A Vegetable King Kong Salad is a hearty, healthy, and flavorful dish that is perfect for those who want to enjoy a delicious meal while also getting plenty of nutrients. Bursting with fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients for the Vegetable King Kong Salad
To make this scrumptious salad, gather the following ingredients:
For the salad:
- 2 cups chopped kale, stems removed
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1 cup diced yellow bell pepper
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup roasted sweet potato cubes
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparing the Vegetable King Kong Salad
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious and nutritious Vegetable King Kong Salad:
Step 1: Prepare the vegetables and grains
- Rinse and chop the kale and romaine lettuce, making sure to remove the stems from the kale. Set aside.
- Dice the red and yellow bell peppers, halve the cherry tomatoes, shred the red cabbage, and thinly slice the cucumber. Set aside.
- Cook the quinoa according to the package instructions and let it cool.
- Roast the sweet potato cubes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until tender. Allow them to cool.
Step 2: Make the dressing
- In a small bowl or jar, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lime juice, apple cider vinegar, honey or agave syrup, Dijon mustard, ground cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Whisk or shake until well combined.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
Step 3: Assemble the salad
- In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped kale, romaine lettuce, diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, shredded red cabbage, sliced cucumber, cooked quinoa, and roasted sweet potato cubes.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and green onions.
- Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to a day to allow the flavors to meld together.
Tips for Serving and Storing Your Vegetable King Kong Salad
The Vegetable King Kong Salad is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish. It pairs well with grilled protein such as chicken, fish, or tofu. You can also add some crumbled feta cheese or avocado for added creaminess.
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The dressing can be stored separately in a jar for up to a week.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Vegetable King Kong Salad is a delightful and nutritious meal that is sure to satisfy your taste buds and keep you energized. Packed with an array of colorful vegetables, fiber-rich quinoa, and a tangy dressing, this salad is perfect for those looking for a healthy and tasty option. With its simple preparation and versatility, the Vegetable King Kong Salad is an excellent choice for busy weeknights, potlucks, or picnics. Give it a try and enjoy the vibrant flavors and health benefits of this delicious dish.