, thinly sliced
⅓cupoil-packed sun-dried tomatoes,rinsed and drained
⅓cupfinely grated Parmesan,optional
⅓cupsunflower seeds
¼tspextra-virgin olive oil

For Creamy Tahini Dressing:

¼cuptahini
3tbsplemon juice,(from 1 to 1½ lemons)
1tbspextra-virgin olive oil
1clovegarlic,medium, pressed or minced
½tspDijon mustard
¼tspfine sea salt
2tbspwater
freshly ground black pepper,to taste

Instructions

To prepare the salad, place the chopped kale in a large serving bowl.
Sprinkle it lightly with salt and massage it with hands by scrunching up large handfuls at a time until it’s darker and more fragrant (this makes the kale tastier and easier to eat).
Add the chickpeas, olives and/or pepper rings, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan (if using). Set aside.
To toast the sunflower seeds, combine the seeds with olive oil and a few dashes of salt in a small skillet over medium heat.
Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often until the seeds are fragrant and turning lightly golden at the edges. Pour the toasted seeds into the salad bowl.
To prepare the salad dressing, in a small liquid measuring cup or bowl, combine the tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, mustard, and salt.
Whisk until blended. Add the water and whisk until blended. Season generously with fresh black pepper, to taste.
Pour the dressing into the salad. Toss until the salad is evenly coated with dressing.
Serve immediately. This salad keeps well in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 772.00kcal
Fat: 28.99g
Saturated Fat: 5.16g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.10g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 9.05g
Carbohydrates: 99.85g
Fiber: 25.83g
Sugar: 18.02g
Protein: 41.87g
Cholesterol: 8.43mg
Sodium: 1062.12mg
Calcium: 704.42mg
Potassium: 2356.29mg
Iron: 11.16mg
Vitamin A: 1379.03µg
Vitamin C: 340.05mg

Pro Tip: Massaging Kale for a Tender, Flavorful Salad

When massaging kale, make sure to use a light touch and avoid overworking the leaves. This process helps to break down the fibrous texture, making the kale more tender and palatable. Additionally, the slight bruising from massaging allows the kale to better absorb the flavors of the dressing.

Time-Saving Hacks for Preparing Greek Kale Salad

Pre-wash and chop kale: Wash and chop the kale in advance to save time when assembling the salad.

Use canned chickpeas: Opt for canned chickpeas instead of cooking them from scratch to cut down on prep time.

Pre-toast sunflower seeds: Toast the sunflower seeds ahead of time and store them in an airtight container.

Batch make dressing: Prepare a larger batch of the tahini dressing and store it in the fridge for future use.

Buy pre-grated parmesan: Save time by purchasing pre-grated parmesan instead of grating it yourself.

Substitute Ingredients For Greek Kale Salad with Creamy Tahini Dressing Recipe

curly green kale - Substitute with baby spinach: Baby spinach has a milder flavor and softer texture, making it a good alternative for those who find kale too tough or bitter.
fine sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has a similar taste and can be used in the same quantity, though it may have a slightly coarser texture.
chickpeas - Substitute with cannellini beans: Cannellini beans have a creamy texture and mild flavor, making them a suitable replacement for chickpeas.
kalamata olives - Substitute with black olives: Black olives are less salty and have a milder flavor, which can be a good alternative if you prefer a less intense olive taste.
oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes - Substitute with oven-dried tomatoes: Oven-dried tomatoes can provide a similar concentrated tomato flavor without the added oil.
finely grated parmesan - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor and is a great vegan alternative to parmesan.
sunflower seeds - Substitute with pumpkin seeds: Pumpkin seeds have a similar crunch and nutty flavor, making them a good replacement for sunflower seeds.
extra-virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat profile and a mild flavor, making it a suitable alternative.
tahini - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter provides a creamy texture and nutty flavor, similar to tahini, but with a slightly sweeter taste.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice has a similar acidity and can provide a comparable tangy flavor to lemon juice.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor compared to garlic, making them a good alternative for those who prefer less pungency.
dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard has a similar tangy flavor but with a slightly different texture due to the mustard seeds.
water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can add a bit more flavor compared to plain water, enhancing the overall taste of the dressing.
freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar spiciness but a slightly different flavor profile, which can add a unique twist to the dressing.

