Low in calories, rich in flavor, and off the charts in health benefits, kale is one of those superfoods that will still be left standing long after its other trendy companions have faded away. Steamed, sautéed, or raw, it’s an easy choice for active women looking for maximum nutrition in every meal.
“Kale is loaded with antioxidants, helps support your cardiovascular system, and is richer per calorie in iron than beef,” says NPC bikini competitor Siliana Gaspard, who often makes this salad by mixing kale with lean proteins and healthy fats.
Feel free to play with substitutions, such as swapping chicken for turkey or walnuts for sunflower seeds, to create a perfectly balanced, quick lunch or light supper.
Ingredients: • 2 cups kale, washed and roughly chopped • ¼ cup garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained • 2 tbsp avocado, chopped • 1 handful alfalfa sprouts or pea shoots • 1 carrot, chopped • 1 Persian cucumber, chopped • ½ red pepper, chopped • 1 tbsp sunflower seeds • ½ apple, chopped • 3 oz sliced turkey • 1 tbsp lemon balsamic vinaigrette
Lemon Balsamic Vinaigrette • ½ tbsp olive oil • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar • 1 tsp mustard • ½ lemon, juiced • Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions: Combine all salad ingredients in a large mixing bowl. In a separate small bowl, whisk together vinaigrette ingredients. Toss salad with dressing and dig in!
