Spicy Lemon-Maple Kale Salad with Dates and Almonds

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Ingredients:

  • 1 bunch of kale, large ribs removed

  • ½ tsp. lemon zest (optional)

  • juice of ½ lemon

  • 2 tsp. maple syrup

  • 1 clove garlic, minced

  • ⅛ tsp. salt

  • pinch of freshly ground black pepper

  • ¼ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes (add more for more spice; omit if desired)

  • 1 Tbs. olive oil

  • 6 dates, pitted and diced

  • 3 Tbs. sliced almonds, lightly toasted

Procedure:

Finely chop the kale and add to a large mixing bowl.  In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, maple syrup, garlic, salt, black pepper, crushed red pepper, and olive oil.  Pour dressing over kale and mix very well, using tongs or your hands to “massage” the leaves until they become tender and dark green.  Stir in the dates.  Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle with the toasted almonds (make sure to save this final step until just before serving).

Recipe adapted from: http://theclothesmakethegirl.com/2015/07/28/lemon-maple-kale-salad-dates-almonds/