Energizing Kale Power Salad

I am writing this from my couch on a Sunday afternoon, it is snowing outside, there is laundry sitting next to me waiting to be folded, and two sweet little baby-dogs napping nearby. Today probably would have been perfect for soup. This is not a soup recipe.

While I strongly believe Sunday’s are the perfect soup day, they are also meal-prep day. The day you prepare all your lunches and little snackies for the work week so you can save money, keep that body tight, and take a few #mealprep pics to turn into instagram gold.

I was inspired to create this recipe by my bank account, which informed me that purchasing a similar salad for $14 and having it delivered to my office on the regular is a not my smartest financial decision. Once I realized how easy it was to recreate, it became all the more appealing.

This salad hits all the notes I’m looking for in a meal prep situation. Hearty kale that can handle a few days in the fridge, zingy lemony dressing, crunchy walnuts, sweet raisins, and feta, because every salad should have at least a little cheese. The quinoa provides carbs and extra protein, and will keep you full for longer than most salads would.

Side-note: this would also be a perfect non-tradish-side-dish for thanksgiving this year, if you’re looking to switch things up.

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Ingredients
1 large bunch kale, stems removed, ripped into bite-sized pieces
2 cups cooked quinoa (1/2 cup uncooked)
1 cup lemon vinaigrette
1 cup golden raisins
1 cup toasted walnuts
1 cup crumbled feta cheese

Directions
In a small saucepan bring 1 cup water to a boil. Rinse 1/2 cup uncooked quinoa in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. Add to boiling water, cover, and simmer over medium-low 12 minutes. remove from heat, fluff with fork, and let sit covered for 15 minutes. allow to cool before combining with other ingredients.

Combine torn kale in a large bowl with a small amount of vinaigrette. use hands to massage kale until it begins to soften. Add quinoa, raisins, walnuts, feta and remaining lemon vinaigrette. Toss to combine. Taste and adjust salt if necessary. Post to Insta and get those #mealprep likes.