How to Make a Mexican Kale Salad

If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the vibrant flavors of Mexico with the health benefits of kale, look no further than a Mexican kale salad. This salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it's also packed with vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients. Here’s how to make a refreshing Mexican kale salad that will tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients You'll Need

To prepare a delightful Mexican kale salad, gather the following fresh ingredients:

  • 1 bunch of kale, preferably Lacinato or curly kale
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 jalapeño, diced (adjust based on your spice preference)
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • ¼ cup cilantro, chopped

For the Dressing

For an authentic Mexican flavor, you’ll need the following ingredients for the dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Mexican kale salad:

  1. Prepare the Kale: Remove the tough stems from the kale leaves and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Rinse the kale thoroughly under cold water to clean it. Use a salad spinner to dry the leaves or pat them with a clean kitchen towel.
  2. Massage the Kale: To make the kale more tender, place the chopped leaves in a large bowl. Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Massage the kale with your hands for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes softer and darker in color.
  3. Add the Ingredients: To the massaged kale, add the halved cherry tomatoes, corn, diced avocado, red onion, jalapeño, black beans, and chopped cilantro. Toss everything together gently to combine.
  4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey (or agave), cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Combine Salad and Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to ensure all ingredients are coated with the zesty mixture. Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  6. Serve: Enjoy your Mexican kale salad as a side dish or a light meal. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a vegetarian plate!

Final Thoughts

This Mexican kale salad is not only visually appealing but also an excellent way to enjoy a healthy, filling meal. Packed with colorful veggies and wholesome ingredients, it’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a potluck. Try making this salad your own by adding your favorite toppings, such as crumbled cheese, pumpkin seeds, or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness!

Enjoy the freshness of this kale salad that celebrates the flavors of Mexico, and don’t forget to share your creation with family and friends!