Kale and Quinoa Greek Salad

By the Gracious Vegan

This salad has the taste of a Greek salad but is much healthier. The quinoa and lentils pack it with protein, while the two of them plus the kale offer a lot of fiber. Tahini substitutes for oil, which brings the fat content down and adds protein and micronutrients. But apart from all these benefits, it tastes great. I recommend green or black lentils because they don’t break down and dissolve like brown lentils. 

Makes 6 cups

Place the lentils in a saucepan and cover by 2 inches of water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer 20-25 minutes until tender. Strain and set aside.

• 1/2 cup French (du Puy, green) lentils or black (beluga) lentils 

While the lentils are cooking, make the quinoa. Cook them however you like. One method is to place quinoa in a small saucepan with 1 cup water. Bring to a boil, cover and simmer until all water is absorbed, about 12 minutes. Remove from heat, keep the lid on and let sit another 2-3 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

• 1/2 cup quinoa

Once the lentils and quinoa have cooled a little, place them in a medium-large bowl with the following ingredients and stir gently.

• 3-4 ounces kale (any kind) (3-4 large leaves), chopped and massaged (3-4 cups) or processed into smaller bits in the food processor 

• 1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

• 1/3 cup Greek black (Kalamata) olives, pitted and halved (or chopped)

Whisk together the dressing ingredients with a fork or in a smaller chopper appliance. Toss the dressing with the salad and serve at room temperature or chilled. 

• 3 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 2 Tablespoons tahini

• 2 Tablespoons water

• 2 teaspoons dried oregano

• 3/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Timing: About 40 minutes

Gluten-free