Are you ready to elevate your salad game with a burst of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds? Look no further than this Spicy Peanut Kale Salad! In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant, crunchy dish that combines the earthy richness of kale with the creamy, spicy goodness of peanut butter. Perfect as a light meal or a zesty side, this salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Dive into this recipe and discover how a few simple ingredients can create a dish that’s both satisfying and utterly irresistible!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Kale, chopped
- Peanut butter
- Soy sauce
- Rice vinegar
- Maple syrup
- Chili flakes
- Carrots, shredded
- Peanuts, crushed
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the kale. Rinse the kale leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Shake off excess water and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped kale with the shredded carrots. This will add color and crunch to your salad.
- In a separate small bowl, prepare the dressing. Add 1/4 cup of peanut butter, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well combined. If the dressing is too thick, you can add a little water, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Once the dressing is ready, pour it over the kale and carrot mixture. Using your hands or salad tongs, gently massage the dressing into the kale. This helps to soften the kale and ensures that every piece is coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Sprinkle chili flakes over the salad to taste, adjusting the amount based on your spice preference. Toss the salad again to evenly distribute the chili flakes.
- Finally, add the crushed peanuts to the salad for added crunch and flavor. Give the salad a final toss to mix everything together.
- Serve the Spicy Peanut Kale Salad immediately, or let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy this nutritious and delicious salad as a light meal or as a side dish!
Tips
- Kale Preparation: Make sure to massage the kale well with the dressing to help break down its tough fibers. This will make the leaves tender and more enjoyable to eat.
- Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your spice preference. Start with a little and add more until you reach your desired heat.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the kale and dressing in advance and combine them just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crunchy.
- Add Protein: For a more filling meal, consider adding grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas to the salad.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. Keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat to prevent the kale from becoming soggy.
- Garnish: Experiment with additional toppings such as sliced avocado, sesame seeds, or fresh herbs to enhance the flavor and presentation of your salad.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg
