Kale Taco Salad with Crispy Quinoa

A crunchy, protein-packed, flavor-loaded salad that’s perfect for healthy lunches or light dinners!

🕒 Time & Servings

• Prep: 15 minutes

• Cook: 20 minutes

• Serves: 2–3

• Diet: Vegetarian, High-Fiber, Gluten-Free

🛒 Ingredients

For the Crispy Quinoa:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa (cooled & dry)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ tsp paprika

• ½ tsp cumin

• ¼ tsp garlic powder

• Salt to taste

For the Salad:

• 3 cups kale, chopped (stems removed)

• ½ tsp olive oil (for massaging kale)

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ cup corn (fresh or roasted)

• ½ cup black beans, rinsed

• ½ avocado, sliced

• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

Optional Protein:

• Grilled chicken

• Tofu cubes

• Chickpeas

• Shrimp

Taco Lime Dressing:

• 3 tbsp Greek yogurt or vegan mayo

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp lime juice

• ½ tsp cumin

• ½ tsp chili powder

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• Salt & pepper to taste

• 1–2 tbsp water (to thin)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Make Crispy Quinoa

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).

2. Toss cooked quinoa with olive oil, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and salt.

3. Spread on a baking tray.

4. Bake for 18–20 minutes, stirring halfway, until crispy.
   (Or pan-fry on medium heat until golden and crunchy.)

Step 2: Prep Kale

• Place kale in a bowl.

• Add olive oil and salt.

• Massage with hands for 1–2 minutes until soft.

Step 3: Make Dressing

Whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble Salad

In a large bowl, combine:

• Kale

• Tomatoes

• Corn

• Black beans

• Red onion

• Avocado

Top with crispy quinoa and drizzle dressing on top.

🌮 Serving Ideas

• Add crushed tortilla chips

• Sprinkle feta or cotija cheese

• Serve with lime wedges

❓ Q & A

Q1: Can I use another green instead of kale?

Yes! Spinach, romaine, or mixed greens work well.

Q2: Can I air-fry the quinoa?

Yes! Air-fry at 180°C (350°F) for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway.

Q3: How do I store this?

• Salad (without dressing): 2–3 days in fridge

• Crispy quinoa: Store separately in airtight container

Q4: Is this good for weight loss?

Yes! High fiber, plant protein, and healthy fats keep you full.

Q5: Can I make it vegan?

Yes! Use vegan mayo or tahini instead of Greek yogurt.

Q6: Can I make it spicy?

Add jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce.

Q7: Can I meal prep this?

Absolutely—just keep quinoa and dressing separate.