Southern cooking might be famous for fried chicken, biscuits, and gravy, but let me tell you, this Kale Salad with Lemon and Parmesan earns its place at the table. It’s bright, fresh, and full of flavor with just the right Southern twist.
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This salad combines the earthiness of kale, the zesty kick of lemon, and the creamy richness of Parmesan in a way that keeps everyone coming back for more. I love pairing it with a hot bowl of soup or a grilled pork chop, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
A Southern food classic
Growing up in the South, my plate was always full of comfort food. But every so often, especially during spring or summer, my mama would toss together a fresh salad to balance out a big meal. She loved using what we had on hand from the garden, and kale was always her favorite green. This Kale Salad with Lemon and Parmesan reminds me of those long days when the table was full, the iced tea was cold, and everyone had stories to share.
I learned early on that Southern food isn’t just about rich flavors; it’s about love and togetherness. This simple salad brings both. It’s not fancy, but it’s honest, fresh, and good, just like Southern cooking should be.
Ingredients
How to make Kale Salad with Lemon and Parmesan
Start by chopping the kale and placing it in a large bowl. This makes it easier to break down the leaves when you massage in the dressing. To make the dressing, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, honey, and mustard with a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour it over the kale, then use your hands to gently rub it in. This softens the leaves and brings out their flavor.
After the kale feels tender, toss in grated Parmesan and toasted almonds. This gives the salad a rich crunch and nutty flavor. Serve it up fresh and garnish with a bit of lemon zest for a burst of brightness.
Serving suggestions
This salad makes a great side dish for heavier meals like fried catfish, barbecue ribs, or even a Sunday roast. I also love it with a bowl of creamy tomato soup or beside a slice of cornbread. If you’re putting together a Southern picnic, this dish travels well and adds a refreshing touch to the spread.
You can make it ahead, and it holds up beautifully thanks to the kale. Just give it a quick toss before serving to freshen it up.
Storage tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The kale won’t wilt like lettuce, so it stays crisp and flavorful.
If you need to freshen it up, add a splash of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil before serving. Avoid freezing, as it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Southern farewell
There’s something special about a recipe that’s both simple and full of flavor. This Kale Salad with Lemon and Parmesan brings a little brightness to the table while keeping that Southern spirit alive.
Whether you’re sharing it at a family meal or just making a quick lunch, it’s a dish you’ll want to come back to. Y’all enjoy now and don’t forget to pass the bowl around.
Kale Salad with Lemon and Parmesan
Equipment
- Large bowl
- Small bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 large bunch kale stems removed and leaves chopped
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice about 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup toasted almonds sliced or chopped
- Lemon zest optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Wash the kale leaves and pat them dry. Remove the stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Place the chopped kale in a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, add the lemon juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk the mixture until everything blends together into a smooth dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the chopped kale. Use clean hands to gently massage the kale for 1 to 2 minutes. This softens the leaves and makes them easier to eat.
- Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and toasted almonds over the salad. Use a spoon or your hands to mix everything together well.
- Transfer the salad to a serving dish. If you like, add a little lemon zest on top for extra flavor. Serve fresh and enjoy!