Elevate Your Salad Game: Presentation Tips

Use a large, shallow white plate: This will provide a clean canvas to highlight the vibrant colors of the kale and other ingredients.
Create a base layer: Spread the massaged kale evenly across the plate, forming a thin, even layer.
Arrange the chickpeas artfully: Scatter the chickpeas in a visually appealing pattern, ensuring they are evenly distributed but not clumped together.
Add the olives and sun-dried tomatoes: Place the kalamata olives and sun-dried tomatoes strategically around the plate to add pops of color and texture.
Sprinkle the parmesan: Lightly dust the salad with finely grated parmesan, ensuring it is evenly spread to add a subtle, savory flavor.
Top with toasted sunflower seeds: Scatter the toasted sunflower seeds over the salad, adding a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Drizzle the creamy tahini dressing: Using a small spoon or squeeze bottle, drizzle the creamy tahini dressing in a zigzag pattern over the salad to ensure an even coating without overwhelming the presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a few sprigs of fresh parsley or cilantro for a touch of green and a burst of freshness.
Finish with a touch of black pepper: Grind a small amount of freshly ground black pepper over the top to add a final layer of seasoning and visual appeal.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making a Delicious Kale Salad

Large serving bowl: Used to hold and mix the kale salad ingredients together.
Small skillet: Utilized for toasting the sunflower seeds with olive oil and salt.
Small liquid measuring cup: Ideal for combining and measuring the ingredients for the tahini dressing.
Whisk: Essential for blending the tahini dressing ingredients until smooth.
Garlic press: Handy for mincing the garlic clove efficiently.
Knife: Necessary for chopping the kale and any other ingredients that need to be cut.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping and preparing ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out smaller quantities of ingredients like salt, mustard, and olive oil.
Measuring cups: Useful for measuring larger quantities of ingredients such as tahini and lemon juice.
Tongs: Helpful for tossing the salad to ensure even coating with the dressing.
Serving utensils: Used for serving the salad once it is prepared.
Storage container: Necessary for storing any leftover salad in the refrigerator.

Keeping Your Kale Salad Fresh: Storage and Freezing Tips

This kale salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The kale will continue to soften as it sits in the dressing, making it even more delicious and tender.
If you want to prepare the salad ahead of time, you can store the kale, chickpeas, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan separately in the refrigerator. Toast the sunflower seeds and prepare the dressing just before serving, then toss everything together.
To freeze this salad, it's best to store the components separately:
- Wash, chop, and massage the kale with salt, then freeze it in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
- Freeze the chickpeas and olives in separate freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 6 months.
- Store the sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan in the refrigerator, as they don't freeze well.
- Toast the sunflower seeds and prepare the dressing just before serving.
When you're ready to enjoy the salad, thaw the kale, chickpeas, and olives in the refrigerator overnight. Toss all the ingredients together with the freshly prepared dressing and serve.

Surprising Fact About Kale You Might Not Know

A random fact about this recipe is that kale is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in vitamins A, C, and K. Massaging the kale with salt helps to break down its tough fibers, making it more tender and easier to digest.

Budget-Friendly Cooking: Is This Kale Salad Recipe Economical?

The Greek kale salad with creamy tahini dressing is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like kale, chickpeas, and sun-dried tomatoes are affordable and nutritious. The dressing, made from tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil, adds a rich flavor without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $12-$15 USD.

Is This Greek Kale Salad Recipe Healthy?

The Greek kale salad with creamy tahini dressing is a nutritious and well-balanced dish. Here's why:

Kale: This superfood is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants and fiber. Massaging the kale helps to break down its tough texture and make it easier to digest.
Chickpeas: A great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates, chickpeas help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Olives and sun-dried tomatoes: These Mediterranean staples provide healthy fats, which are essential for nutrient absorption and overall health.
Sunflower seeds: Rich in vitamin E, magnesium, and selenium, sunflower seeds add a nutty crunch and a boost of nutrients to the salad.
Tahini dressing: Made with sesame paste, lemon juice, and olive oil, this creamy dressing is a healthier alternative to traditional mayo-based dressings. It's also a good source of healthy fats and adds a delicious, nutty flavor to the salad.

To make this salad even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Swap the parmesan cheese for a sprinkle of nutritional yeast, which is a vegan alternative that's high in B vitamins and protein
Add more colorful vegetables to the salad, such as grated carrots, sliced bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes, to increase the variety of nutrients and antioxidants
Experiment with different types of kale, such as lacinato or red kale, to mix up the texture and flavor profile of the salad
Use a light hand when adding salt to the salad and dressing, as the olives and sun-dried tomatoes already contribute a salty flavor

Editor's Take: Why This Kale Salad Recipe Stands Out

This Greek kale salad with creamy tahini dressing is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors. The massaged kale becomes tender and flavorful, while the chickpeas and kalamata olives add a hearty, savory element. Sun-dried tomatoes and finely grated parmesan provide a rich umami depth. Toasted sunflower seeds introduce a pleasant crunch. The creamy tahini dressing, with its tangy lemon juice and subtle garlic notes, ties everything together beautifully. This salad is not only nutritious but also versatile, making it a perfect addition to any meal. It keeps well, ensuring you can enjoy its vibrant flavors for days.

