Zesty Kale Salad with Lemon and Pecorino

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Agnes Mocko (@givingyum)

A fresh, zesty salad featuring kale, lemon, and Pecorino cheese, perfect for a crunchy and cheesy side dish.

Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
5min
Total Time
20min
Zesty Kale Salad with Lemon and Pecorino recipe

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 bowl)

Salad

  • 1bundle
    kale

Dressing

  • 1/2cup
    olive oil
  • 1
    large lemon, juiced
  • 1tbsp
    lemon zest
  • 2clove
    garlic, minced
  • salt and pepper to taste

Toppings

  • 1/4cup
    grated Pecorino cheese
  • 2tbsp
    butter
  • 1/4cup
    panko breadcrumbs
  • pinch
    salt

How to make Zesty Kale Salad with Lemon and Pecorino

Prepare the Kale

  1. Remove any stems from the kale and finely chop it. Add the chopped kale to a large bowl.

Make the Dressing

  1. Mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Salad

  1. Pour the dressing over the kale and massage until the leaves darken and begin to tenderize.

  2. Add grated Pecorino cheese and mix again.

Prepare the Toppings

  1. In a small pan, melt butter and toast panko breadcrumbs until they are golden brown. Add a pinch of salt for flavor.

Serve

  1. Plate the kale salad, add more grated Pecorino on top, some more lemon zest, and pour the golden panko crumbs on top. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

  1. Massage the kale well to ensure it becomes tender and absorbs the dressing.

  2. Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the crunchy texture of the breadcrumbs.

FAQS

  1. How do I properly store leftover Zesty Kale Salad with Lemon and Pecorino?

    To store leftover Zesty Kale Salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It's best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness. Keep the panko breadcrumbs separate until you're ready to serve to maintain their crunch.

  2. Can I make a vegan version of the Zesty Kale Salad with Lemon and Pecorino?

    Yes, you can easily make a vegan version of this salad. Substitute the Pecorino cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Additionally, replace the butter with olive oil or vegan butter when toasting the panko breadcrumbs.

  3. What are some good pairings for Zesty Kale Salad with Lemon and Pecorino?

    This Zesty Kale Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or fish dishes. It also complements pasta meals and can serve as a refreshing side for barbecues or picnics.

  4. What can I use instead of Pecorino cheese in the Zesty Kale Salad?

    If you don't have Pecorino cheese, you can substitute it with Parmesan cheese for a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option.

  5. How do I massage kale for the Zesty Kale Salad?

    To massage kale, simply add the dressing to the chopped kale and use your hands to gently squeeze and rub the leaves. This process helps to break down the tough fibers, making the kale more tender and flavorful.

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