A Refreshing and Flavorful Salad with a Subtle Asian Twist
This kale salad is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy fresh, vibrant greens. With tender, massaged kale as the base, this dish gets a burst of umami flavor from a miso-based dressing, complemented by the sharpness of thinly sliced onion. It’s a simple yet flavorful salad that works perfectly as a light meal or a side dish. The combination of sesame oil, soy sauce, and vinegar gives it a subtle Asian-inspired twist that makes each bite refreshing and satisfying. Even if you’re not usually a kale fan, this recipe might just change your mind!
Instructions
Wash the kale thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. Once washed, chop the kale into bite-sized pieces, removing any tough stems. You want the kale to be tender, so don’t hesitate to remove those tough pieces.
Gather all the additional ingredients.
In a small bowl, combine the sesame oil, soy sauce, miso paste, vinegar, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. The miso paste gives the dressing a rich, umami flavor, while the sesame oil adds depth and the vinegar balances the taste.
Thinly slice the onion (use half if it’s a large onion). The onion’s sharpness will provide a lovely contrast to the rich miso dressing, adding complexity to the salad.
Place the chopped kale into a large mixing bowl, then add the sliced onion and miso dressing. Gently massage the kale with your hands, working the sauce into the leaves until the kale softens slightly and becomes more tender. This step helps to break down the fibers of the kale, making it easier to chew and improving the flavor absorption from the dressing.
Once the kale has softened and the dressing is well-mixed, your salad is ready to serve. Enjoy the kale salad as a refreshing main dish or as a tasty side to complement your meal.
Kale Salad
Ingredients
- 200 g kale, washed and chopped
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp miso paste
- 2 tbsp vinegar
- half large onion (or 1 small onion)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the kale: Wash and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the sauce: Mix sesame oil, soy sauce, miso paste, vinegar, and pepper.
- Slice the onion thinly.
- Add onion and sauce to kale, and gently massage until well mixed.
Tips for Success
- Massage the Kale Well: The key to making kale tender and enjoyable is massaging it well with the dressing. Don’t rush this step—it softens the kale and helps the flavors penetrate, making the salad more flavorful.
- Use Fresh Kale: Fresh kale will yield the best results. If the kale is a little old or wilted, it might not soften as easily when massaged.
- Customize the Dressing: Feel free to tweak the dressing to your taste. For a little sweetness, add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup. You can also adjust the vinegar or soy sauce if you like more tang or saltiness.
- Add Extra Veggies or Toppings: For extra crunch, consider adding toasted sesame seeds, shredded carrots, or sliced cucumbers. A sprinkle of chili flakes or a squeeze of lime juice can also add an extra burst of flavor.
- Let It Sit: Allow the salad to sit for 5-10 minutes after massaging it with the dressing. This gives the flavors time to develop and meld together.
- Meal Prep: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. The kale can hold up to the dressing for a day or two, making it a great option for meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Nutritious and Light: Kale is packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making this salad a great healthy option. It’s light but satisfying, perfect for those who want a nutrient-rich meal or side.
- Flavorful and Unique: The miso-based dressing gives the salad a unique umami depth that transforms the kale, making it more than just a basic leafy green salad.
- Quick and Easy: This salad is incredibly simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal preparation. It’s a great option for a quick lunch or dinner side.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with add-ins like nuts, seeds, or fruit (such as sliced apples or pomegranate seeds) to change up the flavor profile.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This salad keeps well, so it’s great for preparing in advance and enjoying throughout the week. The kale holds up nicely, even after being massaged with the dressing.
- A Unique Twist on Traditional Salad: If you’re looking for a salad that’s different from the typical leafy greens, this one has the perfect balance of freshness, crunch, and flavor with an Asian-inspired twist.
