This simple Kale salad recipe was created by the Minimalist Baker. It is vegan and gluten-free. The tahini-lemon dressing adds the tang and the crunchy pecans make this a seriously satisfying meal.

Ingredients

3 medium leeks (ends trimmed, sliced lengthwise then chopped, thoroughly rinsed, and dried)

1 medium beet (rinsed clean, dried, and quartered – remove any rough skin)

1-2 Tbsp olive oil

1/4 tsp each salt and pepper

1/2 cup green lentils (rinsed clean)

1 cup vegetable stock (or sub water)

4 big handfuls kale, baby spinach, or spring greens

Tahini Dressing

1/4 cup tahini (sesame seed paste)

1/2 medium lemon (juiced)

2 Tbsp maple syrup (or sweetener of choice)

3-4 Tbsp good olive oil

1 pinch each salt and pepper

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (204 C) and lightly grease a baking sheet.

Once thoroughly rinsed, add lentils and stock or water to a small saucepan and bring to a rapid simmer over medium-high heat. Then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes uncovered or until all liquid is absorbed. Set aside.

Add chopped leeks and beets to the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat. Then bake for 15-20 minutes or until fragrant and lightly browned. For crispier beets, remove leeks from pan and continue roasting beets for an additional 10-15 minutes (I prefer mine crispier). Set aside.

While veggies and lentils are cooking, prepare dressing by adding all ingredients to a mixing bowl and whisking to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

If using kale, add to large mixing bowl with a bit of olive oil and lemon juice and massage with hands to soften. For all other greens, skip this step.

Add greens, beets, leeks, and lentils to a large mixing bowl, add dressing and toss to coat. For additional protein / crunch, add your favorite nut or seed (such as lightly salted sunflower seeds or roasted pecans)