Ingredients and Weight:
- Quinoa: 1 cup
- Kale: 1 bunch (about 8 oz)
- Red onion: 1 small (about 4 oz)
- Feta cheese: 4 oz
- Extra virgin olive oil: 3 tbsp
- Lemon juice: 2 tbsp
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Fresh herbs (such as basil or oregano): to garnish
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including quinoa cooking time)
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Prepare quinoa according to package directions. Let it cool.
- In the meantime, wash and dry the kale. Remove the tough stems and cut the leaves into thin strips.
- Slice the red onion thinly.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, kale, and red onion.
- Crumble the feta cheese over the salad.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
- Garnish with fresh herbs.
- Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
- Serve immediately.
Nutritional Information:
(Per serving, assuming 8 servings total)
- Calories: About 250 calories per serving (depending on seasoning and preparation)
- Protein: About 9 grams
- Fat: About 13 grams (most of which is from healthy fats)
- Carbohydrates: About 30 grams
- Fiber: About 4 grams
Dish Characteristics:
- Healthy and hearty, with a good balance of protein, fat, and carbs.
- Quinoa provides a crunchy contrast to the tender kale leaves.
- Feta cheese adds a salty, creamy note to the overall flavor profile.
- Fresh herb garnish enhances the flavor and adds a pop of color to the dish.
User Comments:
- "Love the combination of quinoa and kale! This salad is hearty and filling."
- "The dressing was delicious and added a great finishing touch to the salad."
- "I added some diced apples to the salad for a fruity contrast, it was a great addition."
- "This is a great dish for a light meal or as a side dish for a larger meal."
- "I used different types of cheese, such as parmesan or blue cheese, in place of feta, and it was still delicious."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Make sure to wash the kale thoroughly to remove any impurities or residue from the stems.
- Adjust seasoning according to personal preference, adding more lemon juice or olive oil if desired.
- Quinoa should be cooked according to package directions to ensure proper texture and flavor. Overcooking may result in a sticky texture.
