Description
Hearty lacinato kale is the base for this supremely easy salad. The mild lettuce is simply torn and tossed with fiber-rich farro, smooth avocado and tart green apple, plus some fresh feta cheese. Mix in equal parts lemon juice and olive oil for a quick dressing and serve—or add a grilled chicken breast on top for a protein boost.
Ingredients
2 bunches lacinato kale (Tuscan kale), cleaned and trimmed
1 cup farro
1 green apple, cored and diced
1 avocado, sliced
1–2 tablespoons feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
Sea salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
5 oz grilled chicken, optional
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
- Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Set aside for later use.
Step 2: Prepare the Kale
- Chop the kale into bite-sized pieces, removing the tough stems.
- Wash and dry thoroughly, then place in a large salad bowl.
Step 3: Prep the Apple and Avocado
- Dice the green apple into small bite-sized pieces.
- Slice the avocado thinly.
- Add both to the bowl with the kale.
Step 4: Cook the Farro
- Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Stir in the farro, reduce heat, and let simmer for 30–40 minutes, until the grains are tender but chewy.
- Drain any excess water and allow the farro to cool slightly.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
- Add the warm farro to the salad bowl.
- Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese.
Step 6: Add the Dressing & Toss
- Drizzle half of the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Taste and add more dressing if needed.
- Sprinkle with sea salt and additional black pepper if desired.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Divide into four bowls and serve immediately.
- Optional: Top with grilled chicken for extra protein.
Notes
Kale Massage Hack: If your kale is too tough, massage it with a little olive oil and lemon juice before mixing. This will soften the leaves.
Farro Alternatives: Substitute quinoa, bulgur, or brown rice if farro isn’t available.
Serving Temperature: The warmth of the farro slightly wilts the kale, enhancing flavor and texture.
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu for extra protein.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Salad
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 250g
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 10mg