Say hello to your new favorite lunch, Marinated Kale Salad with BBQ Salmon! It is so savory, fresh and a great way to get your daily dose of greens in while enjoying them too!

Kale has become my go-to choice for leafy greens, especially in salads, and for good reason! Not only is it packed with health benefits—think antioxidants, an abundance of vitamins and beta-carotene to name a few. But, it also supports eye health, weight management, heart health, and more. Its plentiful amount of micronutrients and antioxidants makes it one of the most nutritious greens on the market. In addition to all of its health benefits, I personally adore its texture, especially when properly marinated and dressed, it's simply perfection!

Now, you might be wondering why we marinate kale and how we marinate Kale. If you are, then you’ve come to the right place.

How to Marinate Kale and Why:

Venturing on the journey of marinating your kale may lead to a newfound obsession. This essential step in salad preparation when utilizing this leafy green is remarkably simple yet yields incredibly flavorful and tender leaves, plus you will be surprised at how easy it is to master!

Start by gently pulling the leaves off the stems, either by hand or with a knife, although I prefer the hands-on approach for a more personalized leaf size. I like my kale leaves to be medium to large rather than finely chopped for that extra texture. Afterward, give them a thorough wash, whether you prefer using a trusty salad spinner like the OXO or just rinsing them under cold water. Make sure to remove any stubborn dirt or debris. Once clean, give them a gentle pat dry and transfer them to your favorite salad bowl.

Now, it's time to dive into the marinating and massaging process! I rely on three key ingredients to achieve the best flavor and tenderize those tough kale leaves: truffle salt, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and high-quality olive oil. This trio packs a punch when combined, ensuring a delicious outcome.

Kale, known for its robust and fibrous leaves, can be a bit challenging to digest and chew if not properly marinated. To avoid any toughness, it's crucial to thoroughly coat the leaves with the marinade. Instead of relying on salad tongs, I recommend using your hands to really work the ingredients into every nook and cranny of the kale. Embrace the messiness - it's all part of the magic!

Once everything is well combined, pop the bowl into the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the kale to tenderize and chill, resulting in delightfully crisp, juicy, and tender leaves - an absolute delight!

Additional Ingredients in the Salad:

When it comes to selecting ingredients for the salad, I've found that keeping things simple really lets their natural flavors shine through, making it super fresh and organic. I wanted each component to complement the marinated kale without overpowering it, so I opted for grape tomatoes, canned chickpeas, and cooked farro. These choices offer a mix of textures and flavors that enhance the overall dish without stealing the spotlight from the kale.

As for the protein, I went with BBQ salmon because its savory flavor pairs perfectly with the tanginess of the lemon juice and the subtle truffle notes from the salt. It's like a flavor explosion that just works! Of course, you're welcome to switch things up with chicken, shrimp, or even skip the protein altogether. The chickpeas already provide a good source of protein, so you won't miss out on any nutrition. It's all about making it your own and enjoying every bite!

Did you make this? If so, make sure to tag and follow @prettyplatebymichelle on instagram and tiktok or leave a comment below and let me know what you think! I would love to see your Pretty Plate and hear from you!