Today, we’re delving into the world of vibrant salads with Terri Edwards’ Kale Quinoa Salad with Orange Miso Dressing. Join us as we explore this protein-packed dish bursting with flavor and wholesome goodness. You’ll find that not only is this salad easy to make, but its nutrient dense, bright and delicious. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Our journey with Terri Edwards began a few months ago when she reached out to me (Lauren) for a review article about Whole Harvest’s meal delivery service. Since then, we’ve had the pleasure of connecting with Terri, learning more about her mission to help people transition to a plant-based lifestyle, and falling in love with her delicious recipes. 

We chose this particular salad because, well, who can resist a bright citrus salad, especially one that’s as nutritious and flavorful as this? Steph declared she could eat it on repeat – and we couldn’t agree more. 

As always, we’re on the lookout for recipes that are easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and come together in a flash – and this salad ticks all the boxes.

Key Ingredients

Before we dive into the process, let’s take a quick peek at what goes into this delicious salad:

• Quinoa: This versatile grain not only adds a delightful texture but also boosts the protein content, making it a hearty and nutritious base for your salad.
• Fresh kale: Bursting with nutrients and rich in flavor, fresh kale serves as the star of this salad, providing a robust and healthy foundation.
• Broccoli slaw, purple cabbage, and shredded carrots: These colorful vegetables bring an irresistible crunch and vibrant hues, making every bite as visually appealing as it is delicious.
• Edamame beans: These tender beans elevate the salad’s protein profile, adding a satisfying and wholesome element to the mix.
• Mandarin oranges: Juicy and sweet, mandarin oranges infuse the salad with a refreshing burst of citrus flavor that brightens up every bite.
• Raisins and cranberries: These dried fruits offer a delightful contrast of flavors, introducing a sweet and tangy twist that perfectly complements the savory components.
• Orange juice and miso: This dynamic duo creates a zesty, umami-packed dressing, infusing the salad with a rich and tangy flavor that ties all the ingredients together beautifully.

Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in enhancing both the flavor profile and the nutritional value of the salad. Quinoa provides a hearty base, while kale offers a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. The addition of colorful vegetables and fruits not only adds visual appeal but also contributes essential nutrients like fiber and antioxidants. The miso and orange juice dressing ties everything together with its tangy sweetness and savory depth.

The Process

Prepare yourself for a salad-making adventure that’s as easy as it is delicious. 

Start by cooking your quinoa according to the package instructions. While that’s simmering away, give your kale a little TLC by massaging it with orange juice and salt until it’s tender and flavorful. 

Next, whip up your miso dressing by combining all the dressing ingredients in a bowl or a mason jar and giving them a good shake. 

Finally, toss everything together – the quinoa, kale, veggies, fruits, and dressing – and voila! Your vibrant, nutrient-packed salad is ready to be devoured.

The Verdict

In summary, Terri Edwards’ Kale Quinoa Salad with Orange Miso Dressing is a shining example of simplicity and flavor done right. It’s beginner-friendly, quick to make, and bursting with wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Whether you’re a kale connoisseur or a salad skeptic, this dish is sure to win you over with its fresh, vibrant flavors and satisfying textures. We’ll definitely be adding it to our regular rotation, and we encourage you to do the same!