Name: Kale, Clementine and Feta Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: FOR KALE SALAD:; 1 bunch kale; 1 avocado; 1 medium pomegranate; 4 clementines; 4 small radishes; handful fresh cilantro; ⅓ cup feta; ¼ cup pepitas; For Honey-Lime Dressing:; 3 tbsp fresh lime juice; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium jalapeño; 2 tsp honey; 1 tsp dijon mustard; ¼ tsp chili powder; ⅛ tsp fine grain sea salt

A vibrant and refreshing salad, this kale, clementine and feta salad is not only visually appealing but also packed full of nutrients. The sweetness of the clementines, the creaminess of the feta and the crunchiness of the kale create a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The tangy honey-lime dressing adds an extra layer of complexity to this delicious salad, making it a sure hit at any gathering.

Photos of Kale, Clementine and Feta Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing Recipe

The ingredients used in this recipe are fairly common, however, one ingredient that you may not typically have at home is the pepitas. Pepitas are pumpkin seeds that have been roasted and can usually be found in the nuts and seeds aisle of your local grocery store. They add a delightful crunch to the salad. Another ingredient to look out for is the clementines. They are a variety of mandarin oranges and are sweet and juicy. They can be found in the produce section, usually near the oranges.

Kale, Clementine and Feta Salad Ingredients

Kale: Kale is a nutrient-dense leafy green that is high in vitamins A, C, and K. It adds a nice crunch and color to the salad.

Avocado: Avocado adds creaminess and is a source of healthy fats.

Pomegranate: Pomegranate seeds provide a pop of sweetness and color.

Clementines: Clementines add a burst of citrus flavor and sweetness.

Radishes: Radishes provide a crisp texture and a peppery flavor.

Cilantro: Cilantro adds a fresh and aromatic flavor.

Feta: Feta is a tangy and creamy cheese that complements the other flavors in the salad.

Pepitas: Pepitas add a toasty crunch and are a good source of protein.

Lime: Lime juice provides acidity to balance out the sweetness in the dressing.

Olive oil: Olive oil is used as the base for the dressing.

Jalapeño: Jalapeño adds a spicy kick to the dressing.

Honey: Honey adds a touch of natural sweetness to the dressing.

Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard adds tanginess to the dressing.

Chili powder: Chili powder adds a bit of heat and depth of flavor to the dressing.

Sea salt: Sea salt enhances the flavors of the salad and dressing.

One reader, Godart Titus says:

This kale, clementine, and feta salad with honey-lime dressing is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The tangy clementines, creamy avocado, and zesty dressing make every bite a delight. It's a refreshing and nutritious dish that I can't get enough of!

Godart Titus

Techniques Required for Making Kale, Clementine and Feta Salad

How to prepare the kale salad: This involves removing the stems and chopping the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Then, massaging the kale with a pinch of sea salt until the leaves are darker in color and fragrant.

How to make the honey-lime dressing: Whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, finely chopped jalapeño, honey, Dijon mustard, chili powder, and sea salt in a small bowl until well combined.

How to toast the pepitas: Toast the pepitas in a skillet over medium-low heat for a few minutes, stirring frequently, until they become fragrant and toasty. Then, transfer them to the salad bowl.

How To Make Kale, Clementine and Feta Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing

Treat yourself with this stunning feta salad tossed in honey-lime dressing that will surely get that body ready for a beach trip. Thank us later. *wink*

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 5 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Kale Salad:

1bunchkale
1avocado,diced
1medium pomegranate,arils removed, or a handful of dried cranberries
4clementines,peeled and sliced into rounds or small strips
4small radishes,sliced into thin rounds and then into skinny strips
handfulfresh cilantro,chopped
⅓cupfeta,crumbled
¼cuppepitas,(pumpkin seeds), or sunflower seeds

For Honey-Lime Dressing:

3tbspfresh lime juice,about 2 small limes
3tbspolive oil
1medium jalapeño,membranes and seeds removed, finely chopped
2tsphoney,or agave nectar
1tspDijon mustard
¼tspchili powder
⅛tspfine grain sea salt

Instructions

Make the dressing by whisking together all of the ingredients in a small bowl; set aside.
Prepare the kale by slicing out the stems and chopping out the leaves into small, bite-sized pieces. Transfer the kale to a big salad bowl.
Sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt over the kale and massage the leaves with your hands by lightly scrunching big handfuls at a time, until the leaves are darker in color and fragrant.
Drizzle salad dressing, to the desired amount, over the kale and toss well so the kale is lightly coated with dressing.
Add the prepared avocado, pomegranate (or dried cranberries), clementines, radishes, cilantro, and feta to the bowl.
Toast the pepitas in a skillet over medium-low heat for a few minutes, stirring frequently, until they smell fragrant and toasty. Transfer the pepitas to the salad bowl.
Toss the salad to combine and serve.

