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Massaged Kale Salad with Parmesan, Pine Nuts and Pomegranate | @tasteLUVnourish

Massaged Kale Salad with Parmesan, Pine Nuts and Pomegranate

January 9, 2015 By Caroline 8 Comments

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Ahhh, January. That month where I seek out anything green and try to repent for damages done during the holiday season. Let me tell you, I’ve done some damage. This kale salad makes me feel so much better.

Massaged Kale Salad with Parmesan, Pine Nuts and Pomegranate | @tasteLUVnourish

We all know just how nutritious kale can be, but its tough texture can turn some people off. I get it. But, did you know, that just a five minute rub down with some olive oil could turn those tough leaves into a tender and more delicate salad? It’s pretty amazing. The longer you massage, the more the leaves will break down, become soft and actually absorb the flavors of the olive oil and lemon.

Massaged Kale Salad with Parmesan, Pine Nuts and Pomegranate | @tasteLUVnourish

I love the combination of the salty and buttery Parmesan with the freshness of lemon and bursts of juicy pomegranate. You won’t feel like you’re in detox-mode eating this. Besides, it’s just so pretty. Happy New Year!

Massaged Kale Salad with Parmesan, Pine Nuts and Pomegranate | @tasteLUVnourish

Massaged Kale Salad with Parmesan, Pine Nuts and Pomegranate | @tasteLUVnourish

Massaged Kale Salad with Parmesan, Pine Nuts and Pomegranate | @tasteLUVnourish

Massaged Kale Salad with Parmesan, Pine Nuts and Pomegranate | @tasteLUVnourish

Massaged Kale Salad with Parmesan, Pine Nuts and Pomegranate | @tasteLUVnourish

Massaged Kale Salad with Parmesan, Pine Nuts and Pomegranate

You'll love how tender kale can be with this simple method. Vegan friendly and gluten-free.
Serves: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 large bunch kale leaves stripped from stalks and torn
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • juice and zest of one lemon
  • two pinches fine sea salt
  • freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Parmesan grated (omit to keep this vegan)
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts toasted
  • 1/3 cup pomegranate arils

Instructions

  • Spread the kale leaves on your largest baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, lemon and sprinkle on the sea salt. Massage the oil into the leaves for several minutes. The leaves will begin to darken, shrink a bit and soften. Taste test and continue massaging until the leaves have softened to your preference.
  • Top with black pepper, Parmesan shavings, pine nuts and pomegranate arils.
  • This salad keeps well for about two to three days in the fridge without becoming soggy.
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For more inspiration to kick off a healthier and happier New Year…

100 Healthy Tips to Start Your Year Off Light from Cooking Light
15 Winter Activities You Gotta Try from Family Fresh Cooking
What Are Your Goals for 2015? from Say Yes
25 Healthy New Year’s Recipes from A Spicy Perspective
77 Healthy Recipes for 2015 from Brown Eyed Baker

Filed Under: Holiday, Lunch, Salads, Sides, Vegetables Tagged With: easy, extra virgin olive oil, gluten-free, healthy, how to make a massaged kale salad, how to make kale tender, how to massage kale, kale, kale with parmesan, lemon, lunch, massaged kale, massaged kale salad, olive oil, parmesan, pine nuts, pomegranate, recipe, salad, sea salt, the best kale salad, vegan, vegan friendly, vegetables, what to do with kale

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Shelley @ Two Healthy Kitchens

    January 16, 2015 at 8:59 am

    Gorgeous! What a lovely combination of different flavors … and so many nutritious ingredients, too! I just love it! Can’t wait to pin this and share – it truly is just the thing we all need after those over-indulgent holiday splurges! :D

    Reply
    • Caroline Hurley

      January 16, 2015 at 2:24 pm

      Shelley, you are so sweet! Thanks so much for sharing!

      Reply
  2. Joanne

    January 14, 2015 at 11:34 am

    You don’t have to convince me to love the kale salad! I’m right there with you. The bursts of pomegranate in every bite sound so great.

    Reply
    • Caroline Hurley

      January 15, 2015 at 3:21 pm

      Awww…thanks so much, Joanne!

      Reply
  3. Amy @ Elephant Eats

    January 12, 2015 at 2:19 pm

    I’m def more of a cooked kale person, myself, but massaged is the next best thing! This salad sounds delicious…and looks beautiful!

    Reply
    • Caroline Hurley

      January 14, 2015 at 9:46 am

      Thanks so much, Amy! I know what you mean…raw kale can be pretty tough, but massaging makes a huge difference.

      Reply
  4. Katie | Healthy Seasonal Recipes

    January 10, 2015 at 7:05 am

    I have to make this. My body is craving kale right now. Such pretty photos too my dear. Happy new year.

    Reply
    • Caroline Hurley

      January 10, 2015 at 11:34 am

      Mine is too, Katie! Too many holiday cookies for me! :) Thanks, dear friend…Happy new year to you, too!

      Reply

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My name is Caroline. I’m so happy you’re here! I’m a bit obsessed with food, cooking and nutrition. Here you'll find plant-based recipes using seasonal, fresh and whole-food ingredients that are completely decadent and gratifying.

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