Warm Quinoa, Sweet Potato, and Kale Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
- Produce:
- 3 packed cups kale, chopped
- 1 cup pomegranate arils (fresh)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 medium-large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- Condiments:
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
- Pasta & Grains:
- 3 cups cooked quinoa
- Baking & Spices:
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- Freshly cracked pepper (to taste)
- Sea salt (to taste)
- Oils & Vinegars:
- 1 1/2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Drinks:
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- Liquids:
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken stock (or water)
Instructions:
1. Roast the Sweet Potato:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the cubed sweet potato with a little olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika. Spread it in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
2. Cook the Quinoa:
- In a medium pot, bring the vegetable or chicken stock (or water) to a boil. Add the quinoa and reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa has absorbed the liquid and is tender.
- Once done, fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Kale:
- While the quinoa and sweet potato are cooking, remove the tough stems from the kale and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, drizzle the kale with 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil and massage it gently with your hands for a minute or two. This helps to soften the kale and reduce its bitterness.
4. Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, orange juice, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Assemble the Salad:
- In the large bowl with the kale, add the cooked quinoa, roasted sweet potato, red onion, and pomegranate arils.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well mixed.
6. Serve:
- Serve the salad warm, either on its own or as a side dish. Garnish with additional pomegranate arils or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
This Warm Quinoa, Sweet Potato, and Kale Salad is the perfect balance of hearty, healthy ingredients and refreshing flavors. Enjoy!