BlackCoffeePinkLips: Kale/Quinoa Salad

I have finally cracked the secret code that ensures your kale salad will be yummy (I know, big claim right?!). My hubby and I have loved kale salads for awhile now, but kale can be super tough so we have always loaded the kale up with lost of yummy toppings and dressing to counteract the toughness. But not any more...I discovered the secret! Lets get real most people probably already do this, but for us, it has totally knocked up our kale salad game to the next level. So here is the "secret"....massage (yes, massage!) the kale and dressing together first with your hands before adding the toppings. I know, it sounds a little weird, but seriously get your hands in there--don't use a spoon or tongs to toss the kale in your dressing--use your hands. Something about massaging the kale and dressing with your hands breaks down the toughness of the kale and it really soaks up the dressing without getting soggy.

This is our current kale salad combination that we have been loving. I make a big batch and the hubby and I eat it for lunch all week. This salad is super versatile, so you can customize it to your taste. Add pine nuts or dried cranberries. Omit the bell pepper or corn. Really the options are endless.

Kale/Quinoa Salad:

Salad:
1 bag chopped kale
2 cups cooked quinoa
1 red bell pepper chopped
1/2 red onion chopped
1/2 cup sweet corn kernels
1 can sliced olives (drained)
6-8 slices bacon (cooked and chopped)
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Dressing:
3 TBS balsalmic vinegar
3 TPS olive oil
salt and pepper to taste

Add the dressing ingredients to the bottom of a large bowl. Then add the bag of kale and massage with your hands till the kale soaks up the dressing and is no longer tough. Next add the remainder of the ingredients and toss till well combined. Serve and enjoy! Like I said, this will last in the fridge for a couple days.