Enhance Your Greek Kale Salad with Creamy Tahini Dressing Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Hummus with Pita Chips: Imagine dipping crispy pita chips into a velvety roasted garlic hummus. The creamy texture and robust garlic flavor will perfectly complement the Greek kale salad, making each bite a harmonious blend of Mediterranean goodness.

Lemon Herb Quinoa: Picture a fluffy bed of quinoa infused with lemon zest and fresh herbs. This light and zesty side dish will add a refreshing contrast to the hearty kale salad, making your meal feel like a Mediterranean feast.

Stuffed Grape Leaves: Envision tender grape leaves stuffed with a savory mixture of rice, pine nuts, and fresh herbs. These delightful bites will bring an authentic Greek touch to your meal, enhancing the flavors of the kale salad with their unique taste and texture.

Grilled Halloumi Cheese: Think of golden-brown slices of halloumi cheese sizzling on the grill, their salty and slightly tangy flavor providing a delightful contrast to the creamy tahini dressing. This Mediterranean delight will add a touch of indulgence to your kale salad experience.

Baklava Bites: Visualize ending your meal with sweet, flaky baklava bites. These mini desserts are filled with layers of phyllo dough, honey, and crushed nuts, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch to round off your Greek-inspired feast.

Discover More Delightful Kale Salad Variations

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A vibrant mix of quinoa, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, and fresh herbs, all tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette.

Roasted Vegetable and Farro Salad: A hearty salad featuring roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini, combined with nutty farro and a tangy balsamic dressing.

Spinach and Strawberry Salad: A refreshing combination of baby spinach, fresh strawberries, goat cheese, and candied pecans, drizzled with a sweet and tangy poppy seed dressing.

Lentil and Beet Salad: A nutritious blend of cooked lentils, roasted beets, arugula, goat cheese, and walnuts, dressed with a simple red wine vinaigrette.

Chickpea and Avocado Salad: A creamy and satisfying salad featuring chickpeas, avocado, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice, perfect for a quick and healthy meal.

From Start to Finish: Appetizers and Desserts to Elevate Your Kale Salad Experience

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers: Delight your guests with stuffed mini bell peppers. These vibrant, bite-sized treats are filled with a creamy mixture of goat cheese, herbs, and a hint of lemon zest. The sweetness of the peppers perfectly complements the tangy filling, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped chives for an added touch of freshness and color. These are perfect for a light and refreshing start to any meal.

Bruschetta With Tomato And Basil: Transport your taste buds to Italy with bruschetta with tomato and basil. This classic appetizer features crusty baguette slices topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. The combination of juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil creates a burst of flavor in every bite. Finish with a sprinkle of sea salt and a dash of balsamic glaze for an irresistible appetizer that will leave your guests craving more.

Desserts:

Baklava: Indulge in the rich layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and honey syrup. This Mediterranean delight offers a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch, making it an ideal companion to your Greek kale salad. The cinnamon and clove-spiced syrup infuse the dessert with aromatic warmth, while the buttery layers provide a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt for an added touch of creaminess.

Galaktoboureko: Experience the creamy, custard-filled delight of Galaktoboureko. This traditional Greek dessert features a luscious semolina custard encased in crispy phyllo pastry, all drenched in a fragrant lemon-honey syrup. The contrast between the silky custard and the crunchy phyllo creates a textural symphony that pairs beautifully with the savory notes of your Greek kale salad. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds a final touch of spice and warmth.

Why trust this Greek Kale Salad with Creamy Tahini Dressing Recipe:

This Greek kale salad with creamy tahini dressing is a nutritious and flavorful dish that combines the hearty texture of kale with the rich taste of tahini. The addition of chickpeas, kalamata olives, and sun-dried tomatoes provides a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The parmesan and toasted sunflower seeds add a satisfying crunch. This recipe is easy to follow and has been tested for deliciousness and balance, ensuring a delightful meal every time.

Share your thoughts on this delicious Greek Kale Salad with Creamy Tahini Dressing recipe in the Healthy Eating forum section.

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of kale for this salad?

Absolutely! You can use any type of kale you prefer, such as lacinato (dinosaur) kale. Just make sure to massage it well to soften it up.

How do I store the leftover salad?

You can store the leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld together nicely over time.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it.

What can I use instead of sunflower seeds?

If you don't have sunflower seeds, you can use other nuts or seeds like pumpkin seeds, almonds, or pine nuts. Just toast them the same way.

Is there a substitute for tahini in the dressing?

If you don't have tahini, you can use almond butter or cashew butter as a substitute. It will give a slightly different flavor but still be delicious.