Recipe Notes

To make it vegan, substitute the feta with agave nectar for the dressing.
This salad should keep well in the refrigerator, covered, for a couple of days.

Nutrition

Calories: 380.02kcal
Fat: 25.28g
Saturated Fat: 5.11g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 14.18g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.77g
Carbohydrates: 36.80g
Fiber: 10.11g
Sugar: 21.83g
Protein: 9.18g
Cholesterol: 11.13mg
Sodium: 235.56mg
Calcium: 182.35mg
Potassium: 903.15mg
Iron: 2.21mg
Vitamin A: 285.09µg
Vitamin C: 117.50mg

Technique Tip for Preparing Kale, Clementine and Feta Salad

When massaging the kale, it's important to be gentle yet firm. This process helps to break down the tough cell structure and gives the kale a softer texture and a more mellow flavor. It also makes the nutrients more bioavailable. However, over-massaging can lead to wilted and soggy leaves. Aim for the leaves to be slightly softened and darker in color, but still retaining some of their crispness.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Salad Recipe

Prep ahead: Wash and chop the kale, and prepare the dressing in advance to save time when assembling the salad.

Use pre-cut ingredients: Consider using pre-cut fruits and vegetables to minimize prep time and make the recipe more convenient.

Multi-task: While toasting the pepitas, you can also prepare other components of the salad to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Organize your workspace: Before you start, make sure all your ingredients and tools are easily accessible to streamline the cooking process.

Invest in a good knife: A sharp, quality knife can make chopping and slicing ingredients quicker and more efficient.

Substitute Ingredients For Kale, Clementine and Feta Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing Recipe

kale - Substitute with swiss chard: Swiss chard has a similar texture and flavor to kale, making it a great substitute in salads.
clementines - Substitute with mandarins: Mandarins have a similar sweet and tangy flavor to clementines, and can be used interchangeably in salads.
feta - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese has a tangy and creamy flavor similar to feta, and can be used as a substitute in salads for a similar taste and texture.

Presentation Tips for Kale, Clementine and Feta Salad

Elevate the kale: Gently massage the kale leaves with a touch of olive oil to enhance their texture and flavor.
Artful arrangement of clementines: Segment the clementines and arrange them in a visually appealing manner to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Garnish with pomegranate arils: Sprinkle the vibrant pomegranate arils over the salad to provide a burst of juicy sweetness and a delightful visual contrast.
Avocado rose: Skillfully carve the avocado into a delicate rose shape to add an elegant and sophisticated touch to the presentation.
Feta crumble: Crumble the feta cheese over the salad with precision, ensuring an even distribution of its creamy and tangy flavor throughout the dish.
Pepitas sprinkle: Sprinkle the toasted pepitas over the salad, adding a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to each bite.
Jalapeño slice: Thinly slice the jalapeño and strategically place it on the salad for a hint of heat and a visually striking element.
Cilantro sprigs: Place fresh cilantro sprigs on the salad, adding a pop of vibrant green and a hint of herbal aroma to the dish.
Dress with finesse: Drizzle the honey-lime dressing over the salad in an artistic manner, ensuring each component is lightly coated and glistening with flavor.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Salad

Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing various ingredients.
Salad bowl: A large bowl used for mixing and serving salads.
Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending and mixing ingredients together.
Small bowl: Used for preparing and mixing smaller amounts of ingredients or dressings.
Skillet: A frying pan with a flat bottom and sloping sides, used for sautéing and frying ingredients.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients.
Juicer: Used for extracting juice from fruits such as clementines or limes.
Measuring spoons: Utensils used to measure small amounts of ingredients accurately.
Mixing spoon: A long-handled spoon used for mixing and stirring ingredients.
Serving platter: A large, flat dish used for serving salads or other dishes.

