Quinoa & Kale Harvest Salad

One of my favorite things about the holidays is creating in the kitchen with seasonal ingredients. I like to take a healthy spin on things without sacrificing flavor!

Although the base of this is Quinoa, it can also be made with brown or wild rice as an alternative. 

INGREDIENTS: 

• 2 cups cooked Quinoa 
• 2 cups roasted butternut squash, cut into 1" cubes (by it pre-cut for a time saver) 
• 1 bag baby kale, stems removed 
• 2 cups diced zucchini (peeled)
• 1 C pomegranate seeds 
• 1/2-2/3 C Feta Cheese 
• 1/2 C thinly sliced basil 
• 1 TB avocado oil

DRESSING:

• 2 TBS avocado oil 
• 2 TB balsamic vinegar 
• 1 TB coconut sugar 
• 2 cloves garlic 

Directions: 

Cook Quinoa in rice cooker- substitute water for chicken broth for a rich, nutty flavor (optional). 

Roast Squash on a cookie sheet @415 for 30-35 minutes until browned. I spray my squash w/ coconut oil spray, or drizzle lightly with coconut oil. 

In a large skillet, sauce kale & zucchini in olive oil, sprinkle w/ salt & pepper. 

Once the above is complete, mix ingredients together and add in cheese, pomegranate seeds, basil. 

For the dressing, blend in blender and pout over salad. 

*This salad feeds a village! Or, one hungry family of 5. We loved having the leftovers. 

Enjoy! 

XOXO, 

Abby

~Kitchen Sink Chopped Salad~

To open this post, I think you all need to head on over and purchase this. They make my salads 10x better. A little of everything in every bite! 

On to the details of this salad:

I eat this most days for lunch. Always a huge dose of greens (spinach, kale) and the veggies vary depending on what's on hand. Below is one of my favorite combinations. But, be creative with your additions! 

INGREDIENTS: 

• 2-3 large handful greens 
• 1 red pepper, diced 
• 1 medium zucchini, diced 
• 1 large carrot, diced 
• 1/4 small purple onion 
• 1/2 avocado
• 3 oz favorite deli turkey (or preferred protein)
• 1-2 grated parmesan cheese 

DRESSING: 

• 1 TB Trader Joe's champagne Vinaigrette 
• 1/2 TB balsamic Vinegar 
• 1/2 tsp minced garlic 
• Juice of 1 lemon 
• sprinkle of Tajin seasoning

Mix all ingredients in large bowl, and chop, chop, chop! This is a very large serving, but I tend to eat it all! Feel free to share. 

XOXO, 

Abby