Kale + Quinoa Salad

Of all the leafy greens out there, KALE is the KING.

A single cup of kale includes the following benefits:

• Vitamin A: 206% of the RDA (from beta-carotene).
• Vitamin K: 684% of the RDA.
• Vitamin C: 134% of the RDA.
• Vitamin B6: 9% of the RDA.
• Manganese: 26% of the RDA.
• Calcium: 9% of the RDA.
• Copper: 10% of the RDA.
• Potassium: 9% of the RDA.
• Magnesium: 6% of the RDA.

I would have to say that is an extreme amount of healthy goodness in one mere cup of the green, don’t you agree? Kale is also very versatile. It can be incorporated into any dish you please, unlike other certain greens. Toss it in pasta, top it on pizza and even make it into a chip.

Have I sold you yet? I sure hope so!

Kale + Quinoa Salad

1 head kale, washed, trimmed and chopped

3/4 cup cooked quinoa (plain or curry works delicious)

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/4 cup crushed walnuts

For the dressing:

1/2 cup olive oil

1/4 cup red wine vinegar

1 teaspoon dijon or honey mustard

salt + cracked pepper to taste

Prepare kale accordingly and transfer to a serving bowl. I know this sounds weird, but lightly massage the greens for a minute or two, this makes them a little more flexible when eating. Add in cooked quinoa, warm or chilled, whichever you prefer. Toss to incorporate.

Top with dried cranberries and crushed walnuts.

In a small bowl whisk together ingredients for dressing.

Serve onto plates and drizzle with dressing.