Random Fact About Kale, Clementine and Feta Salad

The combination of kale, clementine, and feta in this salad provides a rich source of vitamins and minerals. Kale is packed with antioxidants, clementines are a great source of vitamin C, and feta cheese offers calcium and protein. This salad is not only delicious but also provides a healthy dose of essential nutrients.

Is Making This Salad at Home Cost-Effective?

This kale, clementine and feta salad with honey-lime dressing is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are mostly affordable and widely available, making it a budget-friendly option. The combination of kale, clementines, and feta provides a good balance of nutrients and flavors. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, depending on the availability and pricing of the ingredients. Overall Verdict: 8/10

Is This Kale Salad Healthy or Unhealthy?

This kale, clementine, and feta salad with honey-lime dressing is a nutritious and well-balanced dish. The salad is packed with:

Vitamins A, C, and K from the kale
Healthy fats from the avocado and olive oil
Antioxidants from the pomegranate and clementines
Fiber from the vegetables and fruits
Protein from the feta cheese and pepitas

The honey-lime dressing adds a zesty and slightly sweet flavor without relying on excessive amounts of sugar or unhealthy fats.

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

Use a reduced-fat feta cheese to lower the overall fat content
Increase the amount of kale to boost the fiber and nutrient density of the salad
Add a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken or quinoa, to make it a more complete meal
Reduce the amount of honey in the dressing to minimize added sugars, or substitute it with a natural sweetener like stevia
Include a variety of colorful vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, to increase the antioxidant content and visual appeal of the dish

Editor's Thoughts on This Refreshing Kale Salad

The combination of hearty kale, sweet clementines, tangy feta, and crunchy pepitas in this salad creates a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The honey-lime dressing adds a zesty and refreshing touch, elevating the overall taste. The addition of avocado and pomegranate provides a creamy and juicy element, while the radishes and cilantro contribute a subtle peppery and fresh note. This salad is not only visually appealing but also a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. It's a delightful and nutritious dish that is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Enhance Your Kale, Clementine and Feta Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for pairing with the tangy kale salad.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and topped with a zesty lemon zest, a refreshing side to accompany the kale salad.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts coated in a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, adding a burst of flavor to your meal.

Honey Roasted Carrots: Tender carrots roasted to perfection with a drizzle of honey, providing a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors of the kale salad.

Alternative Salad Recipes Similar to This One

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl: This hearty and nutritious bowl is packed with roasted vegetables, protein-rich quinoa, and a flavorful tahini dressing.

Mango Chicken Lettuce Wraps: These refreshing and light lettuce wraps are filled with juicy mango, tender chicken, and a zesty lime dressing for a burst of tropical flavors.

Butternut Squash Soup with Apple and Sage: Warm up with this comforting and creamy butternut squash soup, infused with the sweetness of apple and the earthy aroma of sage for a perfect fall dish.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for This Kale Salad Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. These bite-sized delights are the perfect way to kick off any meal.

Bruschetta: Indulge in the classic Italian appetizer of bruschetta, featuring toasted bread topped with a vibrant mixture of tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil. This refreshing dish is sure to awaken your taste buds.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why trust this Kale, Clementine and Feta Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a refreshing and satisfying choice for any occasion. The vibrant kale provides a hearty base, while the juicy clementines and tangy feta cheese add a burst of contrasting flavors. The honey-lime dressing brings a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, enhancing the overall taste. With the addition of avocado, pomegranate, and pepitas, this salad offers a nutritious and colorful ensemble. The careful selection of fresh ingredients and the well-crafted dressing ensure a delightful culinary experience.

Have you tried this Kale, Clementine and Feta Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing Recipe? Share your experience, tips, or any tweaks you made in the Healthy Eating forum!

FAQ:

Can I substitute kale with a different type of greens?

Yes, you can substitute kale with other greens like spinach, arugula, or mixed salad greens. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Can I make the salad dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good shake before using it.

What can I use as a substitute for pepitas?

If you don't have pepitas, you can use chopped almonds, sunflower seeds, or even pine nuts as a substitute for a similar crunch and nutty flavor.

Can I omit the jalapeño from the dressing if I don't like spicy food?

Of course! If you prefer a milder dressing, you can omit the jalapeño or reduce the amount to suit your taste. You can also remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño for a milder flavor.

Can I prepare the salad in advance?

While the kale holds up well with the dressing, it's best to add the avocado and clementines just before serving to prevent them from browning. You can prepare the other components in advance and assemble the salad right before serving for the best results.