Kale and Quinoa Veggie Bowl

I was inspired by some delicious kale recipes posted recently–so inspired that I came home from the market with an absolutely giant bushel of kale. I’ve been turned off by wimpy leafy greens lately and kale is such a fantastic option. Problem was, I always though I needed to cook it in some way to soften if for a salad.

3 words…

Massage. Your. Kale.

A whole new world of kale has just emerged for me. One where I don’t crank my oven up to 400 degrees on a summer day. I massaged my kale for just 3-5 minutes with some EVOO and the texture was perfect for my taste. I added quinoa to my salad because I like a salad that can stand alone as a meal, and protein packed quinoa nutritiously is a great addition–I also enjoy the texture of quinoa in my salads. I decided to add chopped cucumber, yellow peppers, and halved cherry tomatoes (they were super sweet).  Plain, or topped with goat cheese, or an avocado dressing, this salad is a delicious and nutritious summer staple.

I made a lot, partly because of the aforementioned giant bushel of kale, but also because I love making recipes like this to have as a ‘go to’ meal everyday. I’m also not opposed to this being recreated and Kale & Quinoa Veggie Pizza, or a Kale & Quinoa Veggie Wrap. Be creative, be healthy, be happy 🙂

This post is linked up with Annmarie at The Fit Foodie Mama for Foodie Friday–yum!

What’s your favorite ‘go to’ meal?

Do you massage your